Why apply for a Canada PR?

Canada is on track to welcome over 1 million new immigrants by 2027, reflecting its strong commitment to growth and diversity. In 2024 alone, Canada admitted approximately 450,000 new permanent residents, underscoring the country’s ongoing need for skilled workers, family reunification, and humanitarian immigrants.
 

Looking ahead, the Canadian government plans to increase immigration targets significantly. In 2025, more than 520,000 new permanent residents are expected to arrive, with annual targets continuing to rise through 2026 and 2027. These ambitious plans are part of Canada’s strategy to address labor shortages, support economic development, and enrich multicultural communities.
 

Obtaining Canada PR grants you the legal right to live, work, and study anywhere in the country indefinitely. PR holders benefit from access to healthcare, social services, and legal protections under Canadian law. Additionally, permanent residency serves as the most straightforward pathway to Canadian citizenship, usually after residing in Canada for at least three out of five years.
 

With the growing number of immigrants welcomed each year, Canada remains a top destination for individuals seeking new opportunities, safety, and a high quality of life. The Canada PR visa opens doors to a wide range of rights and opportunities, making it an attractive option for people worldwide who want to build a future in Canada.
 

• Canada plans to welcome over 1 million new immigrants by 2027
• Canada aims to welcome over 520,000 new permanent residents in 2025
• Gain the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
• Secure healthcare and social benefits with Canadian PR status
• Easiest Pathway to Canadian Citizenship
   

*Want to apply for a Canada PR visa? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.
 

What is a Canada PR Visa?

A Canada PR (Permanent Residency) Visa grants immigrants the legal right to live, study, and work in Canada indefinitely. It serves as a key step toward becoming a Canadian citizen. Holders gain access to healthcare, social benefits, and protection under Canadian law.
 

In 2024, Canada welcomed approximately 450,000 new permanent residents. This reflects the country's ongoing need for skilled workers, family reunification, and humanitarian immigrants. Looking ahead, Canada plans to welcome over 1 million new immigrants by 2027. In 2025 alone, more than 520,000 new permanent residents are expected. This growth highlights Canada’s role as a global leader in immigration and its dedication to economic growth and cultural diversity.
 

Canada PR holders enjoy many benefits. They have the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the country. They can sponsor family members and travel internationally without visa restrictions. PR status also provides a straightforward path to Canadian citizenship, usually after living in Canada for at least three out of five years.
 

In summary, a Canada PR Visa is more than just a residency permit. It opens the door to many rights and opportunities, making it an attractive option for immigrants worldwide who want to build a new life in Canada.
 

Do's and Don'ts of Canada PR

Dos	Don'ts
Do maintain your PR card validity by renewing it before expiration.	Don’t stay outside Canada for more than 730 days within a 5-year period, or you risk losing your PR status.
Do keep your personal information updated with IRCC, including address and contact details.	Don’t commit any criminal offenses that could jeopardize your permanent resident status.
Do fulfill your residency obligations to maintain eligibility for citizenship.	Don’t ignore official communications from immigration authorities.
Do apply for Canadian citizenship once eligible to enjoy full rights.	Don’t work without a valid work permit if your PR application is still in process.
Do carry your PR card when traveling to ensure smooth re-entry into Canada.	Don’t provide false information or fraudulent documents in your immigration applications.
Do learn about Canadian laws, culture, and rights to integrate successfully.	Don’t miss deadlines for submitting required documents or applications.
Do seek professional advice if you face legal or immigration issues.	Don’t rely solely on unofficial sources for immigration information; always check IRCC updates.

 

*Looking to apply for Canada immigration? Y-Axis is here to guide you with the process.
 

Can Immigrants Become Permanent Residents of Canada?

Immigrants can become permanent residents through various immigration programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), family sponsorship, and other pathways. According to the most recent data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada admitted over 450,000 new permanent residents in 2024.
 

In 2024, Canada welcomed approximately 450,000 new permanent residents, reflecting its ongoing commitment to immigration. Looking ahead, Canada plans to welcome over 1 million new immigrants between 2024 and 2027. Specifically, the country aims to admit more than 520,000 new permanent residents in 2025, supporting economic growth and addressing demographic challenges. These ambitious targets demonstrate Canada’s role as a global leader in immigration and its dedication to fostering cultural diversity and economic development.
 

The diversity of pathways allows immigrants from various backgrounds—skilled workers, international students, entrepreneurs, and family members—to apply for permanent residency. This flexibility ensures that Canada continues to attract talent and strengthen its multicultural society.
 

Overall, becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a realistic goal for many immigrants, supported by clear programs, growing quotas, and ongoing government initiatives to streamline the immigration process.
 

*Looking to apply for Canada PR? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end support with the process.
 

Canadian Permanent Resident Vs. Canadian Citizenship

Canadian Permanent Residency and Canadian Citizenship both offer significant rights and privileges, but they differ in key aspects. Permanent residents can live, work, and study in Canada and access healthcare, but they cannot vote or hold certain government positions. Citizenship grants full political rights, including voting and obtaining a Canadian passport, along with protection from deportation. Typically, permanent residents are eligible to apply for citizenship after residing in Canada for at least three out of five years.
 

The difference between Canadian permanent residents and Canadian citizens is given in the table below:

Feature	Canadian Permanent Resident	Canadian Citizen
Right to live in Canada	Yes, you have the legal right to live anywhere in Canada.	Yes, full and unrestricted right to live anywhere in Canada.
Right to work and study	Yes, you can work and study throughout Canada without restrictions.	Yes, you can work and study anywhere in Canada freely.
Access to healthcare	Yes, you have access to Canada’s healthcare system.	Yes, you have full access to the healthcare system.
Voting rights	No, you cannot vote in Canadian elections.	Yes, you have the right to vote in all Canadian elections.
Eligibility for government jobs	Limited, some government jobs require citizenship.	Yes, eligible for all government jobs.
Canadian passport	No, you cannot obtain a Canadian passport.	Yes, you can get a Canadian passport.
Protection from deportation	No, you may lose status if residency requirements are not met.	Yes, you are protected from deportation.
Requirement to maintain status	Must meet residency obligations to keep PR status.	Not applicable, citizenship is permanent.
Pathway to citizenship	Yes, after fulfilling residency and other requirements, you can apply for citizenship.	Already a citizen with full rights.

 

Canada PR Process

The Canada PR process involves several key steps: determining your eligibility for immigration programs, gathering required documents (such as Educational Credential Assessment and language test results), creating an Express Entry profile or applying through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), submitting a complete PR application within the deadline, completing medical and security checks, and waiting for the application to be processed (typically around six months).
 

Popular pathways to obtain Canada PR include:
 

1. Canada Express Entry – It is a points-based system for skilled workers where candidates are ranked and highest scorers receive ITAs.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – It allows provinces to nominate candidates based on local labor market needs, either adding points to Express Entry profiles or enabling direct PR applications.
    

These pathways reflect Canada's focus on attracting skilled immigrants aligned with economic and regional needs.
 

Canada PR via Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system for skilled workers aiming to obtain permanent residency. It operates as a competitive, points-based system where candidates create an online profile and are assessed based on multiple factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency in English and/or French, and adaptability to Canadian life.
 

Once profiles are submitted, candidates are ranked according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which assigns points for each factor. The highest-ranking candidates are issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency during regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These draws typically occur every two weeks.
 

Express Entry manages applications for three main federal economic immigration programs:
 

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – It is aimed at international skilled professionals with foreign work experience.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – The program is for qualified tradespeople.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – It is aimed at individuals with Canadian work experience.
   

In 2024, Express Entry continued to be a crucial pathway for immigration to Canada, with the system inviting a significant number of candidates to apply for Canada PR. The process remains efficient, with most applications processed within six months from the date of submission after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
 

Express Entry is a popular points-based system for skilled workers. Candidates create an online profile and are ranked based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The highest-ranking candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for PR. In 2023, Express Entry invited over 100,000 candidates.
 

Candidates can improve their CRS scores by enhancing language test results, gaining additional work experience, obtaining a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, or securing a provincial nomination through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which adds 600 points to the CRS score.
 

Canada PR via PNP

The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces to nominate candidates based on local labor market needs. Nominees receive additional points in Express Entry or can apply directly for PR. PNPs are ideal for applicants with skills aligned to specific provinces. In 2024, PNPs accounted for approximately 30% of all PR admissions.
 

Below is a list of the Canadian Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
 

• Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
• Yukon Provincial Nominee Program (YPNP)
• Nunavut does not currently have a separate PNP but participates in federal immigration programs
   

Each program offers various streams tailored to meet the specific labor market needs and economic priorities of the respective province or territory. The PNP pathway is particularly beneficial for candidates who may not have a high enough Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to receive an ITA through Express Entry alone. By securing a provincial nomination, applicants improve their chances of success and can settle in a province that best matches their skills and career goals.
 

Furthermore, some provinces offer streams specifically for international students who have graduated from local institutions, allowing them to transition smoothly from study permits to permanent residency. This supports Canada’s goal of retaining talented graduates to contribute to its economy.
 

Canada PR Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for Canada PR depend on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and financial resources. Specifically, applicants usually need to:
 

• Meet the minimum CRS points (450-500) to be eligible for Canada PR via Express Entry.
• Meet minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores if applying through Express Entry.
• Satisfy individual Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) criteria if applying via PNP.
• Provide valid passports.
• Submit language test results (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French).
• Obtain Educational Credential Assessments (ECA) to verify foreign education equivalency.
• Demonstrate proof of funds.
• Undergo medical and security clearances.
   

*Want to check if you are eligible for Canada immigration? Avail Y-Axis Canada Immigration Points Calculator for FREE and instant results.
 

Canada PR Requirements

The documents required to apply for Canada PR are given below:
 

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifies your foreign education equivalency to Canadian standards.
• Language test results demonstrate your proficiency in English or French.
• Valid passports are necessary for identification and travel purposes.
• Proof of funds shows you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.
• Medical and security clearances ensure you meet health and safety requirements.
   

How to get a Canada Permanent Residency Visa?

Applying for a Canada Permanent Residency (PR) visa marks an important milestone for those looking to establish a new life in Canada, providing a wide range of advantages and opportunities for immigrants worldwide. Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the application process for Canada PR.
 

Step 1: Assess your eligibility for various immigration programs like Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Step 2: Collect all necessary documents, including your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), language proficiency test results, and valid identification.

Step 3: Create an Express Entry profile or apply through a PNP and await an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 4: Submit a fully completed PR application along with all required documents within the given deadline.

Step 5: Undergo medical examinations and security screenings, then wait for your application to be processed, usually within six months.
 

ECA – Educational Credential Assessment

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is a crucial step in the Canada PR application process for most economic immigration programs. It involves verifying that your foreign educational qualifications meet Canadian standards. This assessment ensures that your degrees, diplomas, or certificates are recognized and comparable to Canadian educational credentials, which is essential for earning points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) under Express Entry and for meeting eligibility criteria in various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
 

An approved organization, such as World Education Services (WES), conducts the ECA by evaluating your submitted academic documents and issuing a report that confirms their Canadian equivalency. This report is typically valid for 5 years from the date of issue and must be included with your PR application to demonstrate your education level.
 

Completing an ECA is important because it directly impacts your chances of successfully obtaining Canada PR. Higher educational qualifications can increase your CRS score, improving your ranking and likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Additionally, some PNP streams require proof of Canadian-equivalent education as part of their eligibility criteria.
 

By obtaining a valid ECA report, you not only fulfill a mandatory requirement but also strengthen your overall Canada PR application, helping you move closer to securing permanent residence status in Canada and enjoying the benefits it offers.
 

ECA fees

The fees for Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) can vary depending on the organization you choose and the level of service you require. The assessment fee ranges from CAD 200 to CAD 300. This fee covers the evaluation of your academic credentials to determine their equivalency to Canadian education standards.
 

The detailed breakdown of the ECA fees is given in the table below.

Factors	Fee ( in CAD)
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)	200 - 300
Additional Document Verification	50 - 100
Rush Processing (optional)	100 - 150

 

Benefits of Permanent Residency in Canada

Obtaining permanent residency in Canada offers numerous advantages that enhance your quality of life and provide security for you and your family. Here are the key benefits:
 

• Freedom to Live, Work, or Study Anywhere: Live, study, or work in any Canadian province or territory without restrictions.
• Access to Healthcare and Benefits: Enjoy Canada’s public healthcare and social support programs.
• Legal Protection: Your rights are protected under Canadian law.
• Family Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members to join you in Canada.
• Pathway to Citizenship: Permanent residency leads to Canadian citizenship eligibility.
• Visa-Free Travel: Travel internationally with ease and re-enter Canada conveniently.
• Integration Support: Access programs for language, employment, and community support.
   

Overall, holding a Canada PR visa opens the door to a stable, rewarding life with access to opportunities and benefits that support your personal and professional growth in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
 

Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

Canada offers abundant job opportunities, with over 1 million vacancies in 2024 across healthcare, technology, engineering, and skilled trades. The unemployment rate was about 5.2%, showing strong demand for international skilled workers. The average annual salary is around CAD 60,000, with employers often providing newcomer support like language training and credential recognition to aid workforce integration.
 

The high paying jobs in Canada are given in the table below.

Occupations	Average Salaries per year
Engineering	$125,541
IT	$101,688
Marketing & Sales	$92,829
HR	$65,386
Healthcare	$126,495
Teachers	$48,750
Accountants	$65,386
Hospitality	$58,221
Nursing	$71,894

 

IT Jobs in Canada

The IT sector in Canada is rapidly expanding, with high demand for skilled professionals in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and cloud computing. Major tech hubs like Toronto and Vancouver offer competitive salaries and growth opportunities. The industry emphasizes innovation and diversity. Salaries for IT professionals average CAD 70,000 to CAD 100,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
 

The detailed list of top 10 IT job roles in Canada is given below.
 

IT Job Role	Average Annual Salary (CAD)
Software Engineer	$95,000
Web Developer	$70,000
Data Analyst	$75,000
Cybersecurity Specialist	$90,000
Network Administrator	$65,000
Database Administrator	$80,000
Systems Analyst	$85,000
Cloud Solutions Architect	$110,000
IT Project Manager	$100,000
DevOps Engineer	$105,000

 

Total cost for Canada PR

The total cost for obtaining Canada PR typically ranges from CAD 2,500 to CAD 4,000, covering government fees, language tests, Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), medical exams, and settlement funds. Travel and living expenses are not included.
 

Detailed information about the total cost of Canada PR is given in the table below.

Factors	Approximate Fee (CAD)
Government Application Fees	1,325
Language Tests (IELTS/CELPIP)	200 - 300
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)	200 - 300
Medical Examination	100 - 300
Settlement Funds	* Single applicant: 2,340 CAD * Couple with no kids: 4,680 CAD * Couple with one kid: 5,285 CAD