Canada Immigration Visa Overview

Canada offers several types of immigration visas for people who want to:

  • Live permanently (Permanent Residency – PR)

  • Work temporarily

  • Study

  • Visit

  • Join family

🔹 1. Permanent Residence (PR) Visas

✳️ Express Entry System

This is Canada's most popular and fastest immigration pathway for skilled workers. It includes:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

🔑 Eligibility Criteria (FSWP):

  • Minimum 1 year of skilled work experience

  • Language proficiency (IELTS/TEF)

  • Education (ECA report for foreign credentials)

  • Proof of funds (unless you're already in Canada with a job)

🎯 Points-Based System: Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Higher scores increase chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

✳️ Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Each Canadian province and territory (except Quebec) has its own immigration streams targeting specific needs like:

  • Skilled workers

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Students

🔄 Many PNPs are linked with Express Entry ("enhanced PNPs") which offer additional CRS points.

✳️ Quebec Immigration

Quebec runs its own system, separate from Express Entry:

  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)

  • Must get a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)

✳️ Family Sponsorship

Canadian citizens or PRs can sponsor:

  • Spouse/partner

  • Dependent children

  • Parents or grandparents

Requires proof of financial ability and a sponsorship agreement.

🔹 2. Temporary Visas

✳️ Work Permit

  • Employer-specific or open work permits

  • Includes programs like Global Talent Stream, International Mobility Program, etc.

✳️ Study Permit

  • Required for most international students

  • Must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

Work during/after studies via:

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  • Student Direct Stream (SDS) for fast-tracked applications from certain countries

✳️ Visitor Visa (TRV)

  • Required for nationals of many countries to visit Canada

  • Does not allow working or studying

🔹 3. Immigration for Entrepreneurs/Investors

  • Start-Up Visa Program

  • Self-Employed Persons Program

  • Various provincial entrepreneur streams

✅ How to Apply

  1. Check eligibility

  2. Create an Express Entry profile (if applicable)

  3. Gather documents (e.g., IELTS, ECA, job offers)

  4. Submit application (online through IRCC)

  5. Wait for ITA or nomination

  6. Submit final PR application

  7. Biometrics & medical

  8. Receive Confirmation of PR (COPR)