Attaining Permanent Residency Status in Canada

The Great White North is home to one of the highest immigration rates in the world yearly. In order to enjoy all the opportunities that this beautiful country has to offer, one must have completed the application process to become a permanent resident. 

As permanent residents, immigrants share almost all the rights and privileges of Canadian citizens, with the exception of voting rights, holding political office and unlimited stays when traveling outside the country. Essentially, you could live, work or attend school anywhere in Canada, and also be entitled to receiving health care and other social benefits. 

Broadly speaking, there are six categories under which an immigrant seeking to attain permanent residency status can apply. 

Skilled Worker Immigration - In this category, applications are evaluated based on educational achievements, age, arranged employment language ability, adaptability and, of course, specialized work experience of the applicant.

Business Immigration Class – This is applicable to those who either wish to be investors or entrepreneurs and contribute significantly to the economy. 

Family Class Immigration - For those who may have immediate family members already holding permanent residency in Canada, they can opt to use the sponsorship system for easier processing of their application. 

Provincial Nomination – A province can nominate certain individuals whom they may want to migrate and settle in their region.

International Adoption - Canada allows permanent residents to adopt a child from another country, thus making that child attain permanent residency status. 

Quebec-Selected Immigration – This involves a special evaluation system.