New programs open permanent residency pathways for 90,000+

by | Apr 29, 2021 | Immigration Law |

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people become Canadian citizens or permanent residents. These people represent families, business owners and economic contributors that enrich and improve this country. 

And at a time when some countries are creating obstacles to citizenship or permanent residency, Canada is offering more pathways. Recently, six new programs became available to provide new permanent residency options for more than 90,000 immigrants.

Who these programs affect

The six programs affect specific skilled workers and students already residing in Canadian provinces, including:

  • Temporary health care workers, or Stream A (20,000 applications)
  • Other essential workers in areas like food production and care, or Stream B (30,000 applications)
  • Students graduating from a Canadian institution (40,000 applications)

The three other streams will increase permanent residency opportunities for French-speaking and bilingual candidates. These streams have no cap and are in place to promote Canada’s official languages, which is one objective of Canadian immigration policies.

The increase in these applications is an attempt to reach the goal of welcoming 401,000 permanent residents in 2021.

Eligibility requirements

The specific eligibility requirements will depend on the stream for which a person qualifies. Generally, however, a person applying as a student or recent graduate should expect to show that they:

  • Are recent graduates of a Canadian post-secondary institution
  • Received a degree or diploma from an approved program
  • Have valid work permits and are employed
  • Are proficient in French, per a recent evaluation

Someone applying as an essential worker should expect to show that they:

  • Have at least one year of full-time work experience in a healthcare occupation (Stream A)
  • Have at least one year of full-time work experience in other essential jobs, including those listed here (Stream B)
  • Are proficient in either English or French

There are also requirements regarding where you live, where you plan to live, and the application’s completion.

Securing permanent residency

While many businesses, families and individuals are excited by these opportunities, they can still encounter challenges. Immigration programs, eligibility and application processes are not areas with which most people are familiar. 

Thus, having legal support as you or your loved one navigates this system can make it easier to pursue the desired outcome.