Canada Permanent Resident Visa

Canada PR enjoy several privileges and rights just like Canadian citizens. Canada Permanent Resident Visa status allows you to work, live, and study anywhere in Canada. It is an attractive option for those looking to start a new life in the country. The process of applying for a Canada PR visa can be quite complex, and it is important to make sure that all of the necessary documents and information are included in the application.

To make the process easier, there are several resources available to help applicants, such as online guides and immigration consultants. Additionally, you must provide any relevant documents that demonstrate your skills and experience.

Table of Content

What is Canada PR?
Canada PR Visa
Why apply for Canada PR?
Canada PR Visa Eligibility Requirements
How Canada PR Process Works?
Immigration programs to go to Canada from India
How to apply for a Canada PR visa from India?
PR visa through Non-Express Entry process
Canada PR Processing time
Canada PR Visa Fees
How to check PR status?
Frequently Asked Questions

Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced the Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 on 1st November 2023.

In 2024, Canada is planning on welcoming 485,000 permanent residents to the country. And this number increases for the upcoming years of 2025 and 2026. IRCC will then be inviting 500,000 PRs on an annual basis.

Download Free Immigration and PR Guide PDF

What is Canada PR?

A Canada PR is a permanent residency status for eligible candidates from India and other nations, allowing them to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada. PR visa is a multiple-entry visa for Canadian immigration by enables individuals to travel in and out of Canada using a PR card. Students or international workers temporarily working in Canada are not permanent residents.

Once someone becomes a PR, they receive a PR card as proof of their permanent resident status in the country. After acquiring PR status, an individual can apply for Canadian citizenship once they have completed 3 years out of the 5-year requirement. The immigration process concludes when the person becomes a Canadian citizen.

Canada Permanent Resident Visa

A Canada Permanent Resident Visa is a multiple-entry visa that is valid for 5 years. Once an applicant’s PR application is approved, they are granted a Canadian PR visa. You can get this PR card after Canada Immigration from your home country.

A Canadian PR visa allows permanent residents to travel in and out of Canada. Canadian permanent residents can live, study, and work anywhere in the country. According to the Canadian government, when a Canadian permanent resident meets the eligibility criteria, they can also apply for Canadian citizenship.

Why apply for Canada PR?

Here are the top benefits of Canada PR visa or Permanent Residence:

1. Individuals can live, study, and work anywhere in Canada
2. Free education for children
3. An individual can sponsor their family member
4. Childcare benefits, pension plan, and other social benefits
5. Retirement benefits
6. Opportunities to start and invest in a business
7. Apply for Canadian citizenship after living in Canada for 3 out of 5 years
8. Earn 5-10 times of your current package

Canada Permanent Resident Visa Eligibility Requirements

The minimum Canada Permanent Resident Visa eligibility requirements criteria are based on the candidate’s:

  • Age: 18-35 is the best age group
  • Education: equal to or above higher secondary education
  • Language Proficiency: Above CLB level 7
  • Work experience: at least 1 year of work experience
  • Adaptability: one’s ability to adapt to life in Canada
  • Employment arrangement: must have a valid job offer

To be eligible for Canada PR, the applicant must score at least 67 points out of 100. Canada PR eligibility requirements are based on various criteria that score a candidate. These criteria and the maximum score a candidate can get are given below.

Eligibility CriteriaMax. Score
Age12
Language 28
Education25
Work Experience 15
Adaptability 10
Job Offer10

Documents for Canada Permanent Resident Visa

Here is the list of required documents needed for a permanent resident card or PR visa:

  • A valid Canadian passport or travel document
  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable) or Divorce or separation documents (if applicable)
  • Educational Documents such as Educational degrees, diplomas, certificates, and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report
  • Language Proficiency test results e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core, or TEF
  • Work Experience Documents such as Work experience letters or certificates from previous employers, Reference letters
  • Police Clearance Certificate
  • Medical Examination Report
  • Proof of Funds such as Bank statements or other financial documents to support yourself and your family in Canada
  • Express Entry Profile Information
  • Photographs in the form of Passport-sized meeting specific requirements
  • Valid job offer from a Canadian employer (if required for your immigration program)
  • Proof of Relationship to demonstrate your relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (for family sponsorship)
  • Other documents may be required.

How Canada Permanent Resident Visa Process Works?

The process of completing and submitting a Canada PR application is given below.

Follow the simple steps to get permanent residency in Canada.

  • Step 1- Take a Language Skill Exam and Get an (ECA)
  • Step 2- Create an Express Entry Profile
  • Step 3- Receive a CRS Score
  • Step 4- Wait for Latest Express Entry Draw
  • Step 5- Receive an ITA
  • Step 6- Submit the Completed PR Application

Step 1- Take a Language Skill Exam and Get an ECA

Before an applicant starts filling out the Canada Permanent Resident form, they must take a language test and prove that their international education is on par with the Canadian level. 

For these, the applicant needs to get a Language Proficiency Report and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). 

Step 2- Create an Express Entry Profile

Since the applicant now has the necessary documents, they should get ready to create an Express Entry profile. This profile will be used throughout the process. From getting an ITA to applying for PR. 

During the profile creation, the applicant will be providing personal information about themselves. This includes their educational background, work experience, age, language proficiency, and other information to calculate the candidate’s eligibility.

Step 3- Receive a CRS Score

When the applicant is done creating the profile, they will receive a CRS score. A Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score ranks the candidate based on various factors, such as education, age, experience, language skills, etc. 

This system scores their profile and ranks it within the Express Entry system. The higher one’s comprehensive ranking system (CRS) score is, the greater their chances of receiving an ITA will be within the Express Entry system. Now, if the Express Entry profile is eligible, it will be placed in the pool with other eligible profiles.

Step 4- Wait for Express Entry Draw

Now that the applicant’s profile is in the Express Entry pool, they should wait for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to conduct an Express Entry draw. IRCC holds these draws frequently to call for eligible candidates and grant them permanent residence. 

The draw issues Invitations to Apply (ITA) to eligible applicants. One of the main requirements of the draw is to rank above a certain CRS score that changes with each round of the draw. 

Step 5- Receive an ITA

If the applicant has the required  CRS score, and fulfills the other requirements, the candidate will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Once the applicant receives an ITA, they need to submit a completed PR application within 60 days. 

Step 6- Submit the Completed PR Application

All that’s left now is to fill out the permanent residency application. Along with the application, the candidate must upload necessary documents and provide the required information too. 

IRCC aims to process PR applications within 6 months. If the application is completed and documents are submitted properly, IRCC should be able to process the application on time. 

Next, let’s check out the Canadian permanent residency requirements a candidate must meet. 

Canada PR Process for Indian

To complete the Canadian PR process for Indian citizens through the Express Entry system, the Indian applicant must meet the requirements and eligibility criteria. After that, Indians can start applying for Canadian permanent residence.

This must have prompted a question in your mind, “What are the ways of immigrating to Canada from India?” Let’s answer it below.

Immigration programs to go to Canada from India

Here is the list of immigration programs by which a candidate goes to Canada from India:

1. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Indians can apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in case they have a lower CRS score and prefer to live in a certain province or territory of Canada. Each province/territory of Canada has its own PNP which offers a smoother Canada PR process from India.

Provincial Nominee Programs are conducted through IRCC for each province. These PNPs can also help you to get a permanent resident card.

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is one of the three Express Entry programs that may help you get Canada PR from India easily. All you need to do is create an Express Entry profile, be in the Express Entry pool, and wait for an Express Entry draw. 

Once you receive an ITA from the draw, which is held frequently, you’ll become eligible to apply for Canada PR from India. International students have higher chances of receiving ITA through this program.

Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a Canadian immigration pathway that offers a route to Permanent Residency (PR) for skilled tradespersons. To qualify, applicants must have a valid job offer in Canada or a Certificate of Qualification in a skilled trade issued by a Canadian province or territory.

Meeting language proficiency requirements is essential, and candidates should have at least two years of full-time work experience in the skilled trade within the last five years. Successfully securing PR through FSTP allows individuals to live and work in Canada, contributing their valuable skills to the Canadian workforce and economy.

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The CEC is a really easy way to immigrate to Canada from India. The applicant needs to have at least 12 months of full-time Canadian work experience. 

For Indian students studying in Canada, they can apply for a post-graduate work permit and get to work in Canada, which is a significant step in their journey through Canadian immigration. After they have gained the required Canadian work experience, they can apply for CEC.

4. Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)

The QSWP is another easy way to immigrate to Canada from India. One of the main requirements for this program is that the applicant must have excellent French language skills. 

Indians to live and work in Quebec can apply for QSWP. 

5. Family Class Sponsorship

Indians who have family members living in Canada as a citizens or permanent residents may get Canada PR from India through the Family Class Sponsorship. 

You can apply for Canada PR for your family members in and out of the country. Family Class Sponsorship also helps you to sponsor a common-law partner, but your common-law partner should be in relation or living with you for at least 12 consecutive months.

6. Business Immigration Program

Indians who aim to start or build their own business in Canada can apply for immigration through the business immigration program. 

The Indian applicant will first get a work permit if they qualify for this program, and then they can apply for Canada PR once they become eligible.

How to apply for a Canada Permanent Resident Visa from India?

Follow these steps to apply for a Canada PR from India through the Canadian immigration system:

1. First of all, check your eligibility score i.e., 67 Points are required to qualify
2. Apply for ECA which is necessary for students qualified from outside of Canada
3. Clear one English proficiency test such as IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE
4. Get a job offer from a Canadian employer
5. Apply through the Express Entry program to get PR in a short time (within 6 months)
6. Once you have applied, check for the draws and get ITA (Invitation to Apply)
7. After receiving an ITA, get all the documents and upload them.
8. Get ready for the medical examination (if required)
9. After completing all the steps you may be asked to submit your passport to the Canadian Embassy.

Note: These steps are also applicable to foreign nationals or international students.

How to Get Canada Permanent Resident Visa?

The process of ‘applying’ for Canada PR is different from ‘obtaining’ Canadian permanent residency. Here are 3 steps to obtaining Canadian PR:

1. Approval and Documentation: Once your PR application is approved, you’ll get a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) and a PRV (optional) on your passport.

2. Travel to Canada: You must travel to Canada before your CoPR expires to activate your PR status; If you miss the deadline, you may need to reapply for Canada PR.

3. Undergo a Health Examination: As part of the process, You need to undergo a health examination, provide a Canadian address, and obtain your PR card (if applicable).

How to maintain your PR visa status?

To maintain your PR status, you must continuously meet residency obligations. This includes renewing your PR card when needed and following Canadian laws, among other things.

After becoming a PR, you must meet residency requirements by spending specified time in Canada; if you don’t stay in Canada for at least 730 days out of 5 years it may affect your PR status. 

PR visa through Non-Express Entry process

Here you can check the process of Canada PR through the Non-Express Entry process:

Canada PR Processing time

The Canada PR visa processing time is usually between 5 to 8 months. But usually, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada aim to process the Express Entry applications within 6 months. 

Canada PR processing time may vary depending on various factors. If the applicant has submitted a completed application with all the documents attached properly, and fulfills all the requirements, their application may be processed faster. 

Canada PR Visa Fees

Canada PR visa application fee for ONE applicant may cost around CAD 2,500 / 1,51,800 INR. This visa application fee may change depending on various factors. 

  • Cost of Canada PR for ONE applicant: $2,250
  • Cost of Canada PR for couples without Kids: $4,500
  • Cost of Canada PR for Couple with ONE Kid: $4,930

Let’s break down this cost below. 

Cost of Canada PR for ONE applicant:

Canada PR application processing fee- $850

  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee- $515
  • Educational Credential Assessment- $300
  • Medical Examination- $200
  • Language Exam- $300
  • Biometrics- $85

The total cost of Canada PR for one applicant is $2,250

Cost of Canada PR for a couple without a kid:

  • Canada PR application processing fee- $1,700
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee- $1,030
  • Educational Credential Assessment- $600
  • Medical Examination- $400
  • Language Exam- $600
  • Biometrics- $170

The total cost of Canada PR for a Couple without dependent children is $4,500

Cost of Canada PR for a couple with ONE kid as a dependent child:

  • Canada PR application processing fee- $1,930
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee- $1,030
  • Educational Credential Assessment- $600
  • Medical Examination- $600
  • Language Exam- $600
  • Biometrics- $170

The total cost of Canada PR for a Couple with one dependent child is $4,930

Proof of funds for Canada PR visa

Proof of funds is required to prove that an individual is capable of settling down in Canada. If the individual is invited via Express Entry to apply for Canada PR, they must upload written proof that they have the required amount of money.

If a candidate is immigrating through the Federal Skilled Trades Program or Federal Skilled Worker Program, they are required to provide proof of funds. However, individuals applying under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or those who have valid work permits in Canada are not required to show proof of funds.

Number of family membersFunds required
1CAD 13,757
2CAD 17,127
3CAD 21,055
4CAD 25,564
5CAD 28,994
6CAD 32,700
7CAD 36,407
If more than 7, for each additional memberCAD 3,706

How to check PR status?

To check your Canada PR status, visit the official IRCC website. Navigate to the “Check application status” page and enter your unique application number and other required details. You will then receive real-time updates on the status of your Canadian Permanent Residency application. That’s it you can get your permanent resident status.

Final step of a Permanent Resident Visa

The last decision of granting permanent residency status resides with the federal government only. Though provinces and territories have the authority to nominate candidates based on their labor market needs, it is still the federal government that decides whether a candidate is eligible or not. 

The candidates go through thorough security and admissibility checks before they are granted permanent residency. And this is the final step in the process of getting PR.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the validity of a Canada PR visa?

Ans. A Canada PR is valid for about 5 years. During these five years, the PR may travel in and out of Canada anytime they like.

How long to stay in Canada with PR?

Ans. If you want to keep your PR status active, you must be in Canada for at least 730 days out of the 5 years.

How to get Canadian PR from India?

Ans. To get Canadian PR from India you should:
a. Fill out an application form
b. Upload necessary documents
c. Pay the PR application fee
d. Submit the completed application

How long can I stay in India after getting Canadian PR?

Ans. You stay in India after getting PR visa for a long period. Just make sure to stay in Canada for about 730 days in the 5 years so your Canada PR status remains valid.

What are the pathways for Canada PR visa from India?

Ans. These are the pathways for Canada PR from India:
a. Provincial Nominee Program
b. Federal Skilled Worker Program
c. Canadian Experience Class
d. Quebec Skilled Worker Program
e. Family Class Sponsorship
f. Business Immigration

Is IELTS mandatory for Canada PR?

Ans. No, IELTS is not mandatory for Canada PR. IELTS alternatives are also available for English language proficiency tests that an applicant can give such as CELPIP.

What is the fastest way to get PR in Canada?

Ans. Express Entry is the fastest way to get PR in Canada. The candidates who apply for Canada PR through Express Entry get a PR visa usually within six months.

Can I leave Canada once I get PR?

Ans. Yes, you can travel in and out of Canada after getting a permanent residence visa. However, to keep your Canada PR status active, you must stay in Canada for 730 days out of 5 years.

Can I go back to India after getting PR?

Ans. Yes, you can go back to India even after getting a Canada PR visa. 

Does India allow dual citizenship with Canada?

Ans. No, India does not allow dual citizenship with any nation.

What is the Express Entry system and how does it work?

Ans. The Express Entry system is used to invite skilled eligible workers to Canada. These workers contribute to the growth of the Canadian economy. 

What is the CRS Score and how it is calculated?

Ans. The CRS is the points-based system used by the Canadian government to rank and score the candidates’ profiles in the Express Entry pool. The CRS score is calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency skill, adaptability, and arranged employment (job offer) of the candidate. 

What are the benefits of having Canada PR?

Ans. Some top benefits of having Canada PR are-
a. Be able to live, study, and work anywhere in Canada
b. Childcare benefits, pension plans, retirement benefits
c. Start and invest in a business
d. Road to Canadian citizenship

How can I improve my chances of getting a Canada PR?

Ans. To improve your chances of getting Canada PR, you must aim to score a higher CRS score. To increase your CRS score, you can apply for a provincial nominee program (PNP) to get a nomination. A nomination from a PNP provides an additional 600 points to the candidate. 

What is the permanent resident visa duration in Canada?

Ans. Canada permanent residence visa duration is about 5 years. After your PR card expires or expires in less than 9 months, you can apply for a Canada PR card renewal. Usually, a PR card is valid for about 5 years. 

How to Become a Canadian Citizen?

Ans. To become a Canadian citizen you must meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements are:
a. Must be a permanent resident (PR)
b. Must have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of 5 years
c. Prove your language proficiency skills
d. Must have filed taxes, if necessary
e. Pass the Canadian citizenship test

Can I apply for Canada PR without a job offer?

Ans. Yes, you can apply for Canada PR visa without a job offer. There are some immigration pathways, such as Family Class Sponsorship, by which you can apply for Canada PR and don’t even need a job offer. 

What is the minimum IELTS score required for Canada PR?

Ans. To be eligible for Canada PR, a candidate needs to score at least IELTS Level 7.

Can I apply for Canada PR visa through PNP?

Ans. Yes, you can apply for Canada PR even if you immigrated to Canada via a Provincial Nominee Program. Through the PNP, you can receive a nomination which will increase your CRS score, hence increasing your chances of getting a Canada PR. 

Who can apply for PR in Canada?

Ans. The eligibility criteria to apply for Canada PR visa are as follows:
a. Must have scored at least 67 points
b. Should have required language skills
c. Must be above 18 years
d. Must have required funds
e. Must not have any serious Criminal record

How much is the Canada PR application fee?

Ans. The Canada PR application fee is $1,365. This includes the processing fee ($850) and the Right of Permanent Residence fee ($515).

Is healthcare free in Canada?

Ans. Yes, Universal healthcare is freely available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Eligibility for new permanent residents varies by province or territory. Some provinces may require a waiting period of a few months before new permanent residents can access free healthcare, so private health insurance may be necessary during this time.

How much CELPIP score is required for Canada PR?

Ans. To be eligible for Canadian PR, a candidate needs to score at least CELPIP-G Level 7. 

Is it necessary to provide new test scores for the English Proficiency test?

Ans. If you have taken the English proficiency test in the last two years, you don’t need to provide a new test score. In other words, you can provide your IELTS score for the last 2 years.

What are the rights of Permanent Residents (PR) in Canada?

Ans. The rights of Permanent Residents (PR) in Canada are:
a. Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
b. Apply for Canadian citizenship
c. Be protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
d. Get social benefits such as childcare benefits, health coverage, pension plans, etc.

Do Indians get Canada PR?

Yes, Indians get Canadian PR. In the past 3 years of immigration journey, they granted more than 100,000 PRs.

What happens if I lose Permanent Resident (PR) status in Canada?

Ans. If your Canada PR card expires, it does not mean that you have lost your PR status. To renew your card, just apply for a new Canada permanent resident card. 

What happens if my Canada PR application is denied?

Ans. If your PR application is denied, you can reapply anytime, unless the decision letter says you cannot. When applying again, make sure that you don’t repeat any past mistakes and only provide the information that you left out before.

Co-Founder-Devdatt-Dhariyal