Permanent Residence
How Express Entry works
Express Entry is an online system that is used to manage immigration applications from skilled workers.
There are 3 immigration programs managed through Express Entry:
There are 3 immigration programs managed through Express Entry:
- for skilled workers with foreign work experience
- must meet criteria for education and other factors
- for skilled workers who are qualified in a skilled trade
- must have a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification
If you are not eligible for Express Entry now, there are ways to improve your score. Provincial Nomination Programs may recommend you. Each province has its own criteria.
What permanent residents can do
As a permanent resident, you have the right to:
- get most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, including health care coverage,
- live, work or study anywhere in Canada,
- apply for Canadian citizenship,
- protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
What permanent residents cannot do:
vote or run for political office,
hold some jobs that need a high-level security clearance.
Time Lived in Canada
To keep your permanent resident status, you must have been in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.
These 730 days don’t need to be continuous. Some of your time abroad may count towards the 730 days.
Applying for Permanent Residency under the Humanitarian and Compassionate program
People who would not normally be eligible to become permanent residents of Canada may be able to apply on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.