The most common path to permanent residence in Canada is through skilled immigration. The federal Express Entry system includes three categories: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC). Additionally, Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) and Quebec-specific programs, such as the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) and Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), offer additional pathways for skilled immigrants.

Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of continuous work experience within the past decade in one of the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3. They are assessed on factors including age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability, with a minimum score of 67 points out of 100 required. A job offer in Canada, approved by Service Canada, can strengthen the application.

Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of work experience in Canada within the past three years in any of the NOC TEER categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3. Additionally, they must meet the minimum language proficiency requirements in either English or French.

Applicants must possess at least two years of work experience in an eligible skilled trade within the past five years and meet the job requirements for their trade according to the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC). Additionally, they must have either a full-time job offer for at least one year (approved by Service Canada) or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian trade authority. Applicants must also show minimum language proficiency in English or French.

Canada encourages provinces to develop tailored skilled immigrant programs to address their unique needs. Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) complement the federal immigration system, creating numerous subcategories and expanding options for skilled immigrants. Each PNP has specific eligibility criteria.

The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is a provincial immigration initiative designed to attract skilled workers to Quebec. Applicants are evaluated based on several factors, including education, work experience, age, language proficiency (with a strong emphasis on French), and adaptability. The program utilizes a points-based system for candidate assessment. Prospective applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Quebec immigration authorities. Those with the highest scores are then invited to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). A successful CSQ is essential for applying for permanent residence with the federal government.

The PEQ is designed to attract individuals who have already contributed to Quebec’s economy and culture, making it an ideal pathway for those wishing to establish permanent residency in Quebec. For Graduates: Applicants must have completed a full-time study program at a recognized Quebec educational institution, resulting in an eligible diploma, within the last 36 months. For Workers: Applicants must have accumulated at least 12 months of full-time work experience in Quebec within the last 24 months, in a skilled occupation classified under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Canadian business immigration programs aim to boost economic growth by attracting immigrants with capital, business expertise, and entrepreneurial skills. The following is a summary of each category:

The immigration process involves two steps: submitting an expression of interest and obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). Applicants must sign an investment agreement with an approved financial intermediary, have at least two years of management experience, a net worth of CAD 2,000,000 (excluding recent gifts), a Quebec high school diploma equivalent, and French proficiency at Level 7. Additionally, they must secure a certificate of learning Quebec’s democratic values, have the financial intermediary invest CAD 1,000,000 for five years and pay CAD 200,000 to Investissement Québec, and reside in Quebec for at least 12 months within two years of obtaining the work permit.

The Startup Visa Program allows entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada to establish an innovative company that will create jobs and compete globally. To qualify, you must own at least 10% of the business and, with the designated organization, hold over 50% of the voting rights, obtain a letter of support from an approved organization, meet language requirements (NCLC 5 in English or French), and prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival.

This business immigration category is for applicants with relevant experience who intend to be self-employed in Canada in sectors such as cultural activities, athletics, or farm management. It also includes those with management experience in art and culture. Applicants must demonstrate the potential success of their business relocation.

Successful applicants receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and can then apply for Canadian permanent residency. They must have at least two years of self-employment experience, comply with Quebec’s profession regulations, and show a net worth of at least CAD 100,000. Applicants must also have a Quebec high school diploma, French proficiency at Level 7, make a startup deposit of CAD 25,000 outside Montreal or CAD 50,000 within Montreal, and fulfill other program requirements.

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program allows immigrant entrepreneurs to create or acquire and operate a business in Quebec. Successful candidates can obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and, upon receiving the CSQ, apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents over 18 can sponsor certain immediate family members for permanent residence in Canada. The sponsor must provide financial support for the sponsored person, with the level of responsibility varying by relationship.

Eligible family members for sponsorship include: Spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner, dependent children, parents or grandparents, orphaned siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren under 18 who are unmarried and not in a common-law relationship, children under 18 intended for adoption, provided the adoption is legal and approved, and any relative if no Canadian, Indigenous, or permanent resident family member is available.

The federal government allows Quebec greater autonomy in deciding who can settle in the province. Consequently, permanent residents or citizens living in Quebec must first obtain approval from the Quebec Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) before sponsoring an eligible family member. MIFI handles the approval of sponsorship undertakings for Quebec-based sponsors. 

A Permanent Resident (PR) card confirms status in Canada. PRs can renew their card if they meet residency requirements (being in Canada for 2 of the last 5 years), haven’t been ordered to leave, are not convicted of PR card misuse, and aren’t Canadian citizens. PRs are considered present if they are outside Canada but accompanying a Canadian, working for a Canadian business, or accompanying a working permanent resident. They must provide evidence of meeting residency obligations and present their PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document to re-enter Canada. Expiry of the card doesn’t affect status, but failing to meet obligations, serious criminal convictions, becoming a Canadian citizen, or incorrect status determination can lead to loss of permanent residency. For more details or renewal assistance, contact our office.

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