Applying for Canadian Permanent Residency from Abroad

If you are considering resettling in Canada but are currently not in the country, you may wonder if it is possible to apply for permanent residency (PR) from your current location.

Yes, you can apply for PR from a different country, provided that you meet the eligibility criteria and requirements of the specific immigration program you wish to apply through. Canada offers several avenues for individuals to apply for PR, including the Express Entry system, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the Family Class Sponsorship program, and the Quebec-selected skilled workers program.

Eligibility and Requirements

The application process for PR from outside Canada involves:

Meeting the eligibility criteria of the specific immigration program you are applying through Submitting the required documentation electronically or via mail to the appropriate immigration authorities Undergoing medical examinations and security checks

Each immigration program has its own unique set of requirements and procedures. It is crucial to review the guidelines provided by each program to ensure you have all the necessary information and documentation.

Eligibility for PR from Outside Canada

To be eligible to apply for PR from outside Canada, you must meet the specific requirements of the PR program you are applying through. The general eligibility criteria usually include:

Minimum age Language proficiency in English or French Education and work experience Provincial nomination (for some PNP programs) Criminal clearance and medical examination

For example, under the Express Entry system, the criteria to be considered when applying for federal skilled worker programs include official language proficiency, education, and work experience. Similarly, the PNP programs require a regional intake and nomination process, while the Family Class Sponsorship program requires sponsorship from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Physical Presence Requirement

It's important to note that, once approved for PR, you must meet the physical presence requirement to be eligible for a PR card. This means you must be physically present in Canada and meet the residency obligation criteria. A PR card cannot be delivered overseas to allow for PR re-entry into Canada.

Upon landing in Canada as a permanent resident, you will be free to enter and exit the country just like any other resident of Canada. However, you must spend at least 730 days in Canada within a rolling five-year period to maintain your permanent resident status.

To summarize, while it is possible to apply for PR from outside Canada, you must meet the specific eligibility criteria and requirements of the PR program you are applying through. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation and follow the application process carefully to ensure success.

Good luck with your application!