Canada PR Process: Experts Latest Fast Track Guide for 2024

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Afreen Abbasi

Updated on

Dec 30,2024

Canada PR Process: Expert Guide for 2024 Immigration - TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
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Benefits of Canada PR

  • Freedom to Live, Work, and Study Anywhere: Hold unlimited travel and job opportunities in any province or territory of Canada as per the desires of a Permanent Resident.

  • Access to Universal Healthcare and Social Benefits: Permanent Residents of Canada gain access to its award-winning universal healthcare program as well as social benefits such as unemployment insurance, child support, and retirement pensions.

  • Pathway to Canadian Citizenship: Your Permanent Residency will give you another chance to become to become a Canadian citizen with the right to vote and take part in national governance.

  • Sponsorship for Family, Friends, or Workers: Once you are a permanent resident, you may be able to petition for certain family members to come to Canada with you.

  • Good quality of living along with opportunities all over the globe: Canada boasts of a free and inclusive atmosphere, internationally competitive educational systems, and viable economic opportunity, which makes it a top destination for immigrants worldwide. 

Thinking of making Canada your new home? Learn the Canada PR process, and let prospects shine brightly for you in the Great White North. Canada is one of the most immigration-friendly nations endowed with numerous immigration programs tailored for skilled professionals, international students, and family members. In this guide, we have covered almost everything about Canada PR process, Canada PR processing time, Canada PR process from India, Canada PR process step by step & more. However, let's explore everything you need to know about the Canada PR process to kickstart your journey.

Facts and Figures:

  • Canada has set a target of welcoming 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024.

  • Express Entry draws will now highlight certain occupations and skill sets.

  • A new NOC 2021 system was established for immigration programs.

  • Post-pandemic recovery has helped shorten processing times for some programs.

  • Introduction of measures to aid international students in switching to PR in Canada.

  • The minimum CRS score for Express Entry has varied considerably.

  •  There are new changing language requirements for certain immigration paths.

  •  New pathways for essential workers and international graduates have been integrated. 

Understanding the Canada PR Process

Permanent residence in Canada provides individuals with indefinite rights to live, work or study anywhere within its folds. It opens up numerous benefits, including access to health care, education, and applications for citizenship in the future. The Canada PR process generally requires a set of criteria to be fulfilled, followed by the application through the suitable programs, and then the required steps taken to ensure approval.

Also Read How to Become a Doctor in Canada? Experts Guide for 2024

Program Options for Engaging Canadian Immigration

Various immigration programs are available for Canadian immigration. Here are the details:

1. Express Entry

Among several systems for the permanent residency of skilled workers in Canada, Express Entry is one of the most popular and efficient. This is a point-based system ranking participants under a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on components like age, educational qualifications, work experience, and language skills. The process ensures that only the top candidates are invited to apply for PR.

Main Features of Express Entry:

  • Rapid Processing: The processing time is generally six months after submission and in some cases can be shorter.

  • No Job Offer Required: Usually, most applicants are eligible without a job offer from within Canada.

  • Global Access: Open to skilled workers worldwide.

Sub-programs under Express Entry:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

  • For skilled people with at least one year of continuous full-time work experience.
  • Minimum language standards and educational qualifications must be met.

2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

  • Target skilled trades applicants with qualifications in any construction, maintenance, or manufacturing fields.
  • A valid job offer or certificate of qualification is a must.

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

  • For persons who already have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada.
  • Suitable for international graduates and temporary workers. 

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program permits Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals according to local labor market requirements. Every province develops its own PNP streams tailored to particular employment needs and demographic goals.

PNP Advantages:

  • Targeted Opportunities: Designed specifically for individuals whose skill sets are quite in demand in a targeted area.

  • Extra CRS Points: With the provincial nomination, one is provided with 600 CRS points, which guarantees an invitation to apply for a permanent residency.

  • Different Streams: Streams apply to any different group, including skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates.

Popular PNP Streams:

  •  Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) targets tech workers in healthcare and other in-demand occupations.

  •  The British Columbia PNP targets skilled trades and healthcare.

  •  Alberta Advantage Immigration Program: gives priority to candidates with a connection to Alberta or who have skills in demand locally. 

3. Family Sponsorship

This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their families together. It permits qualified family members to acquire permanent residency and settle down in Canada.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

  • Spouse, Common-law Partner, or Conjugal Partner: Applicants must prove the authenticity of the relationships.

  • Dependent Children: Biological or adopted children under 22 years of age.

  • Parents and Grandparents: Through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), sponsors must demonstrate financial ability.

  • Other Relatives: In some very particular cases, siblings, nieces, or nephews come under this category.

Key Requirements:

  •  The financial capability of the Sponsor.

  •  Sponsored family members must not have a criminal record and not constitute a security risk. 

4. Start-Up Visa

The Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones. It is a program under which eligible family members can qualify to become a permanent residents and establish their lives in Canada.

  •  Spouse, Common-law Partner, or Conjugal Partner: Applicants must prove the genuine nature of their relationship.

  •  Dependent Children: Biological or adopted children below the age of twenty-two.

  •  Parents and Grandparents: This is done via the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). The sponsors must meet financial requirements.

  •  Other Relatives: In this context, siblings, nieces, or nephews may sometimes qualify.

Major Requirements:

  •  The sponsor should have the capacity to support the sponsored immigrant financially.

  •  The sponsored family members should not have any criminal convictions or pose security risks. 

Also Read: Multiple Entry Visa Canada: Latest Requirements & Fees 2024

Canada PR Process Step-by-Step

Here is the detailed Canada PR process step by step:

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Eligibility depends on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Program

Eligibility Criteria

Express Entry (FSWP)

Minimum 67 points under the eligibility grid.

PNP

Province-specific requirements.

Family Sponsorship

Sponsored by a Canadian citizen or PR holder.

 

Step 2: Select a Suitable Immigration Program

Choosing the right program is key. Some points you must examine:

  • Skills: Is your occupation on Canada's demand list?

  • Location: Are you willing to go to specific provinces?

  • Because of an established family member, can you be sponsored?

Step 3: Get the Required Kinds of Documents

Make sure you gather all your documents:

  • Passport and travel documents.

  • Educational credentials (ECA report).

  • Language proficiency test results.

  • Proof of work experience.

Step 4: Language Tests

Language proficiency is of utmost importance under Express Entry and other programs.

The tests that are accepted are IELTS, CELPIP for English, and TEF Canada for French. 

Test

Minimum Required Score

IELTS

CLB 7 for Express Entry.

CELPIP

CLB 7.

TEF Canada

CLB 7 in French.

 

Step 5: Get Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

  • An ECA equation is thus required to match foreign degrees with a Canadian counterpart.
  • Approved Organizations are WES, IQAS, CES, ICES, and MCC.

Step 6: Calculate Your CRS Score

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assesses each candidate's qualifications based on its system of points. Candidates get points based on age, education, work experience, language ability and adaptability. 

Factor

Points

Age

Up to 110 points.

Education

Up to 150 points.

Work Experience

Up to 80 points.

Language Proficiency

Up to 136 points.

 

Step 7: Establish an Express Entry Profile

The profile just shall encompass all necessary details and documents on the official Canadian immigration platforms.

Step 8: Invitation to Apply (ITA)

The highest-ranking candidates in Express Entry draws are issued an ITA. Once ITA enters your territory, you are given a deadline of 60 days to submit your PR application.

Step 9: Submission of Your PR Application

Submit the complete pile of documents: police certificates, medical examinations, and evidence of funds. 

Also Read Banking Jobs in Canada for Indian Immigrants: Latest Insight

Latest Canada PR Processing Time

Canada PR process and Canada PR processing time depend on the program and application completeness.

Program

Processing Time

Express Entry

6 months.

PNP

6-12 months.

Family Sponsorship

12 months.

 

Canada PR Process from India

Step

Details

Tips for Indian Applicants

1. Check Eligibility

Determine your eligibility for immigration programs like Express Entry or PNP using online tools.

Use Canada’s online eligibility tool to assess your score for Express Entry or Provincial Nomination Programs.

2. Choose Immigration Pathway

Select the right program (e.g., Express Entry, PNP, Family Sponsorship) based on your qualifications.

Focus on Express Entry if you are a skilled worker or PNP for region-specific opportunities.

3. Take Language Tests

Complete IELTS (General Training) or CELPIP to meet minimum language requirements.

Aim for CLB 9 or above to maximize CRS points for Express Entry.

4. Get Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Submit your academic qualifications to authorized agencies (like WES) for validation.

Ensure all transcripts are complete and submitted promptly to speed up the process.

5. Create an Express Entry Profile

Register online and provide details like education, work experience, and language test scores.

Double-check all details for accuracy to avoid profile rejection.

6. Calculate CRS Score

Your CRS score determines your rank in the Express Entry pool.

Explore ways to boost your CRS score, such as improving language scores or gaining a provincial nomination.

7. Wait for ITA

Invitations to Apply (ITA) are issued in Express Entry draws based on CRS scores.

Stay updated on recent draw results and cut-off scores to anticipate your chances.

8. Submit PR Application

After receiving an ITA, submit your PR application along with supporting documents.

Keep all documents, including medical and police clearance certificates, ready to avoid delays.

9. Medical and Background Checks

Undergo medical examinations and background verification as part of the process.

Choose panel physicians approved by Canada’s immigration authorities for medical exams.

10. Receive Confirmation of PR (COPR)

If approved, you’ll receive your COPR, allowing you to finalize your move to Canada.

Plan your move within the validity of the COPR and prepare for settlement in Canada.

11. Land in Canada

Upon arrival, complete immigration formalities and officially become a Permanent Resident.

Ensure you carry all required documents, including your COPR and proof of funds, for smooth processing at the border.

Indian applicants are among the top immigrants to Canada, thanks to strong cultural ties and favourable policies. The Canada PR process from India is as follows :

Experts Tips for a Successful Canada PR Application

The most important part of the Canada PR process is the Canada PR Application:

1. Know the Principles of Eligibility

Research and become completely diligent in pursuing various immigration programs such as Express Entry, PNP, and Family Sponsorship. Knowing the criteria will greatly inform your choice of a suitable pathway for your profile.

2. Get Your CRS Score to Maximise

Efforts to improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score focused on language tests, work experience, or provincial nomination.

3. Completing the Documentation in the Correct Manner

All documents submitted, including educational credentials, work experience letters, and proof of funds, must be accurate and form set out. Incomplete and wrong submissions can lead to delays or absolute rejections.

4. Prepare for Language Tests

Score as high as you can in your IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada to acquire more CRS points. You may want to think about taking preparatory courses or mock tests to improve your scores.

5. Monitor Immigration Draws and Changes

Keep an eye on Express Entry draws and PNP draws to understand CRS cut-off trends. Stay updated on any changes to the policies, as Canada keeps updating its immigration rules and processes.

6. Seek Professional Advice When Necessary

If you're confused about any part of the process, go ahead and consult with immigration experts or lawyers. They would help you cross some difficult paths like ECA, document verification or dealing with certain complications.

7. Be Patient and Persistent

It can, in fact, take a long time for the Canada PR process to complete as the waiting span varies with the different programs. So always exercise your best patience in making frequent follow-ups whenever necessary, besides keeping your profile active in the Express Entry pool. 

Also Read: Digital Nomad Visa Canada: Experts Complete Guide 2024

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them?

Here are some common challenges and possible solutions:

1. Challenge: Low CRS score
Solution: Application through PNP can help boost the score.

2. Challenge: Missing documents

 Solution: Use a checklist to keep track of required documents.

After Receiving PR: What's Next?

Congratulations! You may now settle down in Canada, search for job opportunities, and take advantage of healthcare, education, and all other benefits the country has to offer. 

Conclusion

To summarise, the Canada PR process is a well-structured pathway for those hoping to begin a brand new life in one of the world’s most friendly nations. Multiple immigration programs cater to various needs, so you must understand your eligibility criteria, assemble documentation according to requirements, and follow the steps with due diligence. This journey to India embodies growth in personal experience, career advancement, and a better-quality life. Apply today, and take a step closer to realizing your Canadian dream! 

Looking for more insights on immigration and residency options? Discover TerraTern for expert guidance on various pathways and opportunities. Start your journey today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Canada PR process take?

The process typically takes 6–12 months, depending on the immigration program and application completeness.

Can I apply for Canada PR without a job offer?

Yes, many programs, like Express Entry, do not require a job offer.

What is the minimum CRS score required for Canada PR?

The minimum CRS score varies by draw but is generally around 450–500 points.

How can I improve my chances of getting Canada PR?

Boost your CRS score by improving language test results, gaining more work experience, or securing a PNP nomination.

Is it possible to apply for Canada PR from outside the country?

Yes, you can complete the entire application process online from your home country.