All routes
Eight pathways into Canada, explained end to end
Each guide covers who it suits, what you need, how long it takes, and the documents to collect.
Permanent residence
Express Entry
The main federal route to permanent residence for skilled workers.
About 6 months after an invitation
~$1,525 per adult + ~$260 per child
Provincial Nominee Program
A province picks you — and adds 600 CRS points.
6 to 18 months depending on the stream
$0 to $1,500 provincial fee + federal PR fees
Study Permit
Study at a designated institution, then transition to work and PR.
4 to 12 weeks in most countries
$150 permit fee + tuition + $20,635 living costs proof
Work Permit
Employer-specific or open permits to build Canadian experience.
2 weeks to 6 months, plus LMIA time
$155 permit fee (+$100 open permit holder fee)
Family Sponsorship
Bring a spouse, partner, child or parent to Canada permanently.
Spouse ~12 months; parents ~24-36 months
~$1,205 for a spouse; ~$1,205 per parent
Start-up Visa
Permanent residence for founders with designated investor backing.
About 3 years, work permit available sooner
~$2,300 per applicant + $264,668 designated fund threshold
Caregiver Pathways
Home care worker routes with permanent residence on arrival.
12 to 24 months
~$1,525 per adult
Canadian Citizenship
The final step after three years of physical presence.
About 12 months from application to ceremony
$630 per adult, $100 per child