Canadian Permanent Residency – The Rules

Canadian permanent residency is basically the “grand prize” of immigrating to Canada. Canadian permanent residency is almost every immigrant’s dream (those who go to Canada, of course) because it basically marks that finish line. Your journey is over – you finally made it.

However (yes, we know that you saw this coming), it’s important to note that Canadian permanent residency comes with certain responsibilities. After all, becoming a permanent resident is not the same as being a citizen.

The Permanent Residency Card

You must carry your permanent residency card at all times to be able to board trains, buses, boats, or flights going into or out of Canada. Additionally, you need to make sure to apply for a new permanent residency card once the one you hold expires because otherwise you will no longer be considered a Canada permanent resident (you will not lose your status just yet, but this can cause complications).

Permanent Residency Restrictions

With Canadian permanent residency, you can enjoy social benefits such as free health care, subsidized education, the freedom to travel, study, and work anywhere in Canada, receive protection under Canadian law, and more. However, you can’t vote, run for political office, and hold specific jobs with high-level security clearance.

Maintaining Your Permanent Residency Status

To keep your permanent residency status in Canada, you must live in Canada for 730 days during a five-year time frame. These 730 days don’t have to be continuous AND some time abroad can count towards your permanent residency status.

If you are not yet a Canadian permanent resident and would like to apply for a Canadian visa with a pathway to permanent residency, contact a personal immigration agent at the Great North Visa today!

There are many visa options available for people who would like to immigrate to Canada: work visas, sponsor visas, family visas, and more. Your agent will be able to check your eligibility for a Canadian visa and provide professional consultation.

Click below to get in touch!