A permanent resident is someone who permanently lives in Canada but was not born in Canada. Permanent residents can apply to become Canadian citizens as long as they have a proven history of financial self-sufficiency and generally benefit Canada.

To become a permanent resident, applicants must get in contact with the Canadian immigration department formally known as the immigration, refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The IRCC can assist applicants in applying for permanent residency.

There are several benefits to becoming a Canadian permanent resident. These include health care, the Canadian Pension Plan, Employment Insurance, the Right to Live, the ability to study and work anywhere inside Canada, and protection under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. There are some restrictions that differentiate permanent residents from Canadian citizens. These restrictions prevent permanent residents from running for political office, or the ability to work for specific employers who may engage in highly controlled industries like Cannabis or escort services.

Permanent residents can renew their status every 5 years. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to maintain that status. Some of these requirements include living inside Canada for 2 years within the last five years, having no criminal history, and having a proven track record of financial self-sufficiency. If you have lived outside of Canada as a permanent resident for more than 2 years, you may be able to maintain your status if you were accompanying a Canadian citizen on travel, accompanying another permanent resident on travel outside of Canada, and gainful employment outside of Canada.

Once you become a permanent resident, you will be issued a PR card. This card can be used for re-entry back into Canada. You will be expected to travel with this card and must submit the card for review when questioned by a Canadian authority.