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35 VISA-FREE Countries for Canadian PR Holders [2024 Edition]

Updated: February 11, 2024 Leave a Comment

As a Canadian PR card holder, you can enjoy VISA-FREE travel to certain countries. As of 2024, there are 35 VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders. This includes Mexico, countries in the Caribbean, Central America, Europe and Asia.

In this article, you will learn which countries Canadian permanent residents can travel to without visa along with the duration of stay and entry requirements for those countries.

So without further due, let’s get started.

What are the visa-free countries for canadian pr holders in 2024.

The VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders in 2024 are:

Anguilla (British Territory) (90 days)
Antigua and Barbuda (30 days)
Armenia (VOA for 21 or 120 days, select nationalities only)
Aruba (30 days)
Bahamas (30 days)
Belize (30 days)
Bermuda (British Territory) (30 days)
Bonaire (Dutch Territory) (90 days)
Cayman Islands (British Territory) (30 days)
Costa Rica (30 days)
Curaçao (90 days)
Dominican Republic (90 days)
El Salvador (90 days)
Georgia (90 days)
Guatemala (90 days)
Honduras (90 days)
Japan (eVisa, 90 days)
Jordan (eVisa, 90 days)
Mexico (180 days or less)
Moldova (90 days)
Montenegro (30 days)
Morocco (eVisa, 90 days)
Nicaragua (VOA, 30 days)
Oman (VOA for 30 days, select nationalities only)
Panama (30 days)
Peru (180 days)
Philippines (14 days, India only)
Qatar (eVisa, 30 days)
Singapore (96 hours TWOV, India and China only)
Sint Maarten (30 days)
South Korea (30 days while transiting, select nationalities only)
Taiwan (eTA, 14 days, select nationalities only)
Thailand (eVisa, 60 days)
Turks and Caicos (British Territory) (90 days)
United Kingdom (24-hour entry while transiting)

How many countries you can visit with Canadian PR?

In 2024, you can visit 35 countries with a Canadian PR without requiring a separate visa. Your Canadian permanent resident card must be valid and should be accompanied by a valid passport from your country. Here are the requirements in short.

Must hold a valid Canada Permanent Resident card
Must hold a valid passport from your country of nationality
Must be from an eligible nationality and must follow entry requirements

Let’s look into each of these 35 Canadian PR VISA-FREE countries in detail.

North America

Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
Entry granted: Varies depending on the itinerary
Entry rule: Canada PR card must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
Official source: National Institute of Migration in Mexico

Central America

Entry granted: 30 days
Official source: Consulate of Belize in Alberta, Canada

03. Costa Rica

Entry rule: Canada PR cards must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
Official source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Ottawa, Canada

04. El Salvador

Burkina Faso
Central African Republic
Côte d’Ivoire
Equatorial Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Turkmenistan
Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
If entering by air, a fee of 12 USD will be charged for a tourist card
If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
Official source: IATA Travel Centre

05. Guatemala

Côte d´Ivoire
Dominican Republic
Entry rule: If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.
Official source: Embassy of Guatemala in Ottawa, Canada

06. Honduras

Cote d’Ivoire
South Sudan
Entry rule: If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.

07. Nicaragua

Afghanistan
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Congo, Dem Rep of
Congo, Rep of
Sierra Leone
Timor-Leste
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
VOA fee is 50 USD, payable in USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
Besides VOA fee, there is a 10 USD tourist card fee, a 2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and 1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)
Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
Official source: Consulate of Panama in Toronto, Canada

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2024

09. Anguilla (British Territory)

Entry granted: 90 days
Official Source: Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements

10. Antigua and Barbuda

VOA fee is 100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
Official source: Department of Immigration, Antigua and Barbuda
Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

12. Bahamas

If traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
If not traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
Official source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

13. Bermuda (British Territory)

Canada PR card must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
Passport must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
Official source: Government of Bermuda

14. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

15. cayman islands (british territory).

Entry rule: On arrival, you must present a return ticket back to Canada (not to a third country)
Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

16. Curaçao

E ntry granted: 90 days

17. Dominican Republic

Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must purchase a Tourist Card on arrival for 20 USD. If arriving by air, the tourist card is included in the airfare.
Official source: Ministry of Tourism of Dominican Republic

18. Sint Maarten

19. turks and caicos (british territory).

Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 43 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2024

South America

Entry granted: 180 days
Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

Georgia entry and exit stamps in Thirumal's passport

21. Armenia

Marshall Islands
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saudi Arabia
Solomon Islands
Trinidad and Tobago
Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

22. Georgia

Canada PR must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

23. Moldova

São Tomé and Príncipe
South Africa
Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for the intended period of stay
Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

24. Montenegro

Official source: Government of Montenegro

25. United Kingdom

Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
You must be traveling to or from Canada
Must arrive and depart by air
Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
Official source: GOV.UK

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2024

Middle East

Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
Guinea Bissau
Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Jordan E-Visa
Official source: Jordan E-Visa
El Salvador
Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya portal
A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
Canada PR must be valid on the day of the A3 Visa application

29. Morocco

Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa online
E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
Canada PR permit must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible for Japan eVisa
eVisa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry
Must submit proof of residence to prove that you reside in Canada
Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
Must enter Japan by flight only
Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

31. Philippines

Eligible nationalities: India passport holders only
Entry granted: 14 days, extendable for another 7 days
Canada PR must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

32. Singapore

Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
Canada PR must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

33. South Korea

Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 nationalities – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from Canada through South Korea
Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
Entry granted: 14 days
Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate
ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
If using an EXPIRED Canada PR card, the PR card must have expired within the last 10 years
Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of Republic of China (Taiwan)

35. Thailand

Entry granted: 60 days, extendable for another 30 days
Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
Official source: Thai E-Visa Portal

RELATED: 18 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with an Australian visa or PR in 2024

Can you use a Canadian visa to travel to these countries?

Yes, you can also use a valid Canadian visa to travel to these countries. However, the eligibility and entry requirements vary depending on what Canadian visa you hold. Refer to my article on VISA-FREE countries for Canada visa for more details.

There you go, folks! 35 countries and territories that a Canadian PR holder can visit in 2024. Though most of them are Visa-Free, some countries require you to obtain VOA at the airport or apply for an eVisa before your travel.

Change history: For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

Travel Countries VISA-FREE with Canada Visa

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Which Countries Can Canadian PR Travel Without Visa?

Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident will open up a world of opportunities in terms of travel. Successfully attaining PR status in Canada means that you no longer have to complete laborious visa application processes to visit certain countries. Fortunately, many of these places are 5-star travel destinations and popular tourist locations, so you’re practically guaranteed a quality trip.

We’ve picked out our favourite visa-free nations to explore and included them in this guide, so now all you’d need to is figure out the logistics. Determine a place to stay when you get there, pick up your PR card and passport, and enjoy your adventure.

TOP 10 COUNTRIES TO TRAVEL TO AS A CANADIAN PR WITH NO VISA

Travelling to Mexico as a Canadian PR is extremely simple and convenient. Arrival into the country is available to all nationalities assuming you have a valid PR card for the entire duration of your stay, along with an up to date passport. The only real restriction that Mexico imposes is a 6 month (180 day) stay limit.

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#2 Costa Rica

Similar to Mexico, this country features very reasonable requirements for Canadian PR status holders. All nationalities are eligible for entry with a PR card and passport. The conditions for visiting Costa Rica are as follows: you can only stay for a maximum of 30 days at a time, and your PR card must be valid for over 6 months.

Panama opens its borders to Canadian PRs of any nationality for up to 3 months (90 days) at a time. Their conditions are slightly more cumbersome than the first two listings, but nothing out of the ordinary. To travel to Panama, your passport must not expire for at least 90 days upon the date of arrival, and any applicable visas (if you have one) must be valid for 180 days. You are also required to provide proof of financial solvency for at least $500 in US dollars.

Much like the countries above, Antigua offers the same all-nationality inclusive policies for Canadian permanent resident cards. The country allows Canadian PR to stay for a full month (30 days) without the need for a Canadian visa. However, it is mandatory to obtain a VOA (Visa on Arrival) once your flight reaches the airport. A VOA in Antigua will cost you $100 in US dollars and is not compatible for multi-entry.

If you happen to own an Indian passport you can travel to the Bahamas for 30 days as a visa-exempt Canadian PR. However, your Canadian permanent residency card must be valid for a minimum of 90 days if leaving from Canada, and 180 days if leaving from a different country.

A highly popular destination for Canadian vacationers, Canadian PR status holders may enter the country for up to 30 days with just a valid PR card. However, you must register for a Cuban Tourist Card which you can acquire from most airline companies prior to boarding, Cuban travel agencies, or Cuban embassies. There is also a minor fee that tourists pay in Cuba.

#7 Dominican Republic

Similar to Cuba, the Dominican Republic allows Canadian permanent residents to stay for 30 days without a visa upon entry. There is however a mandatory $10 US dollar fee per traveler for a Dominican Republic Tourist Card, which is generally included in the cost of airfare. Like most other countries on this list, your passport must not expire for at least 180 days after arrival.

#8 Turks and Caicos

Being a British-claimed territory, this spot is very accessible to Canadians. The islands of Turks and Caicos allow Canadian PRs of all nationalities to visit visa-free for 90 days.

Peru offers a very long stay (up to 6 months) for Canadian PRs without a visa, as long as they own either a Chinese or Indian passport, plus a valid Canadian permanent residency card.

Visiting Qatar is accessible to individuals of any nationality as long as they have a valid Canadian permanent resident card, although it’s not exactly “visa-exempt” in the traditional sense. You’re able to legally stay in Qatar without a Canadian visa for 30 days, but you must apply for a free VOA in Qatar upon arrival. It costs nothing to acquire, but it’s only usable for single-entry.

Three Important Things to Consider Before You Leave

Even though these countries are extending their generosity by providing visa-free travel for Canadian PR status holders, you need to ensure that you’ve covered a few essential pre-travel basics first:

1. As a permanent resident, you need to check to make sure your passport does not expire for a minimum of 180 days before you set out. The last thing you need is being turned away at the airport all because you didn’t renew your passport.

2. Free of visa does not mean free of charge. Some of the countries on this list will include small administration fees once you arrive. There are many different policies surrounding these fees, and because they vary from country to country (likelihood of being waived, fluctuations in cost, etc) it’s best to check with your destination’s embassy beforehand.

3. Last but not least, always confirm your travel requirements if you have any doubts before the flight. This way you can enjoy your stay worry-free!

WHAT IF I AM TRAVELLING AS A US CITIZEN?

Travelling visa-free good enough for the average explorer, but if you’ve seriously caught the travel bug you should consider applying for a Canadian travel visa. At the end of the day, getting a Canadian travel visa comes with numerous benefits and is relatively easy to acquire. Canada is a beautiful country that is definitely worth travelling to if you haven’t yet gone north of the border. If you’re interested in travelling to the Canada, visit Courtenay, one of the best cities to travel and Courtenay also offers best currency exchange rates for tourists and travelers.

Why should I get a Canadian tourist visa?

Quite simply, it’s very easy to get one if you are an American citizen. Unlike the application process for a US visa, Canadian tourist visas do not require an interview to receive. They typically last up to 10 years if your passport does not expire first, and the fee is comparatively minor at only $100 Canadian. In terms of what other visa’ are eligible in Canada, you could put in an application for a V-1 (visitor visa), W-1 (work visa), S-1 (student visa), or a VH-1 (transit visa).

Do permanent residents in Canada need a visa to enter the US?

Yes. If your Canadian documentation only extends as far as permanent residency status and not citizenship, you’ll need to acquire a non-immigrant visa from US officials before you can cross the border. As a side note, it’s usually a good idea to apply for this form well in advance before your departure date to ensure that the results arrive when you need it.

Final Thoughts: Proof of Canadian Permanent Residency

Don’t forget that you will need to show proof of Canadian PR status twice – once before you travel south into the states, and again to Canadian officials when returning home. Canadian citizens however are allowed to periodically visit the US visa-free as long as they can provide a valid passport along with any supplementary documents.

Before any departure it's a good idea to stay informed on general travelling terms and conditions. Check out our article on how long you can stay outside of Canada without losing benefits

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Which Countries Can You Travel To On Your Canadian PR Card?

A benefit a lot of Canadian PR holders don’t know about their residence card is that it can provide you visa-free access to a lot of countries!

Travel Eligibility Requirements

Canadian pr card travel countries, issues using pr card.

Here is a list of countries you can travel to visa-free if you have a Canadian PR Card!

All Dutch Caribbean territories (90 days)
Anguilla (maximum 3 months)
Bahamas (maximum 3 months)
Bermuda (maximum 6 months)
British Virgin Islands (maximum 6 months)
Cayman Islands (2 months max) – Must arrive directly from Canada/US
Costa Rica (maximum 1 month) – Financial proof required
Cuba (maximum 1 month)
Dominican Republic (maximum 2 months)
El Salvador (does not apply to all nationalities)
Georgia (maximum 6 months)
Guatemala (does not apply to all nationalities)
Honduras (does not apply to all nationalities)
Jamaica (maximum 6 months)
Kosovo (maximum 15 days)
Mexico (maximum 6 months)
Nicaragua (maximum 6 months, does not apply to all nationalities)
Panama (1 month or 6 months)
Peru (maximum 6 months for Indian and Chinese nationals)
Philippines (maximum 1 month)
Qatar (maximum 1 month)
Saint Pierre and Miquelon (maximum 3 months)
South Korea (maximum 1 month when in transit, does not apply to all nationalities)
Singapore (maximum 3 days visa-free transit, Chinese and Indian citizens only)
Sint Maarten, Netherlands (maximum 3 months)
Taiwan (maximum 1 month, online registration mandatory, does not apply to all nationalities)
Turks and Caicos Islands (maximum 3 months)

Legal Disclaimer – Please note that this list is not comprehensive and is subject to change!

If you are not sure if you can travel visa-free to a country using your Canadian PR card, you should check with the country’s immigration website for the latest information and if any additional requirements need to be met before your travel.

Before you travel make sure you have the following –

Valid Passport with more than 6 months validity
Valid Canadian PR card
Proof to fund your travel
Round-trip ticket

You must be able to satisfy the immigration officers that you plan to return to your country of residence within the period or they might deny your entry.

It’s important to note that Airport Employees usually won’t be familiar with immigration laws, so do not take their advice but instead follow the guidance only by an immigration officer regarding the rules of their country.

When I visited the UK, I had an instance where the airport employee was giving me wrong information about using PR card for transit but I had no issue with the UK Border Agency for using my PR Card to be eligible for a single day transit .

Have you run into any issues while using your PR card for travel? Feel free to share your experience.

Tom Mehra, an Ottawa-based Software Engineer with a Masters in Information Systems from the University of Texas at Dallas, shares insights on local food spots and top attractions in Canada and the US. He’s also a former resident of the US, UK, and India, and in 2023, his blog was nominated for an Ottawa Award by Faces Magazine. He is also a cat sitter.

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6 thoughts on “ Which Countries Can You Travel To On Your Canadian PR Card? ”

Hello, I’m planning to go to Germany for a visit but I’m not sure if I can travel with Canadian pr and Pakistani passport. If you have any information please advise.

In your case, a visa would be required.

my wife and I are planning on a trip to costa rica, i am Canadian w/passport, she is cuban with her cuban passport and valid Canadian permanent resident card, should we be ok with these docs?

Keep return ticket and proof of funds with you.

You should be good with the documents.

I have a Canadian PR card and would like to visit Switzerland as a tourist. I am an Indian National. Do I require Schengen visa and how do I apply to get one. Please advise

Yes you would need a Schengen visa for tourism purposes. https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/india/en/home/visa/entry-ch.html

Canada introducing visa-free travel to 13 countries

Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship , visited Winnipeg today for an announcement regarding visa-free travel.

Passport holders from 13 countries will now be able to travel to Canada by air without requiring a Temporary Residence Visa. However, this applies only to travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa. Eligible travellers include passport holders from:

Philippines
Antigua and Barbuda
St Kitts and Nevis
St Vincent and Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

Fraser says Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has been working to make the pretravel screening process easier, faster, and more affordable. He says this decision will divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload, allowing IRCC to process visa applications more efficiently.

A similar pilot program was introduced in Brazil in 2017. The minister says that the program was successful in increasing visitors from Brazil by 40% and reducing the caseload in IRCC's Sao Paulo office by 60%, freeing IRCC officers to work on more complex applications.

Visa-free travel to Canada

There are more than 50 countries that can enter Canada without a visa, although most require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if they are arriving by air.

United States citizens do not require an eTA or a visa to enter Canada unless they are moving to Canada to work or study.

Nationals of countries that are not exempt from obtaining a visa, must apply for a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV), also known as a visitor visa.

A TRV allows an individual to visit Canada for a period of six months (although this may differ for some foreign nationals).

Arriving in Canada with a TRV does not give the holder permission to work or study in Canada and they may be asked to demonstrate that the purpose of their visit to Canada is only temporary (such as tourism or visiting family) at their port of entry.

IRCC is currently working through a backlog of TRV applications. The latest backlog data from IRCC shows that 50% of TRV applications are not being processed within service standards, which is 14 days.

Minister Fraser has said TRV applications were impacted by the recent strike by the Public Service Alliance of Canada . The 12-day strike lasted from April 19 until May 1 and Fraser told reporters that there were 100,000 applications not processed during that period that otherwise would have been. He also said that he expects IRCC will be able to catch up to pre-pandemic processing standards within the coming weeks, or a few months.

sean fraser
study in canada
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Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at [email protected]

IRCC has released a statement explaining how it has arrived at the final allocation of study permits each Canadian province has received for 2024.

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Travelling to Canada

13 more countries are now visa exempt

By Shelby Thevenot

Posted on June 6, 2023

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Share article, canada has just added 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eta) program..

Travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when flying to Canada.

Effective June 6, 2023, eligible travellers from these countries can benefit from the program:

Antigua and Barbuda
Philippines
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago

The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air. It is used by Canadian officials to conduct pre-travel screening of air travellers. Travellers pay CAD$7 to apply. Most applications are automatically approved within minutes.

Visa-free air travel is intended to make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or tourism. It will help Canada’s economy grow by facilitating travel, tourism, and international business.

With fewer applications for visitor visas coming in, the expansion of the eTA will also divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload, allowing us to process visa applications more efficiently, which will benefit all visa applicants.

Travellers who already have a valid visa can continue to use it to fly to Canada. Those who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by means other than air (for example, by car, bus, train, boat and cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa. Travellers can visit the Canadian government website to find out whether they’re eligible for an eTA and how to apply for one.

To apply for an eTA, travellers need the following documents: a valid passport, a credit card, an email address and access to the Internet.

About 20.9 million eTAs have been issued since the eTA program was introduced on August 1, 2015.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) first expanded its eTA program in April 2017 to include eligible Brazilians, Bulgarians and Romanians. Later that year, Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania. Eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada to this day.

Within the next 12 months, Canada expects to receive 200,000 (or 20 percent) more visitors from these 13 countries. Within a decade, increased travel from these countries is expected to bring almost $160 million in additional tourism revenue.

“This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements,” Minister Fraser said in a media release. “This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers, it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.”

Watch the announcement

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Visiting Canada

13 Additional Countries Now Qualify for Visa-Free Travel to Canada

In an announcement made by immigration minister Sean Fraser, eligible applicants from 13 countries could qualify for visa-free travel.

13 countries have now been added to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program . Passport holders from these 13 countries travelling by air will now be able to travel to Canada without needing a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV) . To be eligible however, travellers from these countries will have to either have held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or currently have a valid United States non-immigrant visa. The countries that have been added to the eTA program are:

Antigua and Barbuda
Philippines
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago

“Introducing visa-free air travel will make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or leisure” said Canada’s immigration minister. This new change will also help to grow Canada’s economy by further promoting Canadian tourism. It will also help reduce visa caseload by allowing visa applications to be processed more efficiently.

Travellers who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by methods other than air (for example, by car, bus, train and boat—including by cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa .

I’m from a country that is not visa-exempt, what will I need to visit?

Canada offers two kinds of visitor visas: single-entry and multiple-entry. The single-entry visa will allow foreign nationals to cross into Canada once. Those with multiple-entry visas can enter and exit as often as they like within the valid duration of their visa. A visitor visa can be granted for a period of up to six months . However, the duration of the visa will be decided by the immigration officer handling your case.

If you have children or grandchildren living in Canada, you might qualify for the super visa for parents and grandparents . This multiple-entry visa allows you to stay in the country for up to two years at a time, helping you to spend more time with your loved ones.

You have the option to extend your visitor visa from inside Canada only if your temporary status is still valid. Remaining in Canada with an expired visitor visa and no in-process extension application can jeopardize future immigration applications. If you have completed the extension application before the expiry of your visa, you can remain in Canada under implied status until the application is processed.

If you are travelling to Canada for business, you may be required to obtain a business visitor visa . It should be noted, however, that this visa is not for temporary foreign workers. A separate work permit is needed to directly engage in the Canadian labour market.

Interested in learning more about immigration to Canada? Complete our online free assessment and a member of our team will be with you shortly to discuss your options!

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Canada Expands Visa-Free Travel Program to 13 Additional Countries

In an effort to enhance its immigration programs and services, Canada has expanded its electronic travel authorization (eTA) program, allowing citizens from 13 more countries to qualify for visa-free travel to the country. This update aims to make travel to Canada more efficient and accessible for individuals around the world. The announcement was made by the Honourable Sean Fraser , Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, who highlighted the benefits of this expansion for both travelers and Canada’s economy.

In April 2017, Canada initially expanded the eTA program to include eligible citizens of Brazil, Bulgaria, and Romania. Subsequently, Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania, while eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada.

These 13 Countries Are Now Quality for Visa-Free Entry to Canada

Effective immediately, citizens of the following 13 countries can apply for an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air:

Antigua and Barbuda
Philippines
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago

Simplified Travel Experience

By introducing visa-free air travel, Canada aims to streamline the process for thousands of travelers, enabling them to visit the country for up to six months , whether for business or leisure purposes.

This initiative not only facilitates travel, tourism, and international business but also strengthens Canada’s relationships with these 13 countries. Furthermore, it will alleviate the burden on Canada’s visa caseload , resulting in more efficient processing of visa applications.

Within the next year, Canada anticipates a 20% increase in visitors from these countries, amounting to approximately 200,000 additional travelers . Over the next decade, the heightened travel from these nations is expected to generate nearly $160 million in additional revenue for Canada’s tourism sector.

Seek Expert Consultation for All Your Canadian Immigration Matters

Basic eligibility criteria.

To qualify for an eTA instead of a visa, travelers must meet one of the following requirements:

Previous Canadian Visa: Individuals who have held a valid Canadian visa within the past 10 years are now eligible for an eTA. This provision recognizes the prior travel history of individuals and their familiarity with Canada’s immigration processes.
Valid United States Non-Immigrant Visa : Those currently holding a valid non-immigrant visa issued by the United States can now apply for an eTA. This provision acknowledges the close relationship between Canada and the United States and aims to facilitate seamless travel for individuals already approved for entry into the United States.

Continued Validity of Existing Visas

Travelers who already possess a valid visa for Canada can continue to use it for their visits. However, citizens from the newly eligible countries, who do not qualify for an eTA or plan to enter Canada by means other than air (e.g., by car, bus, train, boat, including cruise ships), will still need to obtain a visitor visa.

How to Apply for an eTA?

To determine eligibility for an eTA and apply for it, interested travelers can visit the official Government of Canada website at Canada.ca/eTA . The eTA application fee is $7 CAD , making it an affordable option for those who meet the requirements.

Benefits of eTA over Visa

By introducing the eTA program for eligible travelers, Canada aims to enhance the visitor experience and foster stronger ties with countries worldwide. Some key advantages of obtaining an eTA instead of a visa include:

Speed and Efficiency: The eTA application process is designed to be streamlined and efficient, allowing travelers to receive their authorization quickly. This eliminates the need for lengthy visa applications and reduces processing times, enabling travelers to plan their trips with ease.

Cost-Effective Option: Applying for an eTA is a cost-effective alternative to a traditional visa. The eTA application fee is only $7 CAD, making it an affordable choice for eligible visitors. This cost reduction contributes to making travel to Canada more accessible for a wider range of individuals.

Business and Leisure Flexibility: The eTA allows travelers to visit Canada for up to six months, providing ample time for both business-related activities and leisurely exploration. Whether attending conferences, meetings, or visiting family and friends, the eTA simplifies the travel process for various purposes.

MAKE YOUR CANADIAN DREAM A REALITY

Navigating the immigration process can be complex, and individuals who are not eligible for an eTA or plan to travel to Canada by means other than air may still require a visitor visa. For those seeking professional guidance and support with their visa application, ELAAR Immigration is available to provide comprehensive assistance.

ELAAR Immigration, a leading immigration consultancy, offers a team of experienced professionals well-versed in Canadian immigration policies and procedures. Please feel free to contact us for a consultation and let us help you with your immigration needs.

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IRCC Adds 13 New Nations To List Of Visa-Free Countries

6 June 2023, 12:50 PM EDT 6 June 2023, 5:04 PM EDT
Canada Immigration News 2023

Last Updated On 6 June 2023, 5:04 PM EDT (Toronto Time)

Today, Minister of IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) Sean Fraser announced addition of 13 new nations to the list of eligible countries for visa-free travel to Canada.

As per one of the expectations posted by INC – Immigration News Canada , IRCC adds 13 nations to the list of visa-free countries.

New countries eligible for visa-free travel to Canada: Panama, Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kits and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and Philippines.

Effective today, travellers from these countries who have held a Canadian visa within the past 10 years or who currently possess a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) instead of a visa while coming to Canada.

You can watch the announcement here 👇

The announcement was made at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport – Departure Terminal, 2000 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3H 1C2.

Immigration minister was joined by Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Rechie Valdez, MP for Mississauga—Streetsville, Ontario.

After media availability, IRCC Minister Sean Fraser will be attending a roundtable discussion with local stakeholders and community members at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM).

As per official press release, on the following day (June 7, 2023), Minister Fraser will also be welcoming 20 new Canadian citizens at a special ceremony hosted by VIA Rail.

INC News Expectations Prior to the announcement

There was no confirmation from IRCC or immigration department regarding what the new announcement was supposed to be.

However, INC – Immigration News Canada posted the possibility that immigration minister announces addition of new visa-free country or countries for Canada or Canadian citizens , but there was no official update to confirm it.

With immigration minister’s schedule to have a roundtable with community members at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM) indicates that there was an expectation that there could be some good news coming for filipinos community, but it was just based on the speculation.

Full list of Visa-Free countries for Canada

British citizen
British National (Overseas)
British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
British Virgin Islands
Cayman Islands
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Pitcairn Island
Saint Helena
Turks and Caicos Islands
British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
Brunei Darussalam
Antigua and Barbados
St. Kits and Nevis
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad & Tobago
Czech Republic
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR.
Israel, must have a national Israeli passport
Republic of Korea
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Romania ( electronic passport holders only )
Solomon Islands
Switzerland
Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number
United Arab Emirates
Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican.

What are the new countries eligible for Visa-Free (eTA) travel?

New countries eligible for visa-free travel to Canada: Panama, the Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kits and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and Philippines.

What is electronic travel authorization or eTA for Canada?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada. An eTA is connected to a traveler’s passport electronically.

It is valid for up to five years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first. If you obtain a new passport, you must obtain a new eTA.

How much is the cost of eTA for Canada?

$7 Canadian dollars is cost of an eTA per individual.

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What Countries Can A Canadian PR Card Take You To? 26 Visa on Arrival Countries!

One of the most awesome things about becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident is having the opportunity and flexibility to visit many countries without the hassle of going through visa applications.

I have had a bunch of countries in North America on my travel bucket list for years.

Unfortunately, I was discouraged from visiting when I saw the long visa application requirements and duration.

It just looked like too much work. Depending on the country, it could also be a very expensive process.

Thankfully, when you become a Canadian permanent resident, the ease of discovering new places opens up so much more.

All you have to do is book a plane ticket, an awesome hotel , grab your passport and PR card and you’re good to go. Becoming a Canadian permanent resident certainly makes spontaneous traveling a lot more fun.

Post Contents

Which Countries Can Canadian PR Travel to Without a Visa?

There are 26 countries that grant Canadian Permanent Residents visas on arrival unless your passport is already sufficient for exemption. For example, a British passport or a US passport.

I think by the time you get through this list, you’ll already be a Canadian citizen so you will have even more flexibility with travel:-

Aruba – 90 days
Anguilla – maximum 3 months
Bahamas – 90 days
Barbados – dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Bermuda – maximum 6 months
Bonaire – 90 days
British Virgin Islands – up to 6 months
Cayman Islands – 60 days
Costa Rica – 30 days, PR card must be valid for more than six months
Cuba – 30 days
Curacao – 90 days
Dominican Republic – 60 days
El Salvador – dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Georgia – 90 days in 180 days
Guatemala – dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Honduras – dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Jamaica – up to 6 months
Mexico – 6 months
Nicaragua – 90 days within 180 days but dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Panama – 30 days or 180 days
Saba – 90 days
Sint Maarten – 90 days
Sint Eustatius – 90 days
South Korea – 30 days when in transit but dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Taiwan – 30 days but dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy
Turks and Caicos Islands – 90 days

visa on arrival for canadian permanent residents

Travel to the UK as a Canadian Permanent Resident

You may be able to transit through the UK if you have a valid PR card issued after 2002. For clarification on this regarding the UK, see HERE .

Travel to the US as a Canadian Permanent Resident

If you’re disappointed the US isn’t on the list, not to worry.

Getting a US visa as a Canadian Permanent Resident is not that difficult but you will have to submit an application and pay for it. You will also be required to attend an interview.

In most cases, you will be granted a 10-year visa as a Canadian permanent resident.

Applying for a US Visa as a Canadian Permanent Resident

Applying for my US visa as a Canadian Permanent Resident was quite a challenge. Completing the DS-160 non-immigrant application form was straightforward.

However, after completing the application, I received an email to go to a different website to make a payment for the visa application and schedule an interview.

After the payment, the next available appointment date in Toronto was 2024 which was out of the question as I had to also travel for work so every few nights between 12 pm – 2 am, I would refresh the appointment page to check for cancellations. Sometimes, I did it early in the morning.

This went on for months before I finally managed to reschedule my interview date to Jan 2023. On the interview day, there was a long line in the embassy but they tried to get through everyone ASAP.

They asked me where I worked and why I wanted to visit the US then let me know my visa was approved and my passport would be sent across via courier (extra charges). I was at the interview window for less than 10 minutes. lol.

My passport came back about 10 days later with a 10-year visit visa and that was it! I was super glad when it was over and I’ll be a Canadian by the 10-year expiration date of the visa.

It seems standard that if you’re a Canadian Permanent Resident without any security flags, you’ll be issued a 10-year visa.

If you want to visit the US, apply ASAP because those interview dates are unreal!

You can find out more about applying for a US visa as a Canadian Permanent Resident HERE .

Discover all the Countries Your Canadian Permanent Resident Card Can Take You To

13 US Cities You Can Drive To from Canada

The good news is when you get your US visa, you can do a road trip to 13 US states who share a border with Canada. These include:-

North Dakota
Pennsylvania
New Hampshire

Travel Tips for Canadian Permanent Residents

There are some important things to note if you are traveling to countries that grant visas on arrival to Canadian permanent residents:-

Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months valid prior to travel. They will likely not let you board the plane anyway if you overlook this but this is airline dependent.
Just because it’s visa-free doesn’t mean you won’t be charged minor administration fees on arrival. This varies greatly from country to country so check with the specific embassy prior to traveling.
In all cases, you should call the country’s embassy anyway to reconfirm the travel requirements before traveling in case you need to bring additional documentation along. You can find a list of country embassies in Canada HERE .
Before you head out, be sure to check the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website for safety and security updates for over 100 countries.

visa free countries for canadian permanent residents

My Travel Bucket List

Despite the hassles of applying for a visa on my current passport, traveling is one of my passions and I have been to quite a few countries so far:-

International Travel

Spain (Barcelona & Madrid)
Germany (Frankfurt)
Switzerland (Geneva, Montreux & Zurich)
Mexico (Riviera Maya)
Italy (Venice & Rome)
USA (New York)
USA (Miami)
USA (Las Vegas)

Travel Within Canada

Trying to make my way around as much of big a** Canada as I can too 🙂

Blue Mountain, Collingwood

Happy Travels!

Abi has lived and worked abroad for over 13 years. She loves traveling, reading, and writing. She is a big believer in following your dreams and has been marching to the beat of her unconventional drums for a long time. She funds her adventures by making smart financial decisions and investing wisely. Her top personal finance tools include trading with Questrade , investing change on MOKA , and no-fee banking with Tangerine and Neo Financial . Learn more about Abi HERE .

This post may contain affiliate links which means I will make a small commission if you purchase through those links. Read full disclosure HERE .

14 thoughts on “What Countries Can A Canadian PR Card Take You To? 26 Visa on Arrival Countries!”

This is wholesome!! Thank you for this. As someone with a Nigerian passport, I have struggled to find places to visit with my PR. Now the possibilities are literally endless.

Happy travels 🙂

As a Nigerian citizen and also a permanent resident of Canada do I need a visa to visit uk

Yes, you do. You may be able to transit through the UK without a visa. Learn more here https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/740080/UK_Visa_requirements_Sept_2018.pdf .

Thank you for this Abi!🙂 I hold a travel document for palestinian refugees issued in Lebanon but I am also a Canadian PR holder and I live in Toronto. Does it matter what kind of passport or travel document you hold? Or does it only depend on whether you have a Canadian PR or not?

It should be OK but not too sure about this. Best to call the country’s embassy and ask just to be sure.

Thanks so much for this. I am Nigerian;I have Canadian PR card. Can I go to Georgia for real becos i see Georgia on the list.

If Georgia is on the list, then you can go but always check for updated travel info especially with the pandemic. Happy Travels!

Thank you for this, just came across your blog. I am a Nigerian citizen with a Canadian PR card. Can I go to Jamaica & Mexico as I see both on the list without going through visa applications?

Yes, you can go to Jamaica & Mexico for up to 6 months (VOA) but always a good idea to check the country’s local consulate for any updates or other documents you should have with you on arrival. Happy travels!

Yes, you can go to Jamaica visa free on your Nigerian passport and Canadian PR card. I just came back from Jamaica with my PR card and Nig passport. As long as your Nig passport is still valid though.

Hi there, I’m a Pakistani citizen with Canadian PR. How can I travel to Europe? Specifically Spain? I can’t seem to find proper information anywhere

You will likely need a Schengen visa to visit Spain. Your best bet is to check with the Spanish consulate for exact requirements – https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/toronto/en/Consulado/Paginas/Horario,-localizaci%c3%b3n-y-contacto.aspx .

Do you have more information on when you applied and how long it took for a new spot to open up?

List of Visa-Free countries to Canada

The Canadian government has recently made an exciting announcement that is set to impact travelers around the world positively. In a move aimed at facilitating easier travel and promoting international connections, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced visa-free travel for citizens of select countries.

This groundbreaking update opens up new possibilities for individuals wishing to explore the beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture that Canada has to offer. Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable announcement.

Eligible countries for Visa-Free Travel to Canada

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded the list of countries eligible for visa-free travel by adding 13 new nations.

The newly added countries that now qualify for visa-free travel to Canada include Panama, Antigua and Barbados in the Caribbean, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Effective immediately, individuals from these countries who have previously held a Canadian visa within the last decade or who currently possess a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States will be able to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visa when visiting Canada. This new provision simplifies the travel process and offers greater convenience for eligible travelers.

Can I Travel to Canada without a visa?

Yes, depending on your nationality and eligibility, it is possible to travel to Canada without a visa. Canada has introduced visa-free travel for citizens of certain countries, allowing them to visit for tourism, business, or family visits without the need to obtain a visa.

However, it is important to note that even if you are eligible for visa-free travel, you may still be required to obtain an El ectronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if you are a visa-exempt foreign national flying to Canada.

For more Canadian visa inquiries? Click here to start the process with our help →

What are the Visa-Free countries that can travel to Canada?

The list comprises Panama, the Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and the Philippines.

What are the Visa-Free countries for Canada?

Below is the full list of Visa-Free countries & nationals for Canada.

1) Andorra 34) Republic of Korea 2) Argentina 35) Latvia 3) Australia 36) Liechtenstein 4) Austria 37) Lithuania 5) Bahamas 38) Luxembourg 6) Barbados 39) Malta 7) Belgium 40) Mexico 8) British citizen 41) Monaco 9) British National (Overseas) 42) Morocco 10) British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom) 43) Netherlands 11) British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization, or registration in one of the British overseas territories of: · Anguilla · Bermuda · British Virgin Islands · Cayman Islands · Falkland Islands (Malvinas) · Gibraltar · Montserrat · Pitcairn Island · Saint Helena · Turks and Caicos Islands 44) New Zealand 12) British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom 45) Norway 13) Brunei Darussalam 46) Panama 14) Bulgaria 47) Papua New Guinea 15) Caribbean island states of: · Antigua and Barbados · St. Kits and Nevis · St. Lucia · St. Vincent and the Grenadines · Trinidad & Tobago 48) Philippines 16) Chile 49) Poland 17) Costa Rica 50) Portugal 18) Croatia 51) Romania ( electronic passport holders only ) 19) Cyprus 52) Samoa 20) Czech Republic 53) San Marino 21) Denmark 54) Seychelles 22) Estonia 55) Singapore 23) Finland 56) Slovakia 24) France 57) Slovenia 25) Germany 58) Solomon Islands 26) Greece 59) Spain 27) Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR. 60) Sweden 28) Hungary 61) Switzerland 29) Iceland 62) Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number 30) Ireland 63) Thailand 31) Israel, must have a national Israeli passport 64) United Arab Emirates 32) Italy 65) Uruguay 33) Japan 66) Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican

What is an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Canada?

An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is a mandatory requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are flying to Canada. It is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport. The eTA remains valid for up to five years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first. If an individual obtains a new passport, they will need to apply for a new eTA.

What is the cost of an eTA for Canada?

The cost of an eTA for Canada is $7 Canadian dollars per individual.

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Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry

1. Fill out the online form
2. Scan and upload the documents
3. Pay your fees
4. Submit your complete application
5. After you apply
Check your application status

Before you apply for permanent residence

You can only apply for permanent residence through Express Entry if you’ve received an invitation to apply.

Once you have your invitation to apply

Your Express Entry invitation to apply is valid for 60 days only . You should start filling out the online form right away so that you can get all the information and documents you need before your invitation expires.

Follow these steps to fill out the online form:

Sign in to your account .
Click the link to apply for permanent residence under Express Entry.

When filling out the form:

Make sure you submit all of the required documents .
All of your answers must be complete and true.
Make sure all the mandatory fields are completed, or you won’t be able to submit your application.
You can save your information on the form and go back as often as you need to.

For your application: $1,365

Include your spouse: $1,365

Include a dependent child: $230

These fees increased on April 30, 2022. Find out more .

Processing time ?

Varies by program

You may need to give biometrics with your application. This processing time includes the time you need to give your biometrics.

Processing times

Processing times will vary based on:

the type of application submitted
if the application is complete
how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
how easily we can verify your information
how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
other factors

More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may have to wait longer to be processed.

Learn how processing times are calculated .

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Canada Permanent Resident Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Updated: April 1, 2024

Home » Ultimate Guides » Canada Permanent Resident Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Over the years, people from around the world have applied for the Canada Permanent Resident Visa . This high level of international interest in permanent residency in Canada is because, from the picturesque scenery of Banff, a world-leading education system, and amazing investment and business opportunities in thriving hubs like Toronto, Canada provides an excellent lifestyle for its permanent residents.

Meanwhile, the Government of Canada has earned a reputation for being welcoming to new immigrants of all nationalities. Additionally, becoming a permanent resident can be the first step in obtaining Canadian citizenship.

If you’re wondering how to get permanent residency in Canada, this article will provide the answers that you need. We will take you through the entire Canadian immigration process and explain how you can immigrate to Canada and become a permanent resident. The contents include:

Eligibility requirements

Family sponsorship

Canadian immigration law
Advantages of becoming new permanent residents in Canada

About the Canada Permanent Resident Visa

The Canada Permanent Resident Visa allows individuals to reside in Canada permanently, only needing to report to Canadian immigration once every five years. This program is comparable to a Green Card in the United States. As soon as your application is approved, you are given a Permanent Resident card (PR card), permitting you to relocate to any Canadian province with your family members.

Canadian permanent residency also comes with the same rights as Canadian citizenship, except those who become Canadian citizens receive the right to vote and hold public office. Upon approval for the visa from Canadian immigration authorities, you can choose to immigrate to Canada. Please note that individuals living in Canada as students or foreign skilled workers are not considered permanent residents by the Canadian government.

The Benefits of a Canada Permanent Resident Visa

Canadian permanent residents enjoy the following rights and freedoms:

Reside and work in Canada

One of the friendliest and safest countries in the world, Canada offers its permanent residents an exceptional quality of life. As a PR card holder, you can move freely across provinces in the country. Once you become a permanent resident in Canada, you also have access to many investment and work opportunities in the Canadian economy.

Inclusion of family members

By acquiring Canadian PR, your family members, including a common-law partner and dependent children, can reap all the benefits. They can reside, study, and work in the country indefinitely.

Education and healthcare infrastructure

One of the main reasons that so many people want to become permanent residents is access to the social services provided by the Government of Canada. If you are granted permanent resident status in Canada, your children will be eligible for free education until class 12 (16-17 years old), consisting of primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of education. Canada’s education system is ranked as the fourth best in the world. Additionally, permanent residents pay lower tuition fees than foreign nationals living in Canada temporarily.

On top of that, permanent resident card holders and every sponsored family member have the right to free medical care (under the universal healthcare program) and, in some cases, free drug prescriptions. The federal Government of Canada funds public health care coverage through taxes , so all permanent residents and Canadian citizens receive access to free medical services.

Visa renewal

The Canada permanent residence card provides a smooth Canadian immigration journey with a validity period of five years. By maintaining a clean criminal history and good behavior, your card renewal will be approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Please note that there are no restrictions on the number of visa renewals an individual can have.

A person is eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship by living in Canada for three years out of the last five years after obtaining permanent resident status. To be granted Canadian citizenship, the applicant must also pass a citizenship test based on general knowledge of Canada and prove their language skills in English or French.

For more details on Canadian citizenship and the path to acquiring it through investment, read our article: A Guide to Canada Citizenship by Investment . You’ll also find information on how the Canadian passport , which you would receive once granted Canadian citizenship, has placed eighth on the Global Passport Index.

Business opportunities

If you are a permanent resident in Canada, you have permission to start your own business as a single proprietor, partner, or corporation. You are not required to be a Canadian citizen to incorporate a new business. PR removes business ownership restrictions that must be adhered to in Canadian immigration programs like the Start-Up Visa .

Permanent Residence in Canada

Once you obtain the Canadian permanent resident visa, you are given a permanent resident card that you should carry along with your passport, especially when traveling abroad. The card is seen as proof of your PR status upon re-entry.

Rights for permanent residents

Standard work rights and reasonable concessions on taxes are guaranteed for all permanent residents in Canada, including those who obtained their status through family sponsorship. Permanent residents also have the right to monetary assistance after retirement and disability and survivors’ benefit schemes. Furthermore, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects all permanent residents from discrimination.

Limitations for permanent residents

As a permanent resident of Canada, you are not allowed to vote in the federal elections held in the country or run for political office. Besides this limitation, permanent residents are permitted to undertake any valid job offer, including those that necessitate high-level security clearance.

The residency time period in Canada

The residency obligation includes maintaining a presence in Canada for a minimum of 730 days over five years to maintain your permanent resident status. However, you’re not required to continuously stay in Canada for 730 days. There are two ways to monitor your stay period in the country:

You can ask the Canadian border officer when you arrive in Canada.
You can record the days from the date of renewing your Canada permanent residence card.

Canada Start-Up Visa program

If you are an international entrepreneur looking for business immigration programs in Canada, the Start-Up Visa program might be a perfect choice. This program gives entrepreneurs a PR visa and access to investment in the country’s private sector. Under this scheme, you get the opportunity to connect and network with angel investors, venture capitalists, and other business enthusiasts. This program makes it easier for immigrants to create and expand successful start-ups.

To be eligible for the Canadian Start-Up Visa program, the Canadian government requires applicants to prove their business ideas are innovative, creative, and ready to compete globally. Additionally, entrepreneurs must ensure their start-up creates job opportunities for Canadian residents.

Start-Up Visa Program – eligibility

You must meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for the Canada Start-Up Visa program:

You must show you are an owner of a qualifying business or that your idea is innovative.
You must receive a Letter of Support from a designated organization willing to endorse and fund your business idea.
You must fulfill the language requirements (if applicable).
You must prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any family members while living in Canada before your business earns profits.

Canada Permanent Resident Visa – Other Options

You can gain Canadian permanent resident status through multiple programs. The best option for you will depend on your skills, experience, and location.

Canada Express Entry program

Under the Canada Express Entry program, foreign skilled workers can apply for residence in Canada. Express Entry is used to oversee PR applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class program. Successful Express Entry program applicants can obtain permanent resident status in six months or less. The scheme consists of the following categories:

Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP): For qualified and experienced professionals

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For qualified professionals with technical expertise and international work experience

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For professionals who have already worked in Canada

Most candidates in Canada’s Express Entry system have their applications processed within six to twelve months. If an Express Entry profile isn’t processed within twelve months, it can be resubmitted to the Express Entry pool.

Some candidates may be able to immigrate to Canada if they receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) inviting them to submit an application for permanent residence with their Express Entry application.

As part of the family class program, Canadian citizens and people with permanent resident status in Canada can request permission for family members to visit or permanently immigrate to Canada. As a PR card holder in Canada, you can sponsor the following relatives:

Common-law partner
Dependent children
Grandparents
Brother/sister*
Nephew/niece*
Grandson/granddaughter*

*You can only sponsor your brother/sister, nephew/niece, grandson/granddaughter if they:

Have lost their parents and are dependent on you
Are minors (below 18 years of age) and are not married
Are a relative by a common law

Provincial Nominee Program

Under a provincial program, skilled workers and international investors can reside in specific provinces within Canadian territory. These special programs expand Canadian immigration options by encouraging development and migration to underpopulated and less developed regions in Canada, as well as those with an aging population.

Business Immigration Program

Through the Business Immigration Program, entrepreneurs and investors with valid experience and business ideas can apply for permanent resident status in Canada.

Atlantic Immigration Program

Under the Atlantic Immigration Program – formally called Atlantic Immigration Pilot, a highly-skilled foreign worker or international student who has graduated from a Canadian education institution can apply for permanent residence in Canada. This Canadian visa program aims to enable skilled foreign workers and graduates to occupy positions in provinces that locals cannot fill.

Do note that this program is only applicable in four provinces in Canada – New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

You must first apply for permanent residence through the province or territory you were nominated by for the program. After a province or territory endorses you for permanent residency, you can apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a permanent resident permit. An IRCC officer will assess your application and make a decision based on Canadian law on immigration.

Canada permanent residence by investment

The Québec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) was the only Canadian immigration program that allowed foreigners to make a capital transfer and receive permanent residence status without any work-related commitments. The program required applicants to have managerial experience, a high net worth (the minimum net worth to qualify was CAD 2 million, which is about $1.47 million), and invest at least CAD 1.2 million (about $880,000) through IQ Immigrants Investisseurs Inc.

Provided the investment is maintained for five years. Applicants can renew their permanent resident permits indefinitely.

Please note that the Québec Immigrant Investor Program has been suspended.

Live-In Caregiver Program: The Live-In Caregiver Program (LCP) is another program that has granted permanent residency in Canada to successful applicants, but it is no longer accepting new applicants.

To be eligible for permanent residence through the Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP), you must have a minimum of two years of work experience within the program. You can apply if you are currently employed in Canada under an LCP work permit or if you received approval for your initial LCP work permit, which was based on a Labour Market Impact Assessment submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada on or before November 30, 2014.

Canadian Permanent Resident Visa – Application Process

There are many immigration pathways to obtain a permanent resident visa. One of the easiest is entering the country as a temporary resident through a study permit or work permit scheme. With this, you receive temporary immigrant status. Only some immigrants apply for permanent resident status before becoming temporary residents.

Over the years, Express Entry has been the popular option among immigrants to obtain permanent resident cards in Canada.

Express Entry

Here are the visa requirements to apply for the Express Entry program and gain permanent residence:

Share your Express Entry profile. You will need to self-assess yourself.
Your profile will be graded based on Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System ( CRS ). Your profile will be assigned points with the help of a Canada Permanent Resident Visa points calculator.
Top-scoring profiles will be allowed to submit their application through Express Entry draws that happen every two weeks.
Qualified applicants who have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) must submit their application for a permanent resident visa within 60 days.

Business Immigration Program

This program is relatively easy to navigate and only involves a two-step process. You just need to have a work permit. Once you meet all the work permit terms and conditions, you can apply for a permanent resident Visa.

Provincial Nominee Program

You must meet the following requirements to apply under the Provincial Nominee Program:

Fulfill all nominee non-express stream requirements cited by the province or territory
Be nominated under that stream

Atlantic Immigration Program

You must meet the following requirements to apply under the program:

Proof of qualifying work experience
Proof of qualifying education
Fulfill language requirements
Proof of financial stability that ensures that you can support yourself and each family member when you relocate to Canada

Other requirements

One crucial detail to note when planning to immigrate to Canada permanently is that IRCC has very specific passport photo requirements for permanent residence applications:

A commercial photographer must take the photo
The photo must be 50 mm x 70 mm in size
The photo must be clear, sharp, and in focus
The photo must be taken with a neutral facial expression
The photo must be taken with uniform lighting and not display shadows, glare, or flash reflections
The photo must be taken straight on, with face and shoulders centered and squared to the camera
The photo must be taken in front of a white background with a clear difference between the applicant’s face and the background.
The photo must reflect and represent natural skin tones and be unaltered

Visa-Free Travel for Permanent Resident Permit Holders

Not only do Canadian citizens with Canadian passports have access to visa-free travel , but those with permanent residence status can also access over 30 countries visa-free.

Here is a list of the visa-free countries for those with PR status:

All Dutch Caribbean territories (90 days)
Anguilla (90 days)
Bahamas (90 days)
Belize (30 days)
Bermuda (180 days)
British Virgin Islands (180 days)
Cayman Islands (60 days)
Costa Rica (30 days)
Cuba (30 days)
Dominican Republic (60 days)
El Salvador (not applicable to all nationalities)
Georgia (90 days in any 180-day period)
Guatemala (not applicable to all nationalities)
Honduras (not applicable to all nationalities)
Jamaica (180 days)
Kosovo (15 days)
Mexico (180 days)
Nicaragua (90 days in any 180-day period)
Panama (30 days or 180 days)
Peru [180 days (Chinese and Indian nationals only)]
Qatar (30 days)
Saint Pierre and Miquelon (90 days in any 180-day period)
Singapore [96 hours visa-free transit to or from a third country (Chinese and Indian nationals only)]
Saint Maarten (90 days)
South Korea [(30 days when in transit (not applicable to all nationalities)]
Taiwan [30 days, online registration required (only applicable to certain nationalities)]
Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)

Canada Permanent Resident Visa – eligibility

If you are thinking of immigrating to Canada, you must fulfill the following requirements to meet the eligibility criteria for a Canadian permanent residence card:

You need to be physically present in Canada
You must comply with the permanent residency obligations set by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) — formerly known as Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). (see Appendix A: Residency obligation )
You should not be a Canadian citizen
You should have no criminal record

Frequently Asked Questions about the Canada Permanent Resident Visa

How do you get permanent residency in canada.

There are several immigration programs available to gain a Canada Permanent Resident Visa and immigrate to Canada permanently. The Start-Up Visa, Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, and Quebec Immigration Investment Program all provide a path to permanent residence. If you receive a Canadian job offer and live in Canada as a foreign worker for three years, you can also apply for permanent residence.

Is it easy to get Canadian PR status?

If you meet all the eligibility requirements for one of the various Canadian immigration programs and have proper documentation, getting Canadian PR status and receiving your permanent resident card in Canada is straightforward.

How long does it take to get a Permanent Resident Visa in Canada?

Once you submit all your documentation, your Permanent Resident Visa should take approximately six months to be approved. The processing time can depend on various factors, including your home country. For more information about processing times, it’s advisable to check the IRCC website .

How much money do you need to immigrate to Canada?

If you are a single applicant, you will need around CAD 15,420 (about $11,360) to immigrate to Canada. You will also be required to show proof of funds and proof that you pay taxes. If your application includes a common-law partner, you will need about CAD 20,000 (about $14,700).

Can I move to Canada without a job?

You can move to Canada without a job if you are applying through the Express Entry system, a Start-Up Visa, or other business-related options relevant to Provincial Nominee Programs. The Quebec Immigration Investment Program (QIIP) has no work or director-related requirements.

Can I travel outside Canada during my permanent residence application?

You can travel outside the country while your application is being processed. But note that your application can be refused if you leave Canada frequently or for long periods of time.

Can I travel to the USA with a Canadian permanent residence card?

A Canadian permanent residence card is not a valid travel document to enter the United States. Whether you require a visa or visa waiver to enter the US depends on which passport you hold. You must always travel abroad with your passport.

Can Canadian permanent residents travel abroad?

There are no travel restrictions for Canadian permanent residents. The only requirement is a residency obligation of at least 730 days in Canadian territory within five years of the visa permit’s validity.

It’s important to note that individuals leaving Canada without a valid PR card or failing to carry one must obtain a permanent resident travel document before reentering Canada using a commercial vehicle.

Do you need a Canadian visa if you are a permanent resident?

A Canadian permanent residence permit removes all requirements for holders to obtain a visitor visa to visit Canada or a residency visa to live there. The only requirement new permanent residents should be aware of is to renew their permanent resident card every five years.

Should I seek advice from a Canada PR visa consultant?

Consulting a Canadian immigration consultant is advisable because they can provide expert guidance, help navigate complex immigration processes, and keep applicants updated on policy changes. They increase the chances of a successful application by ensuring it meets all requirements and is submitted correctly.

How do I become a Canadian citizen?

Once you have a permanent resident card, you can become a Canadian citizen by meeting residency requirements, demonstrating knowledge of Canada, and passing a citizenship test. Ensure you fulfill the criteria, maintain the required physical presence, and submit a complete application, including your permanent resident card, to initiate the citizenship process.

How many visa free countries for Canadian PR status holders are there?

There are around 30 countries that offer visa free travel to those with PR in Canada.

How long does Canadian PR last?

Unlike temporary status in Canada, PR does not expire.

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Canada PR Visa Benefits

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Canada PR Benefits

Canada has one of the most advanced immigration systems in the world. A country with great economic and world status, it has become a hub for aspiring immigrants. With an aging population and a falling birth rate, immigration is a top goal for the government. The Canadian government's approach to addressing these difficulties and maintaining the country's long-term economic success has always included immigration.

Between 2022 and 2024, Canada plans to welcome more than 1.5 million new permanent immigrants. The Canada Immigration Level Plan for 2023-25, issued by Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, set these new records.

This year, Canada plans to welcome 431,645 new immigrants. Canada expects to bring in the following number of new immigrants during the next three years:

431,645 permanent residents: 2022
447,055 permanent inhabitants: 2023
451,000 permanent residents: 2024

If this isn't good news enough for the immigrants, here are some of the top benefits of having a Canadian PR Visa :

1. Free universal healthcare

2. free education for children.

All permanent residency holders are provided with free education up to 12th grade (18 years of age). Not only this, Canada PR holders have to pay a significantly lower amount of fees for higher education as compared to overseas students.

3. Social Security Benefits

Upon receiving a COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residency), you receive a SIN number. This SIN number is a nine-digit number that government agencies use to identify you. It will be required in order to pay taxes or to gain access to government programs and benefits such as Employment Insurance (EI) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). Citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents in Canada who are 12 years of age or older can apply for their own Social Insurance Number (SIN).

4. Right to Work anywhere in Canada

Being one of the most developed western countries, the rate and quality of employment are way higher than in any Asian country. High wages, decent working hours, the dignity of labor, cultural hospitability, and scope of economic growth are just a few advantages of being employed in a country like Canada.

Getting a PR would mean you will have the freedom to migrate to any territory or province in Canada. Unlike acquiring a PNP visa, you are not obligated to stay with a company, a job, or even a province if you have a PR.

5. Family sponsorship

With the benefits of having a Canadian PR, comes the advantage of living along with your family in Canada . You can seek to sponsor your spouse/common-law partner, and dependent children to join you in Canada once you have become a permanent resident. You have the benefit to add your family to your application if you apply for the PR under the Express Entry category. Your partner and child will be eligible for the same privileges as a Canadian Permanent Resident once they have received their PR Visa.

6. Right to live or move anywhere in Canada

Section 6 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms specifically codifies mobility rights. Canadian PR holders have the liberty to travel in and outside Canada several times. It also gives you the freedom to relocate and settle in any province. You can look for new employment, a new opportunity, or other sources of income all around the country.

7. High quality of living standards

Canada is a vibrant nation with a booming economy, cultural diversity, and geographically beautiful landscapes. It is a safe and secure place to call home and immigrants with permanent residence in Canada enjoy all of the rights to be protected by the government and authorities under Canadian Charter 6. High wages, world-class education and healthcare system, modern and secular lifestyle are all part of the high-quality experience one can get by living in Canada.

8. Canadian Citizenship

You can live in Canada for five years after obtaining permanent resident status. As a PR holder, you are also eligible for Canadian citizenship if you have physically lived in the nation for 1,095 days (three years) out of the five years. However, only the five years preceding the date on which you filed your citizenship application are deemed genuine.

Pathways to Canada PR

There are several options for obtaining a Canadian permanent residence, but the most popular is the Express Entry Program . The Express Entry system is the most efficient way of migrating to Canada. It is an easy method for qualified employees to obtain a permanent residency in Canada. Following are the three categories that fall under the Express Entry System:

Canadian Experience Class
Federal Skilled Workers Program
Federal Skilled Trades Program

Another most approached way to get permanent residency is through the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). While individuals who apply through Express Entry can choose to live anywhere in the country, those who apply through the PNPs must intend to live in the province from which they obtain a nomination. Candidates can apply to the PNPs first, then move through Express Entry, or they can do both at the same time.

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We at Nationwide Visas have assisted thousands of individuals to successfully immigrate to Canada with their families through the Federal Express Entry Program. Our qualified and experienced Immigration Experts are equipped with the proficiency to accurately assess your case and advise the most suitable course of action for best serving your needs.

Nationwide has accumulated a treasure of goodwill and exhaustive experience over the last 16+ years in this dynamic immigration industry and has constantly facilitated a wide range of aspiring immigrants to achieve their overseas goals.

We are among the top-most brands in the Immigration sector being a highly reliable immigration firm with an outstanding track record of several thousands of triumphant PR Visa applications. The following major factors make us the Best Immigration Consultant for a Canada PR Visa:

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Canada's Express Entry Draw Results from April 11, 2024

Vimal Sivakumar - 11 April, 2024

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted the department's second Express Entry draw in as many days. Here are the results of IRCC's latest Express Entry draw, which occurred on April 11, 2024.

IRCC's most recent Express Entry draw, which occurred today, saw the department conduct its first category-based draw for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) candidates in 2024. This is IRCC's first STEM draw since December 8, 2023. During today's draw, IRCC issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to eligible candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 491.

IRCC's April 11 draw follows a general draw yesterday (April 10, 2024) where the department issued 1,280 ITAs to eligible candidates in a general draw. The minimum CRS score for the April 10 draw was 549.

Note: This is a developing story, which CanadaVisa will update later this week if IRCC conducts any more Express Entry draws.

Express Entry

Express Entry is the name of IRCC's application management system for immigration applications made to three specific economic-class permanent residence (PR) programs. The programs managed under this system are the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Within the Express Entry system, IRCC conducts three types of draws: general, program-specific, and category-based .

General and Program-specific Express Entry Draws

IRCC's first two draw types have been around since the department first introduced the Express Entry system in 2015. These draws are primarily focused on the Canadian immigration candidates with the highest CRS scores.

These scores are unique numerical values assigned to all Express-Entry eligible candidates based on a variety of human capital factors (age, education, work experience etc.).

Once the Express Entry candidate confirms their eligibility for at least one of the three Express Entry-managed programs and creates an online profile with IRCC, they will receive their CRS score. At this time, they must then wait for IRCC to conduct its next Express Entry draw to see if they have met the criteria* and whether they will receive an ITA.

*To receive an ITA from IRCC, candidates must have a CRS score above the cut-off score determined by IRCC for that given draw

Note: ITAs are the only way an Express Entry candidate can apply for PR in Canada. Category-Based Express Entry Draws

First conducted in June 2023, IRCC first introduced category-based draws in May last year as a way to attract Canadian immigration candidates with specific types of work experience and proficiencies, which the department deemed to be "in-demand" based on Canada's labour market and demographic needs.

Already confirmed to be continuing with the same six focus categories in 2024, IRCC chose candidates with the following attributes as areas of priority for its category-based draws:

Work experience in Healthcare
Work experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Work experience in Trades
Work experience in Transport
Work experience in Agriculture and Agri-Food
Strong French language proficiency (defined as a "minimum score of 7 in all 4 language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens" (NCLC)).

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New Zealand tightens visa rules after migration hits ‘unsustainable’ levels

Net migration to New Zealand hit a near record high in 2023 after a new temporary work visa was introduced after the pandemic

New Zealand will tighten its visa rules for some migrants as the coalition government moves to overhaul the immigration system it says has led to “unsustainable” levels of migration.

Last year, annual net migration to New Zealand hit a near record high of more than 173,000 non-New Zealand citizens in the year to December, Stats NZ reported .

Immigration minister Erica Stanford announced on Sunday changes to the accredited employer worker visa (AEWV), the main temporary work visa, which was introduced in mid-2022 to help fill workforce shortages after the pandemic.

The government’s changes to the scheme would include introducing English-language requirements for low-skilled jobs and setting a minimum skills and work experience threshold for most employer work visas. The maximum continuous stay for most low-skilled roles will also be reduced to three years from five years.

The changes would be immediate, she said.

“The government is focused on attracting and retaining the highly skilled migrants such as secondary teachers, where there is a skill shortage,” Stanford said in a statement. “At the same time we need to ensure that New Zealanders are put to the front of the line for jobs where there are no skills shortages.”

New Zealand, which has a population of about 5.1 million, has seen a rapid growth in migrant numbers since the end of the pandemic, raising concerns last year that it was fanning inflation. A Reserve Bank-commissioned report released last month into the possible links between migration levels and inflation was inconclusive.

Stanford said the changes would also reduce the vulnerability of migrants to exploitation.

In February, the Public Service Commission released its review of the AEWV scheme, which former immigration minister Andrew Little ordered after complaints of exploitation. The commission found that a small number of “unscrupulous employers” targeted the scheme and took payments from people wanting to move to New Zealand.

“By having an English-language requirement migrants will be better able to understand their rights or raise concerns about an employer early,” Stanford said.

The government had scrapped plans to add 11 new roles to the Green List – a list of highly skilled roles that New Zealand is struggling to fill – including welders, and fitters and turners.

Neighbouring Australia, which has also seen a big increase in migration, has said it would halve its migrant intake over the next two years.

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35 VISA-FREE Countries for Canadian PR Holders [2024 Edition]
As a Canadian PR card holder, you can enjoy VISA-FREE travel to certain countries. As of 2024, there are 35 VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders. This includes Mexico, countries in the Caribbean, Central America, Europe and Asia. In this article, you will learn which countries Canadian permanent residents can travel to without visa along ...
23 Canada PR Holder Visa Free Countries
If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Mexico without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 6 months (that is 180 days) maximum. 17. Nicaragua. If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Nicaragua without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days within 180 days) maximum.
Eligible travellers from 13 more countries now qualify for visa-free
Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania later that year. Today, eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada. Within the next year, Canada expects to receive 200,000 (or 20%) more visitors from these 13 countries. Within a decade, increased travel from these countries is ...
Which Countries Can Canadian PR Travel Without Visa?
Similar to Cuba, the Dominican Republic allows Canadian permanent residents to stay for 30 days without a visa upon entry. There is however a mandatory $10 US dollar fee per traveler for a Dominican Republic Tourist Card, which is generally included in the cost of airfare. Like most other countries on this list, your passport must not expire ...
Which Countries Can You Travel To On Your Canadian PR Card?
Here is a list of countries you can travel to visa-free if you have a Canadian PR Card! All Dutch Caribbean territories (90 days) Anguilla (maximum 3 months) Bahamas (maximum 3 months) Bermuda (maximum 6 months) British Virgin Islands (maximum 6 months) Cayman Islands (2 months max) - Must arrive directly from Canada/US.
Entry requirements by country or territory
Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. As of April 26, 2022, lawful permanent residents of the United States must show these documents for all methods of travel to Canada: a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document) and. a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United ...
Travelling outside of Canada as a permanent resident
Your PR card can be used to show you have permanent resident status in Canada. When you are going to travel outside of Canada, you should make sure you have a valid permanent resident (PR) card before you leave Canada. Travelling in a commercial vehicle. A commercial vehicle can be an airplane, bus, boat, train or bus.
Canada introducing visa-free travel to 13 countries
Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, visited Winnipeg today for an announcement regarding visa-free travel. Passport holders from 13 countries will now be able to travel to Canada by air without requiring a Temporary Residence Visa. However, this applies only to travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently ...
13 more countries are now visa exempt
Later that year, Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania. Eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada to this day. Within the next 12 months, Canada expects to receive 200,000 (or 20 percent) more visitors from these 13 countries.
Canada Passport Visa Free Countries
Some of the most popular visa-free destinations for Canadian passport holders include: Europe: Canadian passport holders can visit all 27 Schengen Zone countries without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. This includes popular tourist destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Caribbean and Central America: Visa free travel is ...
13 Additional Countries Now Qualify for Visa-Free Travel to Canada
In an announcement made by immigration minister Sean Fraser, eligible applicants from 13 countries could qualify for visa-free travel. 13 countries have now been added to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program. Passport holders from these 13 countries travelling by air will now be able to travel to Canada without needing a Temporary ...
Canada Expands Visa Free Travel Program to 13 More Countries
By Kawal Sharma 6 June 2023. In an effort to enhance its immigration programs and services, Canada has expanded its electronic travel authorization (eTA) program, allowing citizens from 13 more countries to qualify for visa-free travel to the country. This update aims to make travel to Canada more efficient and accessible for individuals around ...
Canada Opens Up Visa-Free Travel To Eligible ...
Canada has introduced visa-free travel for travellers from 13 new countries, including five in the Caribbean.. Immigration Minister Sean Fraser on Tuesday opened the countries to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program.. To qualify, travellers from the 13 countries must have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant ...
IRCC Adds 13 New Nations To List Of Visa-Free Countries
As per one of the expectations posted by INC - Immigration News Canada, IRCC adds 13 nations to the list of visa-free countries. New countries eligible for visa-free travel to Canada: Panama, Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kits and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay ...
Visa on Arrival Countries for Canadian PR Card Holders
I think by the time you get through this list, you'll already be a Canadian citizen so you will have even more flexibility with travel:-. Aruba - 90 days. Anguilla - maximum 3 months. Bahamas - 90 days. Barbados - dependent on nationality. Check with the embassy. Bermuda - maximum 6 months. Bonaire - 90 days.
List of Visa-Free countries to Canada
The newly added countries that now qualify for visa-free travel to Canada include Panama, Antigua and Barbados in the Caribbean, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and the Philippines. Effective immediately, individuals from these ...
Canada announces visa-free travel expansion for 13 countries, new
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced visa-free travel for visitors from 13 different countries across Asia, Africa, Central and South America during a visit to Winnipeg's international ...
Canada permanent resident card
However, there is no legal requirement for a permanent resident to carry a PR card at all times. Outside Canada. For visa-free travels, Canadian permanent residents require a PR card, unless the person's passport in itself is sufficient for exemption. A Canadian PR card holder may travel visa-free to the following countries if not already ...
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New Rules For Immigration To Canada: PR and Visa-Free Travel🚀 Book a consultation with Max Medyk: https://calendly.com/maxmedyk/private-consultation-with-ma...
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Follow these steps to fill out the online form: Sign in to your account. Click the link to apply for permanent residence under Express Entry. When filling out the form: Make sure you submit all of the required documents. All of your answers must be complete and true. Make sure all the mandatory fields are completed, or you won't be able to ...
Canada Permanent Resident Visa: Everything You Need to Know
One crucial detail to note when planning to immigrate to Canada permanently is that IRCC has very specific passport photo requirements for permanent residence applications: A commercial photographer must take the photo. The photo must be 50 mm x 70 mm in size. The photo must be clear, sharp, and in focus.
Canada PR Benefits: What Are The Benefits of Canadian PR Visa?
Canadian PR holders have the liberty to travel in and outside Canada several times. It also gives you the freedom to relocate and settle in any province. You can look for new employment, a new opportunity, or other sources of income all around the country. 7. High quality of living standards.
Canada's Express Entry Draw Results from April 11, 2024
Note: ITAs are the only way an Express Entry candidate can apply for PR in Canada. Category-Based Express Entry Draws First conducted in June 2023, IRCC first introduced category-based draws in May last year as a way to attract Canadian immigration candidates with specific types of work experience and proficiencies, which the department deemed ...
New Zealand tightens visa rules after migration hits 'unsustainable
Net migration to New Zealand hit a near record high in 2023 after a new temporary work visa was introduced after the pandemic Eva Corlett in Wellington and agencies Mon 8 Apr 2024 01.58 EDT Last ...