Canada is one of the most immigration-friendly countries in the world, offering a high quality of life, career opportunities, and a safe environment for families. If you are planning to apply for permanent residency in Canada, understanding the Canada PR Process will help you avoid mistakes and save time.
This guide explains step-by-step the Canada PR Process, required documents, costs, and answers to common questions.
Why choose Canada PR?
Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) gives you rights and benefits almost equal to those of Canadian citizens. With PR you can:
- Live, work and study anywhere in Canada without restrictions.
- Access to free health care and education for your family
- Bring your spouse and children with you as part of a dependent PR.
- Apply for Canadian citizenship after 3 years of residence in Canada.
- Enjoy security, stability and career opportunities in one of the best economies in the world.
Canada PR process step by step
The most popular path to PR is the Express Entry system, designed for skilled workers. Here’s how you can go through the process:
1. Apply for permanent residence in Canada through Express Entry
- Create an online Express Entry profile on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) portal.
- Provide details such as age, education, work experience and language skills.
- Based on your profile, you will receive a CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score.
- The applicants with the highest CRS scores are regularly invited to a draw.
Pro tip: You can improve your CRS score by retaking IELTS/CELPIP, gaining work experience or getting a provincial nomination.
2. Application for permanent residence
Once you have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit your PR application online. This is the most important stage, as incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
3. Fill out the application form
Fill in all the details carefully, including your personal background, travel history, family and previous education/work. Make sure that the information matches your documents.
4. Upload your documents
You will need to scan and upload the following documents
- Passport (valid and not expired)
- Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from WES or a similar institution
- Proof of professional experience (work references, salary, etc.)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements showing the minimum amount required)
- Medical examination certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Photographs that meet IRCC requirements
5. Paying the fees
Government fees include:
- Application processing fee: CAD 850 per adult
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 515 per adult
- Dependent child fee: CAD 230 per child
(Language tests, medical examinations and ECA fees are excluded)
6. Submit your application
Once you have completed the forms, uploaded the documents and paid the fees, you can submit your application online. Once submitted:
- You will receive an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR).
- You can track your application via your IRCC account.
- If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a PR visa stamped in your passport.
Canada PR processing time
- Express Entry: Usually takes 6–12 months after submission.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Can take 12–18 months depending on the province.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How many points do I need to apply for Canada PR?
A. You need at least 67 out of 100 points to qualify for Express Entry, and then a good CRS score (usually between 480and 510) to get an ITA.
Q. Can I apply without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply without a job offer. Many applicants receive PR based on education, work experience and language skills.
Q. What happens after I submit my PR application?
A. The IRCC will review your file, check documents and request biometric data. If your application is approved, you will receive your COPR and PR visa.
Q. What are the requirements for proof of funds?
For a single applicant, approximately $13,757 CAD is required, and the amount increases with the size of the family.
Why choose Step-Smith Immigration for Canada PR?
The Canada PR process requires expertise and attention to detail. Small mistakes can delay or even reject your application. That’s why expert advice is so important.
Step-Smith Immigration is one of the best immigration companies in India, trusted for its transparent process, high success rate, and personalized support. Their team helps you with:
- Creating your Express Entry profile.
- Improving CRS scores.
