Visa requirements

Canada

General visa requirements for travelling to Canada. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Work / Immigration visa (Provincial Nominee Program (PNP))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Express Entry stream: 6 months; Non-Express Entry: 15-19 months
Fee: CAD $1,525 (federal processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,100 (plus provincial fees vary)
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Permanent residence through provincial or territorial nomination. Two streams: Express Entry aligned (faster, 600 CRS bonus points) and non-Express Entry (paper-based). Each province/territory has its own streams with different requirements. Quebec and Nunavut do not have PNPs. Provincial fees are separate and vary. Must demonstrate intent to live in the nominating province.

Eligibility

Employment
Must meet the skills, education, and work experience requirements of the specific provincial/territorial PNP stream. Requirements vary significantly by province.
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds. Amount varies by province, stream, and family size.
Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada. Police certificates required.
Health
Must pass immigration medical examination.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, investment certificates; Minimum amount: Varies by province and family size
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Provincial nomination
Accepted provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes, must use IRCC-designated panel physician; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: Varies by province and stream, typically CLB 4-7

How to apply

Online application
Apply to the province or territory's PNP stream. Visit the specific province's immigration website. Requirements and process differ by province and stream.
Document submission
After receiving nomination, apply for permanent residence federally. Express Entry stream: nomination adds 600 CRS points. Non-Express Entry: submit paper or online application to IRCC.
Fee payment
Pay federal processing fee of CAD $1,525 per adult plus CAD $575 RPRF per adult, plus any provincial fees.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
Processing wait
Express Entry stream: 6 months target. Non-Express Entry: 15-19 months typical.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Open Work Permit (Bridging/Spousal))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 4-12 weeks
Fee: CAD $255 (work permit $155 + open work permit holder fee $100)
Validity: Varies by category, typically 1-2 years
Entry: Single entry

Open work permits allow holder to work for any employer in Canada. Available to: spouses of skilled workers/international students (TEER 0-3 only as of Jan 21, 2025), bridging open work permit holders awaiting PR decision, vulnerable workers, and certain other categories. Dependent children no longer eligible as of January 21, 2025.

Eligibility

Employment
Must fall into an eligible category: spouse of skilled worker (TEER 0-3), spouse of international student at university/polytechnic, bridging OWP applicant with pending PR application, or other specific categories.
Visa history
For bridging OWP: must have submitted a complete permanent residence application and current work permit must be expiring within 4 months.

Required history: Valid work or study permit, or pending PR application

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: IMM 1295 - Application for Work Permit (Open); Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/open-work-permit-spouses-dependent-children.html
Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 2; Relationship type: Spouse or common-law partner of principal work/study permit holder

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather proof of relationship (for spousal OWP), proof of principal applicant's valid permit, or proof of pending PR application (for bridging OWP).
Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal with supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $255 (work permit $155 + open work permit holder fee $100).
Processing wait
Wait for processing. Times vary by application type and location.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Express Entry - Canadian Experience Class (CEC))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 6 months from Invitation to Apply
Fee: CAD $1,525 (processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,100 per principal applicant
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Permanent residence pathway for skilled workers with Canadian work experience. Must have gained experience while authorized to work in Canada. No education requirement or minimum funds requirement for CEC. Ranked through Express Entry CRS system alongside FSW and FST applicants.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have at least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 within last 3 years. Work must have been authorized.
Criminal record
Must not be inadmissible to Canada. Police certificates required from all countries of residence.
Health
Must pass immigration medical examination by designated panel physician.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre or Application Support Center
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes, must use IRCC-designated panel physician; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs; CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs

How to apply

Document gathering
Take approved language tests, gather Canadian employment reference letters with detailed job duties and hours, and collect identity documents.
Online application
Create Express Entry profile with Canadian work experience details and language scores. System calculates CRS score.
Document submission
Submit complete application within 60 days of ITA with all supporting documents, police certificates, and medical exam results.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,525 processing fee plus CAD $575 RPRF per adult applicant.
Processing wait
Processing target is 6 months from complete application submission.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Express Entry - Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 6 months from Invitation to Apply
Fee: CAD $1,525 (processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,100 per principal applicant
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Permanent residence pathway under Express Entry. Must score 67+ on FSW selection grid (out of 100). Ranked in Express Entry pool using Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Invited candidates have 60 days to submit complete application. As of March 25, 2025, job offer points removed from CRS. Must plan to live outside Quebec. Spouse/partner fee: CAD $1,525 processing + $575 RPRF. Dependent child fee: CAD $260.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have at least 1 year (1,560 hours) of continuous skilled work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation within last 10 years. Must be paid work (not volunteer or unpaid internship).
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds based on family size unless currently authorized to work in Canada with a valid job offer. Funds range from CAD $14,690 (single) to higher amounts for larger families.
Criminal record
Must not be inadmissible to Canada on security, criminal, or other grounds. Police certificates required from all countries of residence.
Health
Must pass immigration medical examination by designated panel physician. Must not pose a danger to public health or safety.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, investment certificates, proof of assets convertible to cash; Minimum amount: Varies by family size: 1 person CAD $14,690; 2 persons CAD $18,288; 3 persons CAD $22,483; 4 persons CAD $27,297
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre or Application Support Center
Credential assessment
Accepted agencies: WES, IQAS, CES, MCC, PEBC, ICAS (any IRCC-designated organization); Validity months: 60
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes, must use IRCC-designated panel physician; Validity months: 12
Points assessment
Assessment system: FSW 67-point selection grid plus Express Entry CRS ranking; Minimum points: 67
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 7 in all four abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing) for first official language

How to apply

Document gathering
Take language tests (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF/TCF), obtain Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), gather employment reference letters with job duties and hours, and collect proof of funds.
Online application
Create Express Entry profile online. Enter education, work experience, language scores, and other details. System calculates CRS score and places you in the pool.
Document submission
After receiving ITA, submit complete application within 60 days. Include police certificates, medical exam results, proof of funds, all supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,525 processing fee per adult applicant plus CAD $575 Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) per adult. Dependent children: CAD $260 each.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at designated collection point if not previously provided within the last 10 years.
Processing wait
IRCC aims to process most Express Entry applications within 6 months of receiving complete application. Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued upon approval.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Work Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 2-14 weeks; Global Skills Strategy eligible for 2-week processing
Fee: CAD $155 (LMIA-exempt)
Validity: Up to 3 years for specialized knowledge workers, 7 years for executives/managers
Entry: Single entry

LMIA-exempt work permit for employees being transferred within a multinational company to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company. Three categories: executives, senior managers, and specialized knowledge workers. Must have been employed by the company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years. Canadian and foreign operations must have a qualifying corporate relationship. Also available under CUSMA (for US/Mexico nationals) and other free trade agreements.

Eligibility

Employment
Must be currently employed by a multinational company in an executive, senior management, or specialized knowledge capacity. Must have worked for the company for at least 1 year within the past 3 years. Canadian entity must have a qualifying relationship with the foreign entity.
Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre in your country
Company registration
Provide company registration evidence for the inviting, sponsoring or employing organisation.

Accepted documents: Proof of qualifying corporate relationship between foreign and Canadian entities, business registration documents, organizational charts
Ict assignment
Corporate relationship: Parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate; Minimum employment years: 1

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather proof of corporate relationship between entities, employment verification showing 1+ year tenure, detailed job description for Canadian position, and proof of specialized knowledge or executive/managerial role.
Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal. Employer may need to submit offer through the IRCC Employer Portal first to obtain an employer compliance fee receipt.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $155 work permit processing fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee. Employer pays $230 employer compliance fee.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
Processing wait
Global Skills Strategy eligible applications aim for 2-week processing. Standard processing varies.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) - Low-wage Stream)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Varies by country, typically 4-16 weeks
Fee: CAD $155 (work permit) + $85 (biometrics). Employer pays $1,000 LMIA fee.
Validity: Up to 2 years
Entry: Single entry

Employer-specific work permit for low-wage positions (below provincial/territorial median wage). Employer must obtain positive LMIA. Subject to cap on proportion of low-wage TFWs employer can hire (20% cap). Employer must provide or ensure affordable housing available. Tied to specific employer and job location.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have valid job offer from Canadian employer with positive LMIA. Position must be at a wage below the provincial/territorial median hourly wage.
Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.
Health
Medical exam may be required depending on occupation and country of origin.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Labor market assessment
Assessment number: LMIA confirmation number; Issuing authority: Employment and Social Development Canada

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain LMIA number from employer, job offer letter, employment contract, and identity documents.
Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal with LMIA details and supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $155 work permit fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
Processing wait
Processing varies by country.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Approximately 80-180 days
Fee: CAD $255 (work permit $155 + open work permit holder $100)
Validity: 8 months to 3 years depending on program length
Entry: Single entry

Open work permit for international graduates of eligible Canadian DLIs. Must apply within 180 days of completing studies. Permit length matches study program length (8 months to 3 years). Master's degree graduates may receive 3-year permits regardless of program length. As of November 1, 2024, language proficiency proof required (CLB 7 for university graduates, CLB 5 for college). Field of study must align with occupations in long-term shortage.

Eligibility

Purpose of visit
Must have completed a program of study at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution that was at least 8 months long. Must have maintained full-time status during studies.
Includes
- Open employment in Canada after graduation
Visa history
Must have held a valid study permit at some point during the 180 days after graduation. Must apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion.

Required history: Valid study permit during program

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: IMM 5710 - Application to Change Conditions, Extend Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker; Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/apply.html
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.

Must be current: No; Must be original: Yes
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, CELPIP (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 7 for university graduates, CLB 5 for college/polytechnic graduates

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain official letter of program completion or transcript from DLI, valid language test results (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF/TCF), and valid passport.
Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal within 180 days of completing studies. Upload proof of completion, language test results, and identity documents.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $255 (work permit processing fee of $155 plus open work permit holder fee of $100).
Processing wait
Wait for processing. May be eligible for interim work authorization while application is pending. Check processing times on IRCC website.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (International Experience Canada (IEC) - Working Holiday)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 2-8 weeks after invitation
Fee: CAD $184.75 (IEC participation fee) + $100 (open work permit holder fee) + $85 (biometrics) = CAD $369.75
Validity: Up to 2 years depending on country agreement
Entry: Multiple entry

Open work permit for youth from countries with bilateral youth mobility agreements. Three categories: Working Holiday (open work permit), Young Professionals (employer-specific), International Co-op (employer-specific internship). Age limit typically 18-35, but varies by country (some 18-29 or 18-30). Random selection from candidate pool. 2026 season pools are open. Switzerland only offers Young Professionals and International Co-op (no Working Holiday).

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of a country with a youth mobility agreement with Canada. 36 countries/territories participate including Australia, UK, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and others.

Eligible countries: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Province of China, United Kingdom
Age
Must be between 18 and 35 years old at time of application (some countries limit to 18-29 or 18-30). Age determined at time pool entry.

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have sufficient funds for initial period in Canada (recommended CAD $2,500) and must have health insurance for duration of stay.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statement, proof of available funds; Minimum amount: CAD $2,500 recommended for initial settlement
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Canada - must include health, hospitalization, and repatriation; Minimum coverage: Coverage for duration of stay
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre in your country

How to apply

Online application
Create IEC profile on IRCC portal and submit candidacy to the Working Holiday pool. Candidates are randomly selected through periodic draws.
Document submission
After receiving invitation, accept within 10 days. Then submit work permit application within 20 days with all required documents including proof of insurance and funds.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $184.75 IEC participation fee plus CAD $100 open work permit holder fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point if not previously provided.
Processing wait
Wait for work permit processing, typically 2-8 weeks.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Family Sponsorship - Spouse, Partner, or Dependent Child)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 12 months for inland applications, varies for overseas
Fee: CAD $1,205 (sponsor fee) + $575 (RPRF) + $85 (biometrics) = CAD $1,865 for spouse
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent children for permanent residence. No income requirement for sponsoring spouse/partner/dependent children. Sponsor must sign an undertaking to provide for basic needs for 3 years from date PR is granted. Sponsored spouse in Canada may be eligible for open work permit while application is being processed.

Eligibility

Nationality
Sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and living in Canada (or planning to return if citizen abroad). Cannot sponsor if receiving social assistance (other than disability), under a removal order, in prison, bankrupt, or previously failed sponsorship undertaking.
Criminal record
Sponsored person must be admissible to Canada. Both sponsor and sponsored person undergo background checks.
Health
Sponsored person must pass immigration medical examination. Excessive demand on health/social services may be waived for spouse/partner/dependent children.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where sponsored person lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: IMM 1344 (Sponsorship), IMM 0008 (Generic Application for PR), IMM 5669 (Schedule A), IMM 5406 (Additional Family Info); Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-5289-sponsor-your-spouse-common-law-partner-conjugal-partner-dependent-child-complete-guide.html
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 3; Relationship type: Spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather marriage/partnership evidence, proof of genuine relationship (photos, communications, joint accounts, travel records), police certificates, and medical exam results.
Online application
Submit sponsorship application and permanent residence application simultaneously online through IRCC portal.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,205 sponsorship fee plus CAD $575 RPRF for spouse. Dependent children: $170 each (no RPRF for children under 22).
Biometrics
Sponsored person provides biometrics at designated collection point.
Processing wait
Processing time approximately 12 months. Sponsor receives acknowledgement of receipt first, then staged processing begins.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Express Entry - Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 6 months from Invitation to Apply
Fee: CAD $1,525 (processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,100 per principal applicant
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Permanent residence pathway for skilled tradespeople. Must have work experience in an eligible skilled trade under specific NOC groups including industrial/mechanical/electrical trades, maintenance/equipment operations, supervisors/technical jobs in natural resources/agriculture, processing/manufacturing/utilities, chefs/cooks, butchers/bakers. No education requirement from IRCC but must meet requirements of trade.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have at least 2 years of full-time skilled trade work experience within last 5 years. Trade must be in an eligible NOC group. Must have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification in the trade.
Criminal record
Must not be inadmissible to Canada. Police certificates required from all countries of residence.
Health
Must pass immigration medical examination by designated panel physician.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Professional license
Accepted licenses: Certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority, or valid job offer from up to 2 employers; Must be translated: No
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes, must use IRCC-designated panel physician; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 5 for speaking and listening; CLB 4 for reading and writing

How to apply

Document gathering
Take language tests, gather employment reference letters, obtain certificate of qualification or job offer letter, and collect identity documents.
Online application
Create Express Entry profile with skilled trade work experience and qualifications.
Document submission
Submit complete application within 60 days of ITA.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,525 processing fee plus CAD $575 RPRF per adult applicant.
Processing wait
Processing target is 6 months from complete application.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Family Sponsorship - Parents and Grandparents)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Approximately 24 months
Fee: CAD $1,205 (sponsor fee) + $575 (RPRF) + $85 (biometrics) = CAD $1,865 per parent
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor parents and grandparents for permanent residence. Limited intake: 10,000 complete applications accepted for 2025. Sponsor must meet minimum necessary income (MNI) for 3 consecutive tax years. Sponsor undertaking lasts 20 years. Co-signer (spouse/partner) income can be combined. Interest-to-sponsor process opens periodically.

Eligibility

Nationality
Sponsor must be Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, living in Canada. Must meet Minimum Necessary Income for 3 consecutive tax years.
Financial
Sponsor must meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) threshold for 3 consecutive tax years (2022, 2023, 2024 for 2025 intake). Income includes employment income, self-employment, EI, pensions, but excludes social assistance and provincial child benefits.
Health
Sponsored person must pass immigration medical examination.
Criminal record
Sponsored person must be admissible to Canada.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where sponsored person lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre
Birth certificate
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: Varies by family size: 1 person $30,526; 2 persons $38,002; 3 persons $46,720; 4 persons $56,724; 5 persons $64,336; 6 persons $72,560; 7 persons $80,784; Required documents: Notice of Assessment (NOA) from CRA for 3 consecutive tax years, T4 slips, employment letters
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12

How to apply

Online application
Submit interest to sponsor through IRCC portal during open intake period. If selected, receive Invitation to Apply.
Document gathering
After invitation, gather sponsor's tax documents (3 years), proof of relationship (birth certificates), sponsored person's police certificates, and medical exam results.
Document submission
Submit complete sponsorship and permanent residence application within specified deadline.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,205 sponsorship fee plus CAD $575 RPRF per sponsored adult.
Biometrics
Sponsored person provides biometrics.
Processing wait
Processing takes approximately 24 months for applications destined outside Quebec.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (LMIA-based Work Permit (Employer-Specific))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 2-16 weeks depending on country and stream
Fee: CAD $155 (work permit) + $85 (biometrics). Employer pays $1,000 LMIA fee separately.
Validity: Duration of job offer, typically 1-3 years
Entry: Single entry

Employer-specific work permit requiring a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Employer must prove no Canadian worker available. LMIA fee of CAD $1,000 paid by employer. Global Skills Strategy offers 2-week processing for eligible applications. Tied to specific employer, position, and location.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer supported by a positive LMIA. Must demonstrate qualifications and experience for the position.
Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.
Health
May need medical exam if working in health care, child care, primary/secondary education, or if from a designated country and staying 6+ months.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: IMM 1295 - Application for Work Permit; Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/work-permit/apply.html
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/where-to-give-biometrics.html; Location: Visa Application Centre in your country
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Labor market assessment
Assessment number: LMIA confirmation number provided by employer; Issuing authority: Employment and Social Development Canada

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain LMIA number from Canadian employer, gather job offer letter, employment contract, qualifications proof, and identity documents.
Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal. Provide LMIA number, job offer details, and upload supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $155 work permit processing fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point within 30 days of instruction letter.
Processing wait
Wait for processing. Global Skills Strategy applications aim for 2-week processing. Standard processing varies by country.
Visa collection
If approved, receive Port of Entry Letter of Introduction. If visa-required, receive TRV stamp. Present documents at border to receive work permit.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot (Caregiver))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 12-24 months
Fee: CAD $1,525 (processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,100
Validity: Permanent residence
Entry: Single entry

Pathway to permanent residence for caregivers in home child care (NOC 44100) and home support worker (NOC 44101) roles. Replaces previous Live-in Caregiver Program. Applicants must have a qualifying job offer. Two streams: one for those with Canadian work experience, one for those applying from abroad. Minimum CLB 4 language proficiency required. Must have Canadian high school equivalent education or higher.

Eligibility

Employment
Must have 6 months of continuous full-time relevant work experience in last 3 years and completed a relevant training credential in last 2 years. Job offer must be in NOC 44100 (home child care provider) or NOC 44101 (home support worker).
Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.
Health
Must pass immigration medical examination.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
Credential assessment
Accepted agencies: WES, IQAS, CES, MCC, PEBC, ICAS; Validity months: 60
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 4 in all four abilities

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather language test results, Educational Credential Assessment, employment references, job offer from Canadian employer, police certificates, and medical exam results.
Online application
Submit permanent residence application online through IRCC portal under the Home Care Worker pilot.
Fee payment
Pay CAD $1,525 processing fee plus CAD $575 RPRF.
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
Processing wait
Processing typically takes 12-24 months.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.