Pathways to Obtain Permanent Residency in Canada Starting in 2025

These are the options available at the start of 2025 to obtain permanent residency in Canada. If you are considering making Canada your new home, here is a summary of the key programs that will be open or continuously accepting applications as of January 1:

1. Family Sponsorship

You have the option to sponsor your family members to become permanent residents. Eligible family members include:

• Spouse, partner, or children.

• Parents and grandparents.

• Orphaned siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren who:

  • Are under 18 years old.

  • Are single.

• Other relatives in specific circumstances if you have no other eligible family members.

It is important to meet the specific requirements of each case. Evaluate your situation with us through this link.

2. Immigrate Through Express Entry

The Express Entry system manages skilled worker applications under three main programs:

• Canadian Experience Class: For those with work experience in Canada.

• Federal Skilled Worker Program: For skilled workers with foreign experience.

• Federal Skilled Trades Program: For those skilled in specific trades.

If eligible, you can also apply through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to receive additional points for a quicker invitation.

3. Atlantic Immigration Program

This program targets skilled workers and international graduates who wish to live in one of the Atlantic provinces:

• New Brunswick

• Nova Scotia

• Prince Edward Island

• Newfoundland and Labrador

It requires a job offer from a designated employer and meeting program requirements.

4. Start-Up Visa Program

Ideal for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that can create jobs in Canada and compete globally. Requirements include:

• Securing support from a designated organization.

• Meeting language proficiency requirements.

• Having sufficient funds to settle.

You can work in Canada while waiting for your residency if your business provides significant economic benefits.

5. Agri-Food Pilot

Designed for experienced workers in the agricultural sector, this program is open until May 14, 2025. Recent changes make it easier to meet requirements if you already reside in Canada.

6. Immigration to Francophone Communities Outside Quebec

The Destination Canada Mobility Forum 2025 connects Francophone or bilingual candidates with employers in Francophone communities outside Quebec. The event includes:

• Information on immigration procedures.

• Connections with provinces and employers.

• Access to virtual workshops and resources until June 2025.

7. Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot

This program is for skilled refugees and displaced persons seeking permanent work in Canada. Eligibility is based on your work experience, education, and language skills.

8. Pathways for Hong Kong Residents

Open until August 31, 2026, this program offers two streams:

• Stream A: Graduates in Canada. You must have completed an educational program at a recognized Canadian institution within the past three years. Additionally, you need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French with a minimum level 5 score in all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). Temporary resident status in Canada is required at the time of application.

• Stream B: Canadian Work Experience. You must have worked continuously in Canada for at least 12 months in the three years prior to your application. The work must have been legally performed, excluding periods as a full-time student or self-employment. You must also meet language requirements and have temporary resident status in Canada.

Both streams require applicants to intend to live outside the province of Quebec.

9. Permanent Residency for Families of Victims of Flight PS752

Open until October 27, 2025, this program allows certain family members of victims of Flight PS752 to apply for permanent residency if they meet the established criteria. Eligible applicants include:

• The victim's spouse or common-law partner.

• Children, grandchildren, parents, or grandparents of the victim.

• Siblings, including half-siblings.

Additionally, family members of the victim's spouse or common-law partner may be eligible if they are children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, or siblings.

The application process requires submitting documentation proving the relationship to the victim and meeting standard immigration requirements, such as medical and security screenings.

Do You Qualify for Any of These Categories?

Contact us to start your application safely. At Immigria, we have government-certified Canadian immigration consultants ready to guide and represent you through the process.

Note: Permanent residency programs in Quebec will resume in June 2025. We will post updates here, so follow us on social media to stay informed.

Source: IRCC

Adapted by Immigria Editorial Team