Last Updated On : June 22 , 2024
When applying for permanent residency in Canada, Americans have similar possibilities to those of foreign nationals. The primary programs are as follows:
Immigration Program |
Details |
Express Entry |
The federal economic immigration program manages applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class, with the highest-scoring candidates based on the age, education, work experience, language proficiency and adaptability invited for permanent residence. |
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) |
Canadian provinces and territories have PNPs, which nominate immigrants to meet local labour market needs. These PNPs offer both enhanced and base streams for applicants. |
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) |
Stream within Express Entry for skilled workers with recent Canadian work experience. Ideal for Americans who have already worked in Canada under a work permit. |
Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program |
Skilled workers can apply to this program and obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate to apply for permanent residency. |
Atlantic Immigration Program |
Permits immigration for individuals with job experience from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador and graduates from Atlantic Canadian universities. |
Start-Up Visa |
To establish a new business in Canada and can secure support from a designated organisation. |
Family Sponsorship |
Individuals (Canadian Citizens/ Permanent residents) living in Canada can sponsor their blood relatives or partners. |
Caregiver Programs |
For Child Care, elderly care or those with medical needs. |
Refugee and Humanitarian Programs |
Through programmes that are funded by the business sector, the government, and blended visa offices, Canada welcomes refugees. |
The Express Entry program is the most popular route for qualified workers to become Permanent Residents (PR) in Canada. Below is the breakdown of the steps.
Candidates are ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and the highest-ranking applicants are invited to apply for permanent residence.
A permanent resident visa and the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) are the results of the processing, which takes six to twelve months.
Only those who have received an invitation to apply are eligible for Express Entry to apply for permanent residence.
The purpose of the Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP) is to allow skilled, educated and experienced people to live in a province and obtain permanent residency in Canada while also boosting the economy of that province.
NOTE: The cost is generally $1,525, and the processing time is 11 months.
On The Basis Of |
Benefit for Business Owners |
Program Type |
Permanent Residency |
Target Audience |
Innovative Entrepreneurs |
Key Advantage |
Fast track to permanent residency for you and your team |
Job Offer Requirement |
Not needed |
Government Support |
Access to funding programs, mentorship, and business networks |
Eligibility Criteria |
* Innovative Business Idea with High Growth Potential * Relevant Entrepreneurial Experience * Support from a Designated Canadian Organization (Investor, VC Firm, or Incubator) * Sufficient Financial Resources |
Application Steps |
1. Connect with Designated Organizations 2. Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan 3. Prepare Application and Gather Documents |
Step |
Description |
1. Check Eligibility |
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the program you want to pursue. |
2. Choose a Program |
Select a graduate program that aligns with your interests and career goals. |
3. Meet Admission Requirements |
Review the admission requirements for your chosen program, including language proficiency, academic background, and other tests. |
4. Apply Online |
Submit your application through the university's online portal. |
5. Provide Supporting Documents |
Upload required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. |
6. Pay Application Fees |
Pay the application fee, which varies by university. |
7. Wait for Admission |
Wait for the admission decision, which can take several weeks to several months. |
Program |
Type |
Duration of Stay |
Description |
Work Permit |
Temporary |
Varies (usually up to 4 years) |
Unless exempt, requires a job offer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). could result in permanent residency. |
Program |
Explanation |
Processing Time |
Eligibility Requirements |
Federal Skilled Worker Program |
Permanent residence for skilled workers with work experience and language proficiency |
6 months |
1 year of full-time paid work experience, TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3, language proficiency, education, age, and settlement funds |
Canadian Experience Class |
Permanent residence for skilled workers with Canadian work experience |
6 months |
12 months of full-time, skilled work experience in Canada within the previous 3 years |
Federal Skilled Trades Program |
Permanent residence for skilled trades workers |
6 months |
2 years of work experience in a skilled trade, offer of full-time employment or certificate of qualification |
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) |
Provincial programs for skilled workers to fill local labour market needs |
Varies |
Varies by province |
Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program |
Permanent residence for skilled workers in Quebec |
Varies |
12 months of full-time, skilled work experience in Quebec within the previous 2 years, advanced intermediate knowledge of oral French |
Atlantic Immigration Program |
Permanent residence for skilled workers from Atlantic Canada |
Varies |
Job experience from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador, or graduates from Atlantic Canadian universities |
Start-Up Visa |
Permanent residence for entrepreneurs establishing a new business in Canada |
Varies |
Support from a designated organization, business plan, and sufficient funds |
Now that you have compared all the details about the Canadian immigration program, including eligibility criteria, processing time, and other essential details, it's important to consider the immigration fees for these programs. Understanding the fees can help you take the next step in your immigration journey.
Program |
Cost; |
Federal Skilled Worker Program |
CAD 1500 - 3000 |
Canadian Experience Class |
CAD 1000 - 2000 |
Federal Skilled Trades Program |
CAD 1000 - 2000 |
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) |
CAD 1500 - 4000 |
Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program |
CAD 2000 - 4000 |
Atlantic Immigration Program |
CAD 1000 - 2000 |
Start-Up Visa |
Differs Significantly |
NOTE: The actual cost differs according to individual circumstances.