Canada offers various residence and work permits, primarily through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) requiring an LMIA, or the International Mobility Program (IMP). Key options include employer-specific work permits, open work permits for spouses/students, and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Applications are processed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Residence Permit Types

Temporary Resident Visa/Permit:

A Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Permit (TRP) allows foreign nationals to enter or stay in Canada for a temporary purpose (visit, work, study). A TRV is a visa sticker for non-exempt visitors, usually allowing a 6-month stay. A TRP is for inadmissible individuals to enter legally for up to 3 years.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) / Visitor Visa

• Purpose: Authorized entry for tourists, workers, and students who are not visa-exempt.

• Validity: Usually for 6 months, though border officers may determine a different duration.

• Application: Must be applied for online, often requiring biometrics, and is placed in the passport.

• Permanent Residents: Cannot get a TRV; they must use a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if their card is invalid.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)

• Purpose: Allows individuals who are technically inadmissible (due to health, criminality, or security issues) to enter or remain in Canada.

• Validity: Can be issued for one day up to three years.

• Conditions: Holders must comply with specific conditions, such as not working or studying without authorization.

Key Differences

• TRV is for standard, admissible travellers (or visa-exempt individuals needing an eTA).

• TRP is specifically for individuals who would otherwise be denied entry (inadmissible).

Permanent Residence (PR)

Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) allows foreign nationals to live and work anywhere in Canada, enjoying most social benefits (including healthcare) and the ability to apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements. Key pathways include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and Family Sponsorship. Applicants must generally reside in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period to maintain status.

Main Application Pathways

• Express Entry: A system that manages applications for permanent residence for skilled workers.

• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): A program allowing provinces and territories to nominate individuals who have the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to their local economy.

• Family Sponsorship: A route for citizens or PRs to sponsor spouses, partners, children, or parents.

Key Aspects of Canadian PR

• Rights & Benefits: Permanent residents can work or study, receive most social benefits (including health care coverage), and are protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

• Obligations: PRs must pay taxes and respect all Canadian laws. They do not have the right to vote or hold certain high-level security jobs.

• PR Card Validity: The PR card is generally valid for five years.

• Maintaining Status: To keep your PR status, you must be in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within a 5-year period.

• Applying for Citizenship: You can apply for citizenship once you have been physically present in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 3 years (1,095 days) out of the 5 years immediately preceding your application.