Permanent residency
Economic immigration
Canada offers several pathways to permanent residence for people with the skills, experience, and profile needed to contribute to the country’s economy. These programs are managed by the federal government but may also involve participation from provinces such as Quebec.
Permanent Residence and the Role of the Provinces
Although permanent residence is granted by the federal government, some provinces (including Quebec) play a central role in selecting candidates who wish to settle within their territory. Each province can define its own economic priorities and establish its own selection criteria.
Main Economic Immigration Programs
Here are the main programs that allow applicants to obtain permanent residence under economic immigration:
- Express Entry
This system includes several federal programs such as:
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program
- The Canadian Experience Class
Note: This program excludes the province of Quebec.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each province (except Quebec) can nominate candidates based on its specific economic needs. A provincial nomination can significantly increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program
To settle in Quebec, a candidate must first obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), issued under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ).
Keeping up with Program Changes
Eligibility criteria, selection thresholds, and even program availability may change depending on labor market needs and government policy. It is therefore essential to regularly reassess your eligibility or immigration strategy to stay up to date.
Need a Profile Assessment?
We can help you identify the most suitable economic program for your situation, help you build a solid file and anticipate the processing times and regulatory changes.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a personalized evaluation.
Family Sponsorship
The family sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain family members so they can obtain permanent residence in Canada. It is a fundamental pillar of the Canadian immigration system, aimed at supporting family reunification.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
Family members eligible for sponsorship include:
- A spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner
- Dependent children
- Parents and grandparents
- In certain exceptional cases: other close relatives (orphaned siblings, nieces/nephews, etc.)
Spouses and common-law partners
A Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada can sponsor their partner, whether they live in Canada or abroad.
- Inland sponsorship: The sponsored person can apply for permanent residence while staying in Canada and may be eligible for an open work permit during the processing of their application.
- Outland sponsorship: Also referred to as family reunification, this process is for couples living apart. Proving the genuiness of the relationship is a central part of the application.
Procedures and dedlines may vary depending on the province of residence, especially if the couple intends to settle in Quebec, where a formal undertaking is required.
Visitor Visa for Overseas Partners
Due to sometimes lengthy processing times, a partner living abroad may be eligible for a temporary visitor visa with priority processing, allowing them to reunite with their partner in Canada while the sponsorship application is being processed.
Parents and Grandparents
Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada may also sponsor their parents or grandparents, provided they meet the eligibility criteria set by IRCC. The program operates on an invitation basis: applicants must first express their interest and then wait to be invited to apply.
As this program opens periodically and is subject to an annual cap, it is advisable to closely monitor official announcements and reassess eligibility regularly.
Super Visa
In addition to the sponsorship program, the Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit their family in Canada for extended periods (up to 5 years per stay, with the possibility of extension). This visa is valid for 10 years and requires, among other things, proof of medical insurance and financial support.
Support at every stage
Sponsorship procedures require thorough documentation, strategic planning, and, in some cases, coordination between federal and provincial authorities.
Whether you want to sponsor a loved one, reunite your family, or clarify your eligibility, we are here to support you at every step of the process—with professionalism and care.
Contact us for a confidential evaluation of your situation.
