Work, Study, and Visitor Permit Options
Three main work options
Most new permanent residents to Canada come through one of several economic pathways. The most common is through the Canadian Experience class (CEC) which requires one year of full-time work in Canada in what IRCC considers to be “skilled” employment.
Provinces and territories can also nominate temporary residents and foreigners for permanent residence in Canada through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) generally designed to fill specific labour market or regional development needs. Both CEC and PNP pathways require registration in the online Express Entry portal and evaluation of various so called “human capital” factors and the assignment of “comprehensive ranking score”. Some express entry draws target the PNP nominees specifically, while others target specific classes of work experience, or those with demonstrated French language skills.
The Canada-US-Mexico (CUSMA) free trade agreement provides work permits to those who have secured employment in Canada, in certain professional roles. This requires a pre-arranged contract with a Canadian employer, and that you have the relevant experience, education, licensing, and certifications (where applicable) for your job.
Explore each option further below.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Nearly every province and territory has its own immigration programs tailored to local labor market needs. If you have skills in a high-demand field in a specific province, you may receive a nomination, which significantly boosts your chances of permanent residency. Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs offer diverse and accessible pathways to permanent residency for individuals with unique skills, education, and experience. Whether you’re a skilled worker, entrepreneur, or graduate, there’s likely a PNP stream that aligns with your profile. By understanding the requirements and tailoring your application, you can maximize your chances of achieving your Canadian immigration goals.Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
AAIP is known for its relatively low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements, making it appealing for candidates with lower scores. Key streams include:
Alberta Express Entry Stream: Prioritizes candidates with strong ties to Alberta or experience in in-demand occupations.
Rural Renewal Stream: Focuses on skilled workers willing to settle in smaller, rural communities.
Alberta’s focus on economic growth and community development makes this program highly accessible.
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
OINP targets a wide range of immigrants, including skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students. The program offers streams such as:
Human Capital Priorities Stream: Focuses on skilled workers in key sectors like tech and healthcare.
French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: Aims to attract French-speaking immigrants.
Ontario’s PNP frequently conducts draws targeting candidates in specific occupations, making it an attractive option for Express Entry candidates.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
BC PNP is renowned for its tech-focused initiatives and prioritization of candidates with job offers. Major streams include:
Skills Immigration: Targets workers in healthcare, trades, and other high-demand occupations.
BC Tech Stream: Designed for tech professionals with job offers in one of 29 eligible tech occupations.
Entrepreneur Immigration: Attracts business owners to invest and operate in BC.
BC PNP operates a points-based system for selecting candidates and regularly conducts targeted draws.
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
SINP focuses on skilled workers and international graduates who can fill labor market gaps. Important streams include:
International Skilled Worker (ISW): Targets occupations in demand and Express Entry candidates.
Saskatchewan Experience: For workers already living in the province.
Entrepreneur and Farm Stream: Designed for entrepreneurs and farmers looking to invest in Saskatchewan.
The SINP’s low CRS requirements and frequent draws make it a preferred option for many immigrants.
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Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
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Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
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New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
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Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
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Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
To apply for a PNP, candidates generally follow these steps:
Research Provincial Programs: Identify a PNP that aligns with your skills, experience, and goals.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Some programs require candidates to express their interest through an online system.
Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the criteria for the specific stream you’re applying for.
Apply to the Province: Submit your application directly to the provincial program.
Receive a Provincial Nomination: If successful, you’ll receive a nomination certificate.
Apply for Permanent Residency: Use your nomination to apply for permanent residency through IRCC.
Tips for Success
Tailor Your Application: Customize your profile to meet the specific needs of the province.
Stay Updated: Monitor provincial and federal immigration updates to identify new opportunities.
Enhance Your Skills: Improve your language test scores or gain experience in high-demand fields.
Seek Professional Guidance: Immigration consultants or lawyers can provide valuable assistance.
The Canada-US-Mexico (CUSMA) free trade agreement
Professionals permit allows qualified US citizens to work in Canada for up to three years.
Study Permits
Obtaining a study permit for an accredited Canadian educational institution is a common way to gain entry. International students can work part-time and may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after their studies, leading to valuable Canadian work experience that aids in permanent residency applications (e.g. through the Canadian Experience Class)
STUDY PERMIT: If accepted into a Canadian school, you may be eligible for a study permit to live and study in Canada. LEARN MORE
POST GRADUATE WORK PERMIT (PGWP): After completing a qualifying program, you may be eligible for a PGWP to work in Canada for up to three years. LEARN MORE
WORKING WHILE STUDYING: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
Visitor Permits
You can typically stay in Canada as a visitor for up to six months as long as you can prove that your stay is temporary and that you have the financial means to support yourself. The border agent must believe you intend to leave the country within 6 months. In some cases, your passport will be stamped at the border, with a date to indicate a more limited duration.
While in Canada, you may apply for a longer stay (including beyond 6 months). You will need to show that you have the means to support yourself without income for the increased duration, and that you do not intend to stay in Canada longer than you are authorized.
