Express Entry is Canada’s fastest and most popular pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). If you are eligible for one of these three programs, you can also apply through Express Entry for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). If you are nominated, you will get extra points so you can be invited to apply quickly.
Applicants are assessed based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. Those with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residency, typically with a relatively short processing time. While a job offer is not mandatory, applicants must prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves.
Canada’s Spousal Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residency. Designed to prioritize family reunification, this program simplifies the process for eligible applicants. Sponsors and their partners must provide evidence of their relationship and meet all eligibility requirements.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces and territories in Canada to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on local labour market needs. PNP streams vary by province and may target skilled workers, international graduates, or business owners. Some streams are aligned with Express Entry, offering additional CRS points to applicants, while others use separate point-based systems.
PNP streams are currently available in the following Canadian provinces:
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is a community-driven program aimed at attracting foreign workers to rural and smaller communities in Canada. Applicants with a valid job offer in participating communities may qualify for an RNIP Work Permit, which supports the settlement of skilled workers in regions experiencing labour shortages.
The pilot that ended on 31st August 2024 shall be transformed into a permanent residency pathway in 2025.
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from a Canadian institution who want to work and live in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces—New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. This program supports employers in filling job vacancies when no local candidates are available.
