Canada is one of the top immigration destinations due to its high quality of life, job opportunities, and transparent immigration system. Many individuals residing in Canada on temporary status seek to transition to permanent residency. This article, prepared by ITCILand, provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of all aspects of converting temporary residence to permanent residence in Canada, especially through skilled worker programs (Express Entry) for individuals inside and outside Canada. It also addresses specific cases of those who entered with a tourist visa and received a 3-year temporary residence.
What Is Temporary Residence in Canada?
Temporary residence refers to the status that allows non-Canadians to stay in Canada for a limited time. It includes three main categories:
- Tourists: Individuals entering Canada on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
- Students: Holders of a Study Permit.
- Workers: Holders of a Work Permit.
Tourist visas usually allow short stays (up to 6 months), but some may extend or change their status (e.g., to a work or study permit) and stay longer, sometimes up to 3 years. These individuals must meet the eligibility requirements of immigration programs to transition to permanent residency.
Pathways to Convert Temporary to Permanent Residence
Individuals with temporary status in Canada can apply for permanent residence through several immigration programs, including:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with strong professional skills, inside or outside Canada.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): For those with in-demand skills in specific provinces.
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ): For individuals who studied or worked in Quebec.
- Family Sponsorship: For those with close relatives who are Canadian permanent residents or citizens.
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): For skilled workers and graduates in Atlantic provinces.
- Caregiver Programs: For caregivers of children, seniors, or disabled individuals.
Note for Tourist Visa Holders with 3-Year Stay
A tourist visa does not independently grant a 3-year stay. If someone entered Canada with a tourist visa and now has 3-year temporary status, they likely changed their status to a work or study permit. These individuals may apply through programs like CEC (if they have Canadian work experience) or PNPs.
Skilled Worker Programs (Express Entry)
Express Entry is an online system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for skilled worker immigration applications. It includes three main programs:
1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
For skilled professionals with strong qualifications. To be eligible, applicants must score at least 67 out of 100 in the federal points grid, which evaluates:
- Age: Maximum points for ages 20–29.
- Education: Higher education earns more points.
- Work Experience: At least 1 year of skilled experience in the last 10 years.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 7 in English or French.
- Adaptability: Job offers or Canadian experience grant extra points.
2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For individuals with at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3). Key requirements:
- Work Experience: 12 months full-time (or part-time equivalent) in the past 3 years.
- Language Skills: CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs; CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3.
- Intent to Reside: Must plan to live outside Quebec.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For skilled tradespeople with certification. Requirements include:
- Work Experience: 2 years full-time (or equivalent part-time) within the last 5 years in NOC groups 72, 73, 82, 83, 92, or 93.
- Certification: Trade certification from a Canadian authority or valid job offer.
- Language Proficiency: CLB 5 in speaking and listening; CLB 4 in reading and writing.
PNPs Aligned with Express Entry
Many PNPs align with Express Entry, especially for those with Canadian work or study experience in a specific province. For example:
- Ontario: International students or skilled workers.
- British Columbia: International graduates.
Steps to Apply for PR Through Express Entry
- Check Eligibility: Use IRCC’s online tool.
- Create Express Entry Profile: Enter personal, education, work, and language details.
- Calculate CRS Score: Score is based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (up to 1,200 points).
- Receive ITA: Top-ranking candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITA).
- Submit Documents: Within 60 days of receiving ITA, submit ID documents, language test results, ECA, and proof of funds.
- Application Processing: Processing times vary by program; check IRCC’s site for updates.
Required Documents
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months |
| Language Test Results | IELTS or CELPIP (English), TEF (French) |
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | For foreign degrees, from agencies like WES |
| Proof of Funds | Evidence you can support yourself and your family |
| Police Certificate | From countries where you lived for over 6 months |
| Medical Exam | From IRCC-approved doctors |
| Job Offer (if any) | Official letter from a Canadian employer |
Application Fees
| Category | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Main Applicant | 1,525 |
| Spouse | 1,525 |
| Each Dependent Child | 260 |
Benefits of Permanent Residency
- Access to Services: Including free healthcare and education.
- Freedom to Work and Live: Anywhere in Canada (except Quebec for some programs).
- Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible after 3 years of PR.
- Visa-Free Travel: To many countries with a Canadian passport.
Limitations and Key Notes
- Tourist Visas and 3-Year Stay: Tourist visas typically grant short stays. A 3-year stay likely means status was changed to a work or study permit. CEC or PNPs are best options here.
- Risk of Rejection: Incomplete documents, lack of financial proof, or failure to meet program criteria can lead to refusal.
- Temporary Status Extension: If your temporary status is expiring, extend it to remain in Canada during your PR process.
Common Reasons for Application Refusal
- Incomplete or invalid documents.
- Lack of financial proof or income source.
- Mismatch between work experience and NOC requirements.
- Medical or criminal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for PR directly with a tourist visa? No. You must change your status to work or study first.
- Is Canadian work experience necessary for Express Entry? No, it’s not required for FSWP but is necessary for CEC.
- How can I increase my CRS score? Improve language skills, pursue higher education, or secure a valid job offer.
- Are PNPs better for people inside Canada? Yes, many PNPs are tailored for those who have worked or studied in a province.
Why Apply Through ITCILand?
ITCILand has years of experience in Canadian immigration and offers specialized services for obtaining permanent residency through Express Entry and PNPs. We support you through every step—from profile creation to PR approval. Contact us or visit our website for a consultation.
