The following table compares the different options for getting Canadian PR:
|
Pathway |
Who It’s For |
Processing Time (avg.) |
Government Fees (CAD) |
Key Advantages |
|
Express Entry(Federal Skilled Worker Program) |
Skilled workers in abroad with education, work experience, and English/French skills |
6 to 7 months |
1,525 single applicant (processing + RPRF) |
Fastest route, points-based, high transparency |
|
Express Entry(Canadian Experience Class) |
Skilled workers with Canadian work experience for more than one year |
5 months |
1,525 |
Prioritizes applicants already in Canada, lower CRS cut-offs |
|
Express Entry for aligned PNP |
Skilled workers nominated by provinces for in-demand jobs |
8 months |
1,525 (plus PNP fee: $250–$1,500 depending on province) |
600 CRS boost almost guarantees ITA |
|
Non Express Entry PNP |
Workers selected by provinces but not eligible for Express Entry |
20 months |
1,525 + PNP fee |
Opportunity for lower CRS profiles |
|
Family Sponsorship |
Spouses, partners, dependent children of Canadian PRs/citizens |
12 months |
1,050 |
Lower cost, no CRS/points needed |
|
Quebec Skilled Worker Program |
Skilled workers wishing to live in Quebec |
9 months |
1,525 + Quebec fees (CAD 869 principal applicant) |
Independent selection by Quebec |
|
Caregiver Programs |
Caregivers, home support workers with Canadian job offers |
12–18 months (varies) |
1,525 |
Direct PR after Canadian experience, strong demand |
|
Study → PGWP → PR (Indirect) |
Students completing study in Canada, gaining Canadian work experience |
2–5 years total (study + work + PR) |
Tuition CAD 15,000–25,000/year + PR fees |
Builds Canadian credentials, high PR success rate |