Canada is a sought-after destination for people seeking Permanent residency particularly Pakistanis due to its high quality of life and diverse society.
Canada offers multiple opportunities for personal and professional growth for Pakistanis. It also offers numerous opportunities to families from all over the world to have a secure future.
However, obtaining a PR in Canada can be an overwhelming experience as it involves a lengthy process and understanding the rules and regulations.
This guide is perfect for Pakistani nationals who are planning to permanently settle in Canada, as we will provide you with pathways, tips, and everything you need to know about PR in Canada.
Overview of PR in Canada
PR in Canada refers to the process of granting a PR status to a person who has immigrated to Canada but is not a Canadian citizen. Once a person becomes a Canadian permanent resident, they become eligible to obtain a PR card, this card is used by the individual to travel in and out of the country, and it indicates a person’s PR status in Canada.
Permanent residency unlike temporary status in Canada does not expire. Maintaining the Permanent residence status continues until the government does not revoke the PR of a person.
Eligibility Requirements of PR in Canada
The eligibility and qualification for getting a PR in Canada are examined by the following factors: such as age, level of education, employment, work experience, overall conduct, and language proficiency. Once granted Permanent residency, a person must maintain their permanent status in Canada by meeting the residency obligations. A permanent resident has the flexibility to leave Canada at any time but must fulfil their residency obligations.
Steps to Apply for a PR in Canada
To apply for a PR in Canada, you need to follow certain steps based on the program that you have chosen. With a little preparation and research, the application process can be done smoothly.
Step #1 Check if you are eligible or not: To make sure you are eligible for a PR in Canada, take an assessment of several factors to ensure eligibility. The test may include English proficiency and may ask for work and educational history.
Step #2 Organize and compile all the required documents: Make certain that all necessary documentation, inclusive of educational transcripts, language test results, proof of funds, and work experience letters, are properly prepared and organized for PR program requirements.
Step #3 creating an Express Entry profile, It is essential to make a profile on the Canadian government website and fill out the application form without any errors. After being eligible the candidate is required to provide information such as age and gender, contact information, travel documents information, language proficiency, financial backing work/educational history, and much more. In this step, the guidance of an immigration consultant is highly regarded to ensure the completion of the form.
Step #4 Submission of fees: You are required to pay the fees of the PR application according to the program you have chosen. After this submit your application either online or through mail.
Step #5 Waiting for ITA: An invitation to apply is granted if your CRS score is enough to be selected through the express entry draws.
Step #6 Undergoing medical and biometric examinations: You are then required to go through the medical test, and provide biometrics and police clearance forms.
Step #7 Once you have finalized and submitted your application, you have to wait patiently for the selection and confirmation of your PR. If you are selected the IRCC will grant you a PR visa through which you can enter Canada.
This step requires patience and time, as the processing time for each application can vary.
Multiple Immigration Options for Pakistanis
Canada offers multiple pathways for Pakistanis to settle in Canada. Be it study, work, or family sponsorships. However, it is crucial to understand the requirements of each type of PR pathway, because each profile is different.
Taking the help of an immigration consultant can be beneficial as they not only help you throughout the whole process and make sure you follow the right direction, but will also help you save time.
Pathways to PR in Canada for Pakistanis
A Canadian permanent resident is a person whom the government of Canada has granted permanent resident status. They enjoy the same benefits as Canadian citizens but they must maintain their status by fulfilling their residency obligations.
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Sponsorship
- Business Immigration
Express Entry:
Express Entry is considered the fastest, easiest, and most popular immigration method, it takes about 6 months or less for application processing.
By the year 2025, Canada is planning to invite almost half a million newcomers through various Express entry streams: Federal skilled trades (FST), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Worker (FSW).
Making and submitting your profile to the express entry pool is an overwhelming process with multiple steps. It is only for those candidates who are eligible for the programs under the Express Entry profile. Then the profiles are assessed with the help of CRS scores, with the highest being able to apply for a Canadian PR.
Overall, Express entry is a pathway to migrate to Canada which is characterized by the CRS score that determines the fate of your PR application.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program is another method of immigration processing. There are numerous nominee programs offered by Canadian Provinces, each having its unique eligibility criteria, they invite overseas candidates either based on the Province’s need for the labour market, or connection to the province to apply for nomination.
Moreover, each PNP has its own processing time and process. The fees are usually the same as the express entry, which depends upon the nominating Province.
Different provinces in Canada have their own Provincial Nominee Programs designed according to their area and needs. Hence the program criteria and eligibility also differ between these more than 80 provinces. Expect Quebec and Nunavut each province has its own PNP.
Different PNP Streams
There are different PNP streams and pathways to choose from such as;
International graduate stream that is designed for students who have graduated from Canadian institutes.
Next is the skilled worker stream which specifically targets workers and professionals.
The entrepreneur stream is the one that is designed for businessmen and entrepreneurs who want to set up their businesses in Canada.
Lastly, the semi-skilled worker stream is made for lower-skilled professionals.
Sponsorship
Immigration through sponsorship is possible if your spouse, child, or grandchild is a Citizen or permanent resident of Canada. It is regarded as the least challenging way to immigration and the processing time depends upon the family member or your sponsor.
Business Immigration:
Business Immigration requires a significant amount of investment in the company you plan to set up in Canada. Business immigration provides the easiest way to work and reside in Canada, either through Provincial/regional or Federal entrepreneur programs.
Maximizing Your Chances of Securing a Canadian PR: General Tips and Tricks
- Prepare Documents: Make certain that all necessary documentation, inclusive of educational transcripts, language test results, proof of funds, and work experience letters, are properly prepared and organized for immigration program requirements.
- Seek Professional Help: Getting advice from an immigration representative is crucial as they will not only help you fill out the application properly but also provide a sense of satisfaction and peace that your case is in good and experienced hands.
- Be Up to Date: Follow up on the shifts in immigration policies, program guidelines, and application procedures. Periodically visit the official government sites and trustworthy immigration news sources for the latest updates.
- Research Thoroughly: Thoroughly understand the dos and don’ts of the application process. You need to check the eligibility criteria and gather all the required documents without any rush. Familiarizing yourself with the specific immigration regulations and policies is a crucial aspect of successful Canadian immigration.
Conclusion:
In short, Canada is a land of opportunities for people from all over the world particularly Pakistanis who are planning to settle permanently there.
There are numerous ways to get a PR in Canada, and seeking proper immigration help can enhance your chances of obtaining a PR in Canada.
By following the tips and information provided in this guide, Pakistanis can maximize their chances of securing PR in Canada, whether they choose any pathway.