How to Apply for Canada PR from India?

Why apply for Canada PR?

• Canada to invite 485,000 new permanent residents in the year 2024
• By the end of 2025, Canada plans to admit 1.5 million new permanent residents
• As per Canada Labour Force Survey report, employment rising in all key provinces of Canada
• Earn 7 to 8 times your current salary
• Access to a universal healthcare system
• Free education for your children
• Retirement benefits
• The easiest pathway to Canadian citizenship

A Canada Permanent Resident Visa serves as a gateway to obtaining permanent resident status in Canada. This visa allows holders to live, study, and work freely within the country. Those who meet the eligibility criteria can also apply for Canadian citizenship.

What is a Canada PR Visa?

A Canada Permanent Resident Visa allows non-Canadian citizens to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely, providing access to social benefits and protection under Canadian law. While it is a crucial step toward obtaining full Canadian citizenship, it does not include the right to vote in Canadian elections.

How to get a Canada PR (Permanent Resident) Visa?

The Canadian government has designed various pathways/programs to obtain Canada PR visa from India depending on the immigration type or immigrant category. Since, every program has different process and requirements, to apply for PR visa; you must meet the eligibility criteria and follow the application process of the immigration program you choose.

Find below some popular pathways/programs to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency:

Do’s and Don’ts of Canadian Permanent Resident:

Dos	Don’ts
A Canada PR holder can live, study, or work anywhere in Canada.	Canada PRs can’t vote or run for any political office.
A PR holder can apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirement	Canada PRs can’t hold certain government jobs requiring high-level security clearance.
PR holders get most of the social benefits to which Canadian citizens are entitled, i.e. healthcare coverage.
PRs are eligible to get protection under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canadian law.

Who can be the Permanent Resident of Canada? 

A permanent resident of Canada is an individual granted the right to live, study, and work anywhere in Canada through a Permanent Resident Visa. Candidates with permanent resident status in Canada can enjoy many of the rights of Canadian citizens, although they remain citizens of their home countries unless they apply for and are granted Canadian citizenship. It is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

Canadian Permanent Resident Vs. Canada Citizenship

The difference between Canada PR and Canadian citizens is given in the table below: 

Feature	Canada Permanent Residency (PR)	Canadian Citizenship
Residency Requirement	Must reside in Canada for at least 730 days within a 5-year period	No Residency conditions
Right to Live, Work, and Study	Can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada	Can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
Social Benefits	Access to most social benefits, including healthcare	Access to all social benefits, including healthcare
Voting Rights	Cannot vote in federal, provincial, or municipal elections	Can vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
Political Office	Cannot run for political office	Can run for political office
Passport	No Canadian passport, travel with home country passport	Eligible for a Canadian passport
Citizenship Status	Retains citizenship of home country	Canadian citizen, can retain dual citizenship if allowed
Military and Federal Jobs	Limited access to certain jobs requiring security clearance	Eligible for jobs requiring security clearance
Renewal	PR card is valid for 5 years, must be renewed	No need for renewal, citizenship is permanent
Deportation	Can be deported for serious crimes	Cannot be deported, protected under Canadian law
Application Process	Apply for PR through immigration programs	Must first be a PR and meet residency and other criteria to apply for citizenship

Canada Immigration Levels Plan

Popular programs/pathways to get Canada PR Visa

The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers several immigration programs to get permanent residency. The most popular are:

1. Express Entry Program– It is a point-based and online federal immigration program.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – The PNPs are immigration programs of Canadian provinces.

3. Investor/Entrepreneur Program– This program is for entrepreneurs/investors willing to start a new business or invest in Canada's existing business.

4. Self-employed Program– An individual with relevant experience, can immigrate to Canada under the self-employed immigration program

5. Family class Immigration– For Canadian permanent residents to sponsor their family members

How to get a Canada PR visa through Express Entry System?

Express Entry System is one of the most popular pathways to get Canada PR visa from India. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (then CIC) launched the Express Entry system in January 2015. Express Entry has three key categories:

1. Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP)
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The first one, i.e. the Federal Skilled Workers Program, is for the Skilled Workers from Overseas. It invites skilled and talented people from overseas and allocates the permanent residency invitation to the selected candidates.

Documentation Requirement to apply for Canada PR Visa from India

To apply for Canada PR Visa, you need a few key documents while following the stepwise process of federal Express Entry System. Find below the key documents required to apply for Canadian PR (Permanent Resident) Visa:

• ECA- ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) from an approved assessing authority, i.e. WES, ICAS, IQAS, etc.
• IELTS test- You need to provide language proficiency test for either French or English language with minimum CLB 7 score
• Medical Exam certificate as and when asked by the immigration office
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), as and when asked by the visa office
• Birth Certificate- required if you are declaring dependent children
• Marriage certificate- required if you have declared your marital status as “married”. Also, need to provide supporting documents, if your ‘married’ status has now changed.
• Proof of funds related document needs to be submitted, i.e. official letters from any banks or financial institutions, etc.
• Other Basic documents required during the process

Eligibility Criteria/Selection Factors for Express Entry

To qualify for Canada PR via express entry-FSW category, you need to score 67 points out of 100 for the below-given factors:

1. Age: The minimum age to apply is 18 years, while there is no upper age limit. However, the applicants between 18-35 years of age get maximum points. The points for the age factor start decreasing gradually after the age of 35.
2. Education: Your educational qualification must be minimum higher secondary as per Canadian Education standards. However, you may need more increased capabilities, i.e. gradation, depending upon the occupation (NOC Code) you apply.
3. Work experience: You need to have a minimum of one-year full-time work experience. However, based on the category you choose or to gain more points, your experience needs to be more than just one year. Moreover, your occupation must be in TEER 0 to TEER 3 category of the new NOC system 2021. Proficiency in English or French is necessary. If you are proficient in English, you must have at least a score of six bands in your IELTS test result. You can earn extra points for language factors if you are proficient in French as well.
4. Language ability: Proficiency in English or French is necessary. If you are proficient in English, you must have at least a score of six bands in your IELTS test result. You can earn extra points for language factors if you are proficient in French as well.
5. Adaptability: You can get points for this factor if your spouse or common-law partner has a connection to Canada. It means past education, work experience, relative, etc. in Canada or your spouse/partner has CLB 4 level of language proficiency.
6. Arranged employment: You can gain points for this factor, provided you have a valid employment offer from a Canadian employer.

What is the next step once you qualify for Express Entry-FSW Category?

If you meet the point's criteria of the FSW category of the Express Entry program, you need to submit EOI. Subsequently, you are in the Express Entry pool.

In the EE pool, you get a CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score based on factors, i.e. age, education, work experience, etc.

The IRCC can select you from this pool of eligible candidates, based on your CRS point score.

Express Entry holds draws periodically to select Candidates. If the IRCC selects you, you will get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a Canada PR visa based on your point score.

Once you receive ITA, you need to apply for a Canada PR along with the required documents within 60 days.

How to apply for Canada PR visa via Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

If your point score in the express entry system is not high enough to get an ITA for Canada PR, you can apply in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

You can apply in a PNP via two main methods to obtain a Canada PR visa nomination.

• Get NOI from Province- Most of the provinces have an express entry linked stream through which they can access your express entry profile. The PNPs choose your profile from the EE pool and send a notification to accept the nomination. You require responding to this notification of interest and applying for the relevant PNP stream to obtain additional 600 CRS points in your express entry account.
• Apply for PNP directly– Moreover, if you want to settle in a particular province of Canada, you can now apply to its Provincial Nominee Program, if you are eligible.

The province will assess your profile, and if you fulfil the requirements, you will get a nomination for Canada PR from the PNP. You can apply for Canada PR after you get the nomination certificate from that particular province.

Apply for Canada PR Visa via the Business Immigration Program

Canada offers permanent residency to entrepreneurs/investors interested in starting a new or investing in Canada's existing business. The Business Investment stream (BIS) of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is critical for immigrating to Canada as an Entrepreneur or Investor.

Apply for Canada PR visa from India as Self-employed Person

A foreign national, who has relevant experience, can be self-employed in Canada, and contribute to the economy. The IRCC select the applicants based on the following criteria:

• The applicant has relevant experience, i.e.
• He/she has taken part in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level or
• An applicant is a self-employed person in cultural activities or athletics.
• The applicant has the intent and ability to be self-employed in Canada.
• He/she fulfil the program's selection parameters and

Apart from above requirements, Canada PR visa applicant must meet the medical and security requirements as well.

Apply for Canada PR visa through Family sponsorship

If you are 18 years old and a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you can sponsor certain relatives for Canada PR visa under the Family Class. The relative can be:

• Your dependent child (this includes an adopted child) or
• Your spouse,
• Your conjugal or common-law partner,
• Other eligible relatives.
• If your family member can become a permanent resident, they can live, work, and study in Canada.

Eligibility requirements to sponsor your family members for Canada PR

• A sponsor needs to be 18 years of age and a permanent resident or citizen of Canada
• Show evidence that he/she is financially capable of supporting family members or dependents
• Sponsor must agree to keep the family members for a certain period
• The sponsor should either be in Canada or have the intent to live
• Should not be bankrupt
• Shouldn't have any charge of a criminal offence against him/her
• He/she shouldn't be under a removal order

The stepwise process to apply for Canada PR visa from India?

If you are ready with your plans to apply for Canada PR visa from India, you may follow the below process. Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are the two most common and popular programs to apply.

Here are the steps:

Step 1: Obtain key documents, i.e. ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) and English/French language ability tests results before submitting the profile.

If you are proficient in English, take the IELTS exam. You need to obtain the English test with the required level of proficiency. The approved French test result is also acceptable.

Step 2: Score minimum points based on age, education, experience, etc. If applying through the Express entry-FSW category, you need to score a minimum of 67 points out of 100.

Step 3: Submit your EOI (Expression of Interest) profile based on the immigration program you are applying.

Step 4: Get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the particular program you have applied.

Step 5: Once you get the ITA, be ready to submit application, along with all the required documents, i.e. education and employment-related documents, proof of funds, etc.

Step 6: Get your medical check-up done, obtain a medical certificate along with the PCC (Police Clearance Certificate), and submit your application.

Step 7: After applying, the concerned immigration officer will verify your application and documents. The officer may also ask you to provide additional information or documents (only if required).

Step 8: If IRCC approves your application, you will get confirmation of your PR and get a COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence) document.

In general, the Canada PR application processing time is 6- 8 months. However, it also depends on the immigration program you are applying along with some other vital factors.

These factors are the status of your submitted application and documents, the time elapsed in responding to any query asked by the office, etc.

Jobs in Canada for Indians

According to Statistics Canada (StatCan), there are 1 million job openings for skilled professionals from overseas. The table below provides details about the most in-demand occupations in Canada, along with their average salary ranges.

Occupation	Average Salary Range (CAD)
Software Engineer	$70,000 - $120,000
Registered Nurse	$60,000 - $95,000
Electrician	$50,000 - $85,000
Welder	$40,000 - $70,000
Mechanical Engineer	$65,000 - $110,000
Construction Manager	$75,000 - $120,000
IT Project Manager	$80,000 - $130,000
Marketing Manager	$70,000 - $120,000
Accountant	$55,000 - $90,000
Truck Driver	$45,000 - $75,000
Physiotherapist	$65,000 - $95,000
Business Analyst	$65,000 - $110,000
Human Resources Manager	$70,000 - $115,000
Financial Advisor	$50,000 - $100,000
Civil Engineer	$65,000 - $105,000

IT Jobs in Canada

Canadian IT companies are increasingly hiring foreign workers. According to recent reports, there is a high demand for IT professionals under the Express Entry system. The top IT jobs currently in demand are listed below:

IT Job Title	Average Salary Range (CAD)
Software Developer	$70,000 - $120,000
IT Project Manager	$80,000 - $130,000
Data Scientist	$75,000 - $125,000
Systems Analyst	$65,000 - $105,000
Network Engineer	$70,000 - $110,000
Cybersecurity Specialist	$80,000 - $130,000
Cloud Solutions Architect	$90,000 - $140,000
DevOps Engineer	$85,000 - $130,000
Database Administrator	$65,000 - $105,000
Business Analyst (IT)	$65,000 - $110,000
Web Developer	$60,000 - $100,000
AI/Machine Learning Engineer	$85,000 - $130,000
Mobile Application Developer	$70,000 - $115,000
IT Support Specialist	$50,000 - $85,000
UX/UI Designer	$65,000 - $105,000

What is the Canada PR application fees?

• The Canada PR visa fee for the primary applicant– Processing Fee CAD 950 + Right of PR fee – CAD 575
• Spouse/common-law partner or family member fee – Processing fee CAD 950+ Right of PR free CAD 575
• Child (Under 22 years of age) – Processing fee CAD 260

There are other charges involved when you estimate the total cost of Canada PR, i.e. IELTS/ECA fee, medical and PCC charges, etc.

Click here to see the total cost of applying Canada PR.

Proof of funds for Canada PR visa

As an applicant of the Canadian permanent residency, you also need to show the settlement funds or proof of funds.

You need to show this amount to confirm that you are capable and ready to support the stay of your family members and self until you get your first income.

This amount may vary depending upon the size of the family, i.e. the number of family members. You can produce several documents to show proof of funds, i.e. letter from the bank, etc.

Duties and responsibilities of a Canada PR visa holder

• As a Canadian permanent resident, you must carry your PR card or PRTD (permanent resident travel document) when travelling to Canada.
• You will not board a flight, boat, train, or bus to Canada if you do not carry the same.
• Ensure that this card is valid when you travel back to Canada after moving outside the maple leaf country.
• Apply for a new PR if the existing one has expired.

Canada PR Visa Renewal Process

To renew your existing PR, make sure that you have stayed in Canada for a minimum of 730 days in the last five years.

This period is not necessarily a period of constant stay; however, you must have a record of living in Canada for this period to renew your visa. Applicant meeting this condition can apply for the renewal of a PR visa.

What can make you lose your Canada PR status?

A Canada PR holder can lose PR status in the following cases:

1. an adjudicator concludes that you are no longer a permanent resident post an investigation or PRTD appeal
2. you willingly or voluntarily surrender your permanent resident status;
3. There is a removal or elimination order against you, which is still applicable.
4. You become a citizen of Canada. 

Canada PR User Queries

• Easiest Way to Get PR of Canada
• IELTS or CELPIP for Canadian PR
• Indian to Canadian Citizen
• Student to PR in Canada

What is the Easiest Way to Obtain Canada PR?

The Express Entry program is the quickest and easiest route to permanent residency in Canada. This point-based system evaluates candidates based on education, qualifications, skills, and experience, with higher points increasing the chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.

Which is the best language test for Canada PR? IELTS or CELPIP  

CELPIP is often preferred for Canadian PR and citizenship applications. It is specifically designed for those seeking PR, citizenship, or professional designations in Canada. CELPIP is a computer-based test that is considered easier for listening and reading sections.

How an Indian can become a Canadian Citizen?

• Permanent Residency: Must be a permanent resident.
• Residency Requirement: Must have lived in Canada for at least three out of the last five years.
• Taxes: Must have paid all necessary taxes.
• Citizenship Test: Required to pass a citizenship test.
• Language Test: Must pass a language test in English or French.
• Good Standing: No criminal records during the stay and maintain good standing with your permanent residency status.

What is the Best Way for Students to Get PR in Canada?

To be eligible for PR, students must:

• Complete Studies: Finish their education in Canada.
• Language Proficiency: Prove proficiency in English or French.
• Work Experience: Gain at least one year of work experience.
• Job Offer: May require a valid job offer depending on the province.

The fastest route for international students is through the Express Entry Program, specifically the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) which uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates. High CRS scores lead to invitations to apply for Canadian PR.

Obtaining permanent residency in Canada can be a cumbersome process for any individual. It is more so if you are going through the process for the first time.

In such a scenario, a genuine and trusted Canadian visa consultant's help and assistance prove crucial.

As one of the best Canada immigration consultants in India, Visas Avenue has helped thousands of applicants over the years to apply and get the Canada PR Visa. To start your process with the VA team, you may call us on Toll-Free Number- 78-18-000-777 or fill the free assessment form to get a call back from the expert.