Permanent resident program

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) facilitates the entry of permanent residents in a way that maximizes their economic, social and cultural contribution to Canada, while at the same time protecting the health, safety and security of Canadians.

Economic classes

Instructions for processing applications submitted under economic classes, for which applicants are selected on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada

  • Federal skilled workers
  • Quebec skilled workers
  • Provincial nominees
  • Entrepreneurs and self-employed persons
  • Canadian experience class
  • Federal skilled trades class
  • Investors
  • Start-up business class
  • Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot
  • Caring for children class and caring for people with high medical needs class
  • Interim Pathway for Caregivers
  • Live-in Caregiver Program
  • Immigrant investor venture capital class
  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot Programs (closed on March 5, 2022)
  • Atlantic Immigration Program
  • Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program (closed on August 31, 2024)
  • Agri-Food Pilot
  • Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Pathway
  • Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot

Note: IRCC will continue to process all applications received on or before the closing date.

Non-economic classes

Permanent resident card (PR card) and permanent resident status

For more information:

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2025-12-04