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June 6, 2024Canada stands out as a premier destination for those contemplating relocation, and for good reasons.
The country offers a multitude of advantages, including an enhanced lifestyle and excellent educational opportunities.
In response to a labor deficit and an aging population, Canada has set ambitious immigration targets, aiming to welcome 485,000 new immigrants in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025.
Notably, the Canadian Immigration Department has already surpassed annual permanent resident records for 2021, 2022, and 2023.
Given the diverse profiles of individuals, it’s crucial to choose the immigration method that aligns best with your circumstances.
Relocating to Canada involves various pathways, each tailored to specific needs. Although there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, the current high immigration targets make it an opportune moment to embark on your immigration journey.
Explore the following popular avenues for Canadian permanent residency in 2024:
Express Entry (EE)
The Express Entry (EE) system stands out as the swiftest and widely preferred pathway to attain Canadian permanent residency, especially for skilled foreign nationals seeking to work and settle in Canada.
A noteworthy advantage of this program is the potential to secure permanent residency within a mere six months upon receiving an invitation to apply.
Looking ahead to 2025, Canada aims to embrace 500,000 newcomers annually, with a substantial portion, comprising 110,770 individuals, entering through one of the three Express Entry programs.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- The Canadian Experience Class (CEC
Canada offers various pathways for individuals to relocate, and understanding these options can significantly enhance your immigration journey.
The Express Entry system remains the quickest route for Canadian permanent residency, with programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Recent updates in 2022 expanded eligible occupations, making it even more accessible.
To enter the EE pool, eligible applicants must create an online profile, which is then assigned a score by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). High-scoring candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency. Although meeting CRS cut-offs can be challenging, just being in the pool increases your chances, as some provinces may nominate you.
For a single candidate, the cost of immigrating through Express Entry is approximately $2,300 CAD, while couples may incur around $4,500 CAD.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs provide an alternative path, with each province offering its own program, such as the Alberta Advantage Immigrant Program (AAIP), British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP), and others. By 2025, Canada aims to welcome 110,000 newcomers through PNPs. Eligibility requirements vary, with some programs requiring a connection to the province or an employment offer.
- Alberta Advantage Immigrant Program (AAIP)
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
- New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
- Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (NSPNP)
- Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
- Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
- Quebec Skilled Workers Program (QSWP)
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
- Yukon Nominee Program (YNP
PNP application costs align with Express Entry, but additional expenses may vary by province. For instance, Ontario may charge up to $1,500 CAD for processing.
Business Immigration
Entrepreneurs can consider business immigration programs, with Canada set to welcome 5,000 newcomers through business initiatives in 2024. The Start-Up Visa is a common entry point, requiring a qualifying business idea and support from designated entities.
Provincial Business Programs within PNPs and the federal Self-Employed Program offer additional options for business-minded individuals.
Family Sponsorship
Canada prioritizes family reunification, allowing permanent residents and citizens to sponsor relatives. Spouses, partners, and children can be sponsored, with plans to welcome 82,000 newcomers in 2024. Processing times take about a year, and work permits may be available during the application process.
Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship operates through a lottery system, expected to open for new sponsors in 2024. While awaiting sponsorship opportunities, prospective sponsors can explore the Super Visa for temporary stays.
Understanding the diverse immigration avenues and associated costs can guide you towards the most suitable path for your relocation to Canada.