Permanent residence gives you the right to live, work and study anywhere in Canada and is the main step toward citizenship. There are many routes — here are the major ones and how to choose.
As a permanent resident you can live, work or study anywhere in Canada, access most social benefits including public healthcare coverage, and be protected under Canadian law. After meeting residency and other requirements you may apply for Canadian citizenship.
Express Entry manages applications for three federal programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on age, education, language ability, work experience and other factors, and the highest-ranked candidates are invited to apply.
CRS cutoffs change with every round of invitations, so chasing a specific past number isn't useful. Use our CRS Calculator to estimate your score, then work with an expert to maximize the factors you can improve.
Each province and territory (except Quebec, which runs its own system) operates Provincial Nominee Program streams targeting workers, graduates and entrepreneurs they need. A provincial nomination adds significant value to an Express Entry profile and can be a route for candidates who aren't yet competitive federally.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor eligible spouses, partners, children and certain other relatives. There are also pilots and category-based selections aimed at specific occupations, French-speaking candidates and particular regions. The best route depends on your full profile.
This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules, fees and thresholds change frequently and depend on your situation — speak with a GurAmmor expert for advice tailored to you.
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