- Canada’s welcoming environment, diverse culture, and robust economy make it an attractive destination for individuals seeking to settle abroad. If you’re considering making Canada your permanent home, you’ll be pleased to know that the Canadian government offers a streamlined process for applying for Permanent Residence (PR) even if you’re currently residing outside the country. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps and requirements for applying for permanent residence in Canada from abroad.
how To Apply For Permanent Residence In Canada From Outside Canada
- Choose the Right Immigration Pathway: Before you begin the application process, it’s essential to determine the most suitable immigration pathway for your situation. Canada offers various immigration programs, including the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Family Sponsorship, and more. Each program has its specific eligibility criteria, so it’s crucial to choose the one that aligns with your qualifications and circumstances.
- Gather Required Documents: Once you’ve identified the immigration program that suits you best, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents. These documents typically include:
- Passport and travel history
- Language proficiency test results (such as IELTS or CELPIP)
- Educational credentials (diplomas, degrees, transcripts)
- Proof of work experience (reference letters, employment contracts)
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination results
- Proof of funds to support yourself and any dependents
- Create an Express Entry Profile (if applicable): For individuals applying through the Express Entry system, creating an online profile is the first step. The profile will include details about your education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors that contribute to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If your score is competitive, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in a subsequent Express Entry draw.
- Obtain Provincial Nomination (if applicable): If you’re applying through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you’ll need to apply to the specific province or territory and receive a nomination. A provincial nomination can significantly boost your CRS score, increasing your chances of receiving an ITA in the Express Entry draw.
- Submit Your Application: Once you’ve received an ITA or a provincial nomination, it’s time to submit your application for permanent residence. You’ll need to complete all the required forms accurately and pay the necessary application fees. Double-check that you’ve included all the required documents and forms to avoid processing delays.
- Biometrics and Medical Examination: In most cases, you’ll be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a local Application Support Center. Additionally, you and your family members may need to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician to ensure you meet health requirements.
- Wait for Application Processing: After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for it to be processed by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Processing times can vary based on factors such as the program you’re applying through, the volume of applications, and any additional verifications required.
- Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR): If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) along with a Permanent Resident Visa (if required). The COPR will outline the terms and conditions of your permanent residence.
- Travel to Canada: With your COPR and PR Visa in hand, you’re ready to make the exciting journey to Canada. Upon arrival, a Canadian immigration officer will finalize your PR status and issue your Permanent Resident Card (if applicable).
How can I apply for PR outside Canada?
There are two main ways to apply for permanent residence (PR) in Canada from outside the country:
- Express Entry: This is the most popular way to immigrate to Canada. You create an Express Entry profile and submit it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If you are selected, you will receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence. You can then submit your complete application online.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who they believe would be a valuable addition to their communities. If you are nominated by a province or territory, you will receive an ITA from IRCC and can then submit your complete application online.
In addition to these two main programs, there are also a number of other ways to apply for PR from outside Canada, such as:
- Family sponsorship: If you have a Canadian citizen or permanent resident relative, they may be able to sponsor you for PR.
- Investor programs: These programs allow individuals to invest a certain amount of money in Canada in exchange for PR status.
- Self-employed persons: If you are a self-employed person with experience in a field that is in demand in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for PR under the Self-Employed Persons Program.
The specific eligibility requirements for each program vary, so it is important to do your research and choose the program that is right for you. You can find more information about all of the immigration programs available to you on the IRCC website.
Here are the steps on how to apply for PR outside Canada:
- Choose an immigration program that you are eligible for.
- Create an Express Entry profile or apply to a PNP.
- If you are selected for an ITA, submit your complete application online.
- Pay the application fees.
- Provide the required documentation.
- Attend a medical exam and provide the results.
- Wait for a decision on your application.
The processing time for PR applications can vary depending on the program you are applying under. For Express Entry, the processing time is typically 6-12 months. For PNPs, the processing time can be longer, depending on the province or territory you are applying to.
If your application is approved, you will be issued a visa that will allow you to come to Canada and become a permanent resident. You will then be able to live, work, and study in Canada permanently.
Here are some additional tips for applying for PR outside Canada:
- Start your application early. The sooner you start, the sooner you will be able to come to Canada.
- Get help from a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant. They can help you with the application process and make sure that you are meeting all of the requirements.
- Be prepared to provide all of the required documentation. This documentation may include your educational transcripts, work experience certificates, language test results, and police certificates.
- Attend a medical exam and provide the results. This is a requirement for all PR applicants.
- Be patient. The processing time for PR applications can be long, so it is important to be patient and wait for a decision.
How long does it take to get PR in Canada?
The processing time for permanent residence (PR) in Canada can vary depending on the program you are applying under and the current demand for immigrants.
For Express Entry, the processing time is typically 6-12 months. However, it can be longer if your application is incomplete or if there are any problems with your documentation.
For PNPs, the processing time can be longer, depending on the province or territory you are applying to. For example, the processing time for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is typically 12-18 months.
If you are applying through family sponsorship, the processing time can be even longer, up to 24 months or more.
Here is a table of the average processing times for PR applications in Canada:
| Program | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Express Entry | 6-12 months |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 12-18 months (or longer) |
| Family sponsorship | 24 months (or more) |
It is important to note that these are just average processing times. Your actual processing time may be longer or shorter, depending on the factors mentioned above.
If you are applying for PR in Canada, it is important to start the process early and be patient. The processing time can be long, but it is worth it in the end to be able to call Canada your home.
Here are some additional tips for speeding up the processing of your PR application:
- Make sure that your application is complete and that all of the required documentation is submitted.
- Get help from a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant. They can help you with the application process and make sure that you are meeting all of the requirements.
- Be prepared to pay the application fees.
- Be patient. The processing time for PR applications can be long, but it is important to be patient and wait for a decision.
Conclusion
Applying for permanent residence in Canada from outside the country might seem like a complex process, but with the right information and proper preparation, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Remember to carefully follow the steps outlined in this guide, gather all the required documents, and choose the immigration pathway that aligns with your goals. As you embark on this journey, you’re one step closer to becoming a permanent resident of the Great White North and enjoying all that Canada has to offer.