How to Apply for Permanent Residence in Canada from Outside Canada
Last Updated On : April 03 , 2025
Canada remains a top destination for skilled workers and international students seeking permanent residency (PR). With its strong economy, high quality of life, and immigrant-friendly policies, Canada offers several immigration pathways for those applying from outside the country.
Here are some specific steps for moving to Canada from Bahrain, Poland, Mexico, South Korea, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and other countries.
Finding the Best Immigration Program While You Are Outside Canada
Choosing the right immigration pathway is crucial. Canada offers multiple programs under which skilled workers and international graduates can apply for PR. Here’s how you can determine the best option for you:
1. Express Entry System (For Skilled Workers)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
Requires at least one year of skilled work experience, language proficiency, and a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
Ideal for individuals in skilled trades, requiring job offers or certifications.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
For those who have Canadian work experience (not applicable for applicants outside Canada).
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Each province has its own nominee program with different criteria.
- Applicants with job offers or ties to a province may receive additional CRS points.
3. Study and Transition to PR
International students can apply for a study permit, gain Canadian experience, and transition through Express Entry or PNP.
4. Family Sponsorship
If you have a close relative who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you.
5. Start-up Visa & Business Immigration
Entrepreneurs and investors can apply under these programs if they plan to start or invest in a business in Canada.
Why Choose Canada Over Other Countries for Immigration?
| Factor | Canada | USA | Australia |
| Immigration Policies | Transparent, point-based | Unpredictable, long wait times | Strict quotas, complex rules |
| Job Opportunities | Strong demand in IT, healthcare, and engineering | H1B restrictions limit opportunities | Limited PR pathways, high job competition |
| Quality of Life | Free healthcare, high safety | Expensive healthcare, safety concerns | Expensive housing, strict work regulations |
| PR to Citizenship | Fast-track PR to citizenship in 3-5 years | Green Card backlog delays citizenship | PR process takes longer with more conditions |
Poland
People move to Canada from Poland for various reasons such as better opportunities for their families, work-life balance, education, or to be part of a larger economy, which is more closely linked with the United States.
Singapore
Many individuals wish to migrate from Singapore to Canada ; it could be for a superior future or searching for better open positions, or for concentrating on further or giving an exemplary life to their families.
Mexico
Moving to Canada from Mexico can be challenging, but with the right immigration guide, you can learn about the prerequisites for applying for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR).
Sweden
To participate in the Express Entry Program to migrate to Canada on Skilled Migration, an expat residing in Sweden or a Swedish citizen must first qualify for an acceptable vocation and then prepare to access the Canadian Express Entry Pool of Candidates.
Malaysia
As the Canadian economy keeps developing, the demand for professional workers also increases. Many individuals are planning to move to Canada from Malaysia.
Jamaica
Clean living paired with incomparable outdoor wildness and winter sports options is among the many reasons Jamaicans migrate to Canada . For some skilled immigrants relocating to Canada from Jamaica, it is to reunite with family through the Family Sponsorship Program.
Romania
Consider the Canada Express Entry program for immigrants from Romania to Canada . It offers a streamlined application process and efficient selection system for skilled workers and professionals to settle in Canada.
Kenya
The Express Entry system is the most commonly used immigration pathway for Kenyan workers seeking to live and work in Canada. Candidates for Express Entry are sent ITAs based on their rankings in the bi-weekly Express Entry draw rounds.
Africa
Immigrants who move to Canada from Africa settle in Vancouver, British Columbia, Toronto as they feel comfortable and have company. There are a plethora of reasons for them to move to Canada from South Africa.
Turkey
People aspire to immigrate to Canada from Turkey for various reasons, including providing a better future for their family, achieving a better work-life balance, completing their education, or simply escaping the chaos of city life.
Bahrain
Moving to Canada from Bahrain is a big step filled with exciting opportunities. Whether you’re a student, an expatriate, or a skilled worker looking for opportunities in Canada, PAIC can assist you with Canadian immigration programs.
Germany
Hundreds of thousands of German citizens have moved to Canada in recent years. There are many routes to achieving Canadian permanent residency visas for German citizens.
South Korea
Korean citizens can immigrate to Canada through various programs, such as study permits, express entry programs, and Provincial Nominee Programs.
New Zealand
Express Entry is the top choice for immigrating to Canada from New Zealand due to its swift processing times, typically ranging from 4 to 8 months.
Sri Lanka
To move to Canada from Sri Lanka, you'll typically need to apply for a visa or residency permit through programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or Family Sponsorship.
Hong Kong
There are multiple pathways for moving to Canada from Hong Kong , including Express Entry, Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program and other Business Immigration programs.
India
Moving to Canada from India can be a challenging decision due to the numerous immigration programs available, with the most commonly selected program being the Express Entry program.
The Canada PR visa is a common choice for people wishing to relocate to Canada. Many people have attempted to move to Canada because of its immigrant-friendly policies and the government’s advocacy for migrants to come and establish themselves here.
Aside from that, relocating to Canada promises a peaceful lifestyle and adequate living circumstances. There are several professional prospects available and the promise of personal independence. Obtaining a Permanent Resident (PR) visa is one option for moving to Canada. A PR visa will provide you with permanent residence status. A PR visa has a five-year validity period and can be renewed.
Key Takeaways
- Identify the best immigration program based on your qualifications.
- Express Entry is the fastest route for skilled workers.
- PNP is ideal for those with ties to a province.
- Canada’s immigration policies are more favorable compared to the US and Australia.
Prepare strong documentation to improve your application success.
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