Federal programs apply throughout Canada and are managed by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Provincial programs (PNP) are administered by individual provinces to attract workers, entrepreneurs, or specialists needed in the local labour market.
Yes. For example, you can have an active Express Entry profile while participating in a provincial program. It is important to ensure you meet the requirements of each stream.
Yes. The federal stage is mandatory. If your documents are incomplete, incorrect, or there are concerns regarding security, health, or the truthfulness of information, your permanent residence (PR) application may be refused.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based system used to assess Express Entry candidates. Factors include age, education, language skills, work experience, Canadian experience, job offer, provincial nomination, second official language proficiency, and family status.
Theoretically, over 600 points, considering both core points and additional points for a provincial nomination, job offer, Canadian education, etc.
Yes. You can update your profile, for example, by adding new language test results, additional education, or work experience. This may increase your CRS score and chances of receiving an invitation.
IRCC may conduct targeted draws based on specific criteria (e.g., STEM occupations, French language ability, healthcare fields), prioritizing candidates with relevant education or experience.
A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an invitation at the federal Express Entry stage.
Yes, with the exception of Quebec and Nunavut. Quebec operates its own independent immigration system.
Mobility rights are guaranteed by the Canadian Constitution. However, if you obtained PR through a provincial program, you are expected to reside for a reasonable period in the nominating province.
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirms that an employer could not find a Canadian worker for the position, allowing them to hire a foreign worker. In most cases, an LMIA is required for job offers and closed work permits.
An open work permit does not provide additional CRS points for a job offer but allows you to gain Canadian work experience, which contributes to your CRS score.
Yes. Foreign work experience can be included in CRS calculations if properly documented.
An official employer letter indicating your position, detailed job duties, period of employment, type of employment (full-time/part-time), and salary.
Yes, if the work experience is outside of Canada (for Express Entry). To prove it – a comprehensive package is required: contracts, bank statements, tax reports, advertising materials, and proof of business activity.
You may submit a Letter of Explanation (LoE) with alternative evidence such as affidavits, bank statements, or client testimonials.
A multi-level security screening conducted by CBSA and CSIS to determine if the applicant poses a risk to Canada. The process can take several months to over a year.
Yes. Applicants whose health conditions may place an excessive burden on the Canadian healthcare system may be refused.
After receiving a request from IRCC. It is recommended to use only designated panel physicians.
Yes. Official or notarized translations into English or French are mandatory.
Language test results are valid for two years from the test date.
Time-range varies. For example, within Express Entry – you have 60 days to submit your electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR).
Yes. You can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children under 22, provided they meet eligibility criteria.
Yes. Many applicants apply for PR while in Canada on a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa.
Express Entry: approximately 6 months.
PNP: up to 18 months.
Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C): can take over 2 years.
You may submit a new application or appeal the decision through an administrative appeal or judicial review, depending on the circumstances.
The Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) program is an exceptional pathway to PR for individuals who do not qualify under standard programs but face unique circumstances such as integration in Canada, best interests of children, risk upon return, or critical health conditions.
Individuals without status, asylum seekers, holders of temporary permits, or those in Canada facing special situations. Applications are generally allowed only from within Canada, often with no valid status.
Yes. In most cases, applicants may remain in Canada until a final decision is made. However, the ability to work or access healthcare depends on having the appropriate permits.
Between 18 to 36 months, depending on case complexity and IRCC workloads.
Yes, but only if new, significant circumstances have arisen that were unknown at the time of the previous application.
Individuals facing persecution based on race, religion, political opinion, social group, or with a well-founded fear for their life in their country of origin.
Yes, after applying and passing initial security screenings, you may obtain a work permit.
An evaluation of risks before removal from Canada for individuals whose asylum claims were refused but who may face danger upon return.
Canadian citizens or permanent residents with sufficient financial capacity and no significant criminal or immigration violations.
A spouse, common-law partner, dependent children under 22, parents, and grandparents (through specific programs).
Only in very limited situations, such as when they are orphaned, under 18, and not under parental care.
Yes, through the In-Canada Sponsorship program. There is also an Outland Sponsorship option for those residing outside Canada.
Spousal sponsorship: approximately 12 months.
Parent or grandparent sponsorship: over 24 months, depending on the program.
Temporary residents are individuals in Canada on visitor, student, or work visas. Permanent residents have the right to live, work, and study without restrictions.
In certain cases, yes, but the process is complex and requires meeting specific conditions and applying for the appropriate permits.
A mechanism to restore your status within 90 days after it expires due to overstaying or violating conditions.
Not always. Some permits can be obtained from within Canada; others require applying from abroad.
CUAET is a temporary protection program for Ukrainians that allows work or study. Holders can apply for immigration programs in parallel if they meet the eligibility requirements.
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit for international graduates of Canadian educational institutions. It allows work for any employer without location or occupation restrictions.
International students who:
The permit itself does not, but work experience gained under PGWP – not during FT study – counts towards Canadian Experience Class and increases CRS points.
No. PGWP is granted only once in a lifetime, even if you complete multiple programs.
Yes. Only studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with PGWP eligibility qualify. The list of DLIs is available on the IRCC website.
Applicants with an innovative business idea who:
The Self-Employed Program does not require investment or job creation but candidates must prove success in sports, culture, or arts and intend to pursue such work in Canada.
Yes. Many provinces offer their own business streams, such as:
No. Most programs include a conditional stage (temporary visa or permit), after which PR can be applied for upon successful implementation of the business plan.
It depends on the program. For example:
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