Immigration programs

An overview of the most common pathways to Canadian permanent residence and citizenship. We summarize; we do not advise.

• Permanent residence

  Express Entry

  The federal system for managing permanent-residence applications from skilled workers. Top-ranked profiles receive Invitations to Apply.

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• Permanent residence

  Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  Provinces and territories nominate candidates whose skills meet local labour market needs. A nomination adds 600 CRS points if you're in Express Entry.

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• Permanent residence

  Family Sponsorship

  Canadian citizens and permanent residents 18 or older can sponsor close family members to immigrate. Spouses and dependent children get the fastest processing.

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• Temporary residence

  Study Permit

  Required for most international students enrolled in a program longer than 6 months at a Designated Learning Institution.

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• Temporary residence

  Work Permit

  Lets foreign nationals work in Canada legally. Two main streams: employer-specific (LMIA-based) and open (no employer tied).

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• Citizenship

  Canadian Citizenship

  Permanent residents who meet the residency, language, and tax requirements can apply to become Canadian citizens — and, after passing the test and oath ceremony, vote and hold a Canadian passport.

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