As an applicant for permanent residence
Currently there are several pathways to achieve Canadian permanent residence. The most important programs include:
Highly Skilled Workers / Express Entry
This is by far the most widely used procedure. Express Entry was introduced in 2015 so that candidates for permanent residence can apply on the basis of a points system designed to improve equity and reduce discretion. The factors considered are education, knowledge of official languages, work experience, age, job offer and adaptability. It covers the following programs:
Canadian Experience Class
Only candidates who have worked legally in Canada for at least one year, within the last three, in a highly skilled occupation can participate in this program.
Federal Skilled Trades Program
This program is for people with high technical qualifications in specific fields, namely: industrial, electrical, construction; equipment maintenance / operation; natural resources, agriculture and manufacturing; as well as chefs, cooks, butchers and bakers.
Provincial nomination programs
Canadian provinces and territories can nominate skilled workers and business persons to receive permanent resident status as long as they intend to settle in a particular province.
Federal Skilled Workers Program
This category applies to candidates with a professional background in highly qualified activities, according to the National Occupational Classification of Canada (NOC).
Pilot programs
Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
For skilled workers and foreign graduates in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program
In order to strengthen smaller communities, especially those in rural areas, successful candidates can be recommended for permanent residence by the community itself.
Agri-food immigration pilot program
This program is specific to the meat processing, animal husbandry, green housing and mushroom production sectors.
