Check eligibility under a Canadian immigration program (Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, Family Sponsorship, Study Permit, Work Permit)
If eligible for Express Entry, create an online Express Entry profile (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class)
Gather required documents (passport, language test results, education credentials, work history, police certificates, medical exam as required)
Take language tests from an approved provider (IELTS CELPIP TEF TCF as applicable)
Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if required
Obtain proof of work experience (reference letters, contracts, payslips, job descriptions)
Submit the Express Entry application if invited; otherwise monitor your profile status and update information
If using a Provincial Nominee Program, apply to the province’s stream that matches your profile and meet its criteria
After a provincial nomination, submit the federal portion of the application (often tied to Express Entry)
If using a job offer route, apply for a Work Permit through an employer-supported process (LMIA or LMIA-exempt pathways)
Confirm whether your job offer requires LMIA or qualifies for an LMIA-exempt category
Submit the Work Permit application with required supporting documents and biometrics (if requested)
Consider studying in Canada as a pathway (apply to a Designated Learning Institution and obtain a Study Permit)
After study, follow eligibility steps for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if applicable
Use work experience gained in Canada to support permanent residence applications (often via Express Entry or PNP)
Complete biometrics when requested
Prepare for medical exams and provide police certificates when required
Submit the permanent residence application (if applicable) and respond to requests from IRCC
Track application status in your IRCC account
Receive decision and, if approved, prepare for landing in Canada
Pay landing fees and complete any final steps requested by IRCC
Plan for Canadian settlement steps after arrival (housing, healthcare registration, banking, SIN application, provincial requirements)