Simplest Pathways to Immigrate to Canada
1. Express Entry
Canada expects to invite around 500,000 newcomers by 2025, many through Express Entry via these federal streams:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
Applicants submit an online profile and are ranked by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Top-ranked candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. While meeting the CRS threshold can be tough, being in the pool allows chances for provincial nomination. Estimated costs:
- About CAD 2,300 for a single applicant
- Around CAD 4,500 for a couple
Plus required settlement funds depending on family size
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial and territorial governments run their own nomination programs tailored to local labour needs. Many PNPs are linked directly with Express Entry, offering a significant advantage:
- A PNP nomination can add 600 CRS points, greatly enhancing chances of receiving an ITA
3. Business Immigration
Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals may qualify through federal or provincial business routes:
- Options include self-employment or starting a new business (Start-Up Visa)
- Often require less investment in regional entrepreneur programs for less-populated areas
4. Family Sponsorship
If you have a qualifying relative who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, family sponsorship can be a straightforward option:
Processing typically takes about 12 months for spousal sponsorship
Eligible relatives include spouses, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and other close relations
Estimated cost: around CAD 1,135, with additional fees if residing in Quebec
