Canada has more than 40 different immigration programs.
Some of the most common ways to apply for Canadian permanent residency include:
1. Express Entry:
The Express Entry system is an online application management system that manages applications for three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. To apply through Express Entry, you must create an online profile and enter the pool of candidates. If you meet the eligibility criteria AND you obtain the necessary score for selection, you may be invited to apply for permanent residency through one of the three programs. You can also be invited to apply for permanent residency by one of the Canadian provinces, who might become interested in you as a candidate for immigration to that province.
Here’s the tool that could help you to calculate your preliminary score for Express Entry. And here’s the list of the previous Express Entry selection scores.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residency who have the skills and experience required to contribute to their local economy. Almost every Canadian province and territory has its own PNP, with specific eligibility criteria and application processes. In general, the PNP programs could be divided into three categories:
3. Immigration Pilots:
From time to time, Canada comes up with a pilot program that is aimed to address specific country needs when it comes to immigration. All programs are announced here.
4. Family Sponsorship:
Canadian citizens and permanent residents may be able to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, dependent child, parent, or grandparent for permanent residency in Canada. This is the second popular immigration program in Canada.
5. Business Immigration:
Individuals who have experience running a business and are interested in investing in Canada may be eligible for permanent residency through one of several business immigration programs. Canada currently doesn’t have a federal business immigration. Therefore, each Canadian province has established their own business immigration stream.