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Apply for Permanent Residency in Canada 

Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada grants immigrants the legal right to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. While permanent residents enjoy many of the same benefits as citizens, there are some key differences between the two statuses. Obtaining permanent residency is an important step for those seeking to settle in Canada long-term, with the potential to apply for citizenship in the future.

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What is Permanent Residency in Canada?

A permanent resident is an individual who has been granted legal authorization to live and work in Canada indefinitely without being a Canadian citizen. While PR status provides access to most social benefits, permanent residents are not allowed to:

  • Vote in elections or run for public office.

  • Conceal their PR status from the Canadian government.

  • Access certain jobs that require high-level security clearances.

Canadian Resident Application

Rights and Responsibilities of Permanent Residents

Rights:

  • Live, work, or study anywhere in Canada.

  • Access to public healthcare services through provincial plans.

  • Legal protection under Canadian law and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

  • Apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Responsibilities:

  • Respect all Canadian laws at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.

  • Pay taxes like any Canadian citizen.

  • Maintain PR status by living in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) within a five-year period. These days do not have to be consecutive, but they must total two years.

Ways to Obtain Permanent Residency in Canada

Canada offers multiple pathways to obtain permanent residency, tailored to different immigrant profiles based on their education, skills, family connections, or humanitarian circumstances. Below are the main pathways:

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1. Express Entry System

The Express Entry is one of the fastest and most popular systems for obtaining PR, especially for skilled workers. Through this system, the government manages three main economic immigration programs:

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  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For individuals with skilled work experience who meet specific education, language, and experience criteria.

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Designed for workers specialized in trades such as construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals who have already worked in Canada and wish to convert their temporary status into permanent status.

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Candidates are assessed under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points based on age, education, work experience, and language skills. Those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces and territories to select candidates who meet their specific economic needs. Each province has unique immigration streams to attract skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs.

Candidates nominated by a province can apply for PR at the federal level. Additionally, those nominated through Express Entry receive extra points in the CRS, improving their chances of receiving an invitation

3. Family Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain family members to obtain PR. Eligible family members include:

  • Spouses or common-law partners.

  • Dependent children under 22 years old or older children with medical conditions that prevent them from being self-sufficient.

  • Parents and grandparents, although this program may have long waiting times and is subject to annual draws.

The sponsor must demonstrate financial ability to support the sponsored family member and ensure they will not rely on social assistance.

4. Humanitarian and Refugee Programs

Canada is known for its humanitarian commitment and offers permanent residency to individuals in vulnerable situations:

  • Refugees: People fleeing persecution, war, or violence can apply for PR through resettlement programs or from within Canada.

  • Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds: Those who do not qualify for other immigration programs but have strong ties to Canada and would face extreme hardship if deported can apply on these grounds.

Immigrant Lawyers

How AMA LEGAL IMMIGRATION & LEGAL SERVICES Can Help You

The path to permanent residency can be complex and challenging, but at AMA LEGAL IMMIGRATION & LEGAL SERVICES, we are here to make each step of the process easier. We offer:

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  • Personalized assessment of your profile to determine the most suitable pathway to PR.

  • Preparation of detailed applications and thorough review of documentation.

  • Specialized legal advice to maximize your points in Express Entry or PNP.

  • Assistance in the family sponsorship process, ensuring you meet all requirements.

  • Representation in humanitarian and refugee cases, ensuring your application is strong and well-founded.

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Build Your Future in Canada with AMA LEGAL

Permanent residency in Canada offers an invaluable opportunity for those seeking a stable future full of possibilities. With multiple pathways to PR, it is essential to have legal experts to guide you through the process.

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Contact us today for a personalized consultation and begin your journey toward a fulfilling life in Canada. At AMA LEGAL IMMIGRATION & LEGAL SERVICES, we are committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals efficiently and without complications.

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