Benefits of Getting Permanent Residence in Canada

Are you thinking about making the big move to Canada? If you are, you may have also wondered what the advantages of getting permanent residency in the Great White North are. From access to healthcare and education to the stability of its booming economy, Canada provides a promising environment for individuals and families alike. Getting permanent residency opens doors to eventual citizenship, giving you the full rights and privileges of a Canadian citizen.

Gain a better understanding of what Canada offers by learning about the benefits of getting permanent residence in Canada.

Live And Work Anywhere in Canada

Unlike temporary residents tied to specific locations by work permits or study visas, permanent residents enjoy the benefits of freedom of movement in Canada. This translates to the ability to live, work, or study in any province or territory across Canada's regions. By becoming a permanent resident in Canada, you can be a young entrepreneur starting a business in the heart of Vancouver's tech hub, then settle down to a quieter life in Prince Edward Island to raise a family in the future.

A Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) report found that 72% of businesses reported difficulty finding skilled workers, highlighting the demand for talent across diverse regions. Canadian permanent residency provides access to this nationwide job market, allowing individuals to use their qualifications and contribute to Canada's economic growth.

Access to World-class Healthcare And Social Services in Canada

Canada's universal healthcare system, Medicare, is a major part of Canada's national identity and a significant draw for potential permanent residents. Permanent residents are entitled to coverage under the national health insurance program, granting them access to medically necessary services like:

• Doctor visits,
• Hospital care,
• Diagnostics, and
• Specialist consultations.

This eliminates the expensive medical bills often faced in other countries, ensuring peace of mind regarding healthcare costs. The Commonwealth Fund's ranking of healthcare systems placed Canada tenth globally, highlighting its high standard of care and reduced wait times compared to many developed nations. This translates to improved health outcomes and greater well-being for permanent residents and their families.

Beyond healthcare, Canadian permanent residents also access social services like unemployment insurance, parental leave benefits, and social security programs administered by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This robust social safety net, accessed via a Social Insurance Number (SIN), provides security and support, allowing individuals to focus on building a better life without fear of financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances.

Learn more about healthcare in Canada.

Pursue Affordable Educational Opportunities in Canada

For individuals looking to enhance their educational qualifications or equip themselves with new skills, Canadian permanent residency unlocks significant advantages. Permanent residents qualify for domestic tuition rates at public universities and colleges across Canada. This can represent a substantial cost saving compared to the often steeper international student fees. EduCanada revealed that international student tuition fees can be more than triple those for domestic students.

This cost advantage allows permanent residents to pursue higher education without significant debt. Canadian permanent residents gain access to a wider range of financial aid options, including government loans and scholarships, making higher education more accessible. Scholarships you can access as a permanent resident in Canada include:

• Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program,
• Faculty Mobility For Partnership Building Program,
• Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarships Program, and
• Organization of American States (OAS) - Professional Development Scholarships Program.

This affordability creates a culture of lifelong learning and empowers permanent residents to invest in their futures, contributing to a more skilled and competitive workforce within Canada.

Learn more about how much does it costs to study in Canada.

Path to Canadian Citizenship

Canadian permanent residency serves as a stepping stone toward Canadian citizenship. After meeting residency requirements and fulfilling other eligibility criteria, permanent residents can apply for citizenship. Canadian citizenship provides full political rights, including voting in federal and provincial elections and running for public office.

It also allows visa-free travel to many countries and eliminates the need to renew permanent resident status. Canadian citizenship represents the ultimate goal for those looking for full integration into Canadian society and a voice in shaping the country's future. It allows you to actively participate in the democratic process in Canada and contribute to the nation's social and cultural development.

Learn more about how to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Stability And Security in Canada

Permanent residency offers stability and security, crucial for building a fulfilling life. Permanent residents are subject to Canadian law and enjoy the protections enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

This includes fundamental rights like freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. According to Statistics Canada, the country's low unemployment rate of 6.1 % further ensures your stability as an indicator to find full-time, permanent job opportunities in Canada reliably.

Canada's strong social safety net also supports those facing unemployment, illness, or disability. This combination of legal protections, social programs, and job opportunities in Canada creates a sense of security. It allows permanent residents to focus on building a better life for themselves and their families.

Sponsor Family for Immigration to Canada

Canadian permanent residency opens doors for family reunification. Permanent residents can sponsor their close family members, such as spouses, children, and parents, to immigrate to Canada. This allows families to build a life together in a safe and supportive environment. The sponsorship process strengthens family bonds and creates a sense of security for sponsored family members, knowing they have a permanent home in Canada.

According to a report by IRCC, family reunification is one of the primary objectives of Canada's immigration system. This reflects the government's commitment to creating strong family ties and building a vibrant, inclusive society.

Learn the five steps to apply for Canada Family Sponsorship.

How Can I Get Permanent Residency in Canada?

You can get permanent residency in Canada through several immigration pathways, including the Express Entry system, which prioritizes skilled workers based on:

• Age,
• Education,
• Work experience, and
• Language proficiency.

Learn more about how the Express Entry system is the fastest way to immigrate to Canada.

Provincial Nominee Programs

Another option is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), where provinces and territories nominate individuals with the skills and experience to contribute to their local economies. 

Learn how the Provincial Nominee Program works.

Immigration Pilots

Various immigration pilots target specific labor market needs and facilitate Canadian permanent residency for eligible candidates. This includes the:

• Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP),
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP),
• Agri-Food Pilot, and
• Homecare Provider Pilots.

Family Sponsorship

Canada family sponsorship is another route, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their relatives for permanent residency immigration to Canada. 

Business Immigration Programs

Canadian business immigration programs, like the Self-employed program and Start-up Visa, attract entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who can contribute to Canada's economy and create employment opportunities.

Each pathway has its own eligibility criteria and application procedures, offering diverse opportunities for individuals looking for permanent residency in Canada.

Learn more tips to prepare for your Canadian permanent residency application.

FAQs

How Long After Becoming a Permanent Resident Can I Apply for Citizenship?

In Canada, you can apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements, typically three out of the last five years before your application. This means you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the five years preceding your application.

Can Permanent Residents Travel Outside of Canada?

Yes, permanent residents of Canada can travel outside of the country. However, they must ensure their Permanent Resident (PR) Card or Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is valid before departing. Maintaining a significant physical presence in Canada is essential to avoid any risk of losing permanent resident status due to prolonged absences.

How do Permanent Residents Lose Their Status?

Permanent residents may lose their status in Canada if they fail to comply with residency obligations, such as not spending enough time in the country over a specified period. Other reasons for losing permanent resident status include criminal activity leading to deportation orders or voluntarily renouncing permanent residency through formal procedures with IRCC.