How Nigerian Can Apply for Canadian Permanent Residency

Many Nigerians dream of relocating to Canada for enhanced job prospects, quality of life, and access to top-notch education and healthcare, especially for their children.

Luckily, Nigerian citizens have various pathways to apply for a Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) Card.

Here’s a guide on how to become a permanent resident in Canada.

What is a Canada Permanent Residency (PR) Card?

A Canada PR Card confirms your status as a permanent resident in Canada. Holding this card allows you to:

1. Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.

2 . Access social benefits like healthcare.

3 . Apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting certain conditions.

4. Travel in and out of Canada freely.

Best Pathways for Nigerians to Obtain Permanent Residency in Canada:

Express Entry System: This is a swift and popular method for skilled workers to gain permanent residency. It includes:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For professionals with international work experience.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with Canadian work experience.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled tradespeople.

Here is the Process:

1. Create an Express Entry profile and get a score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

2. If your score is high enough, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

3. You can then submit a PR application, which might be processed in as little as six months.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) If you have specific skills needed in certain Canadian provinces, this program might be for you. Successful applicants get points that boost their Express Entry profile.

Family Sponsorship If you have close family in Canada, they might be able to sponsor your PR application. Eligible relatives include spouses, parents, and children.

Study in Canada Studying in Canada can pave the way to permanent residency, especially through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) This program is for job seekers who receive a valid job offer from employers in Atlantic Canada. It’s open to skilled workers and recent graduates from Atlantic Canadian institutions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Canada PR from Nigeria:

• Step 1: Use the ‘Come to Canada’ tool on the Government of Canada website to check your eligibility.
  
• Step 2: Take a language test, such as the IELTS for English, to demonstrate your proficiency.
  
• Step 3: If applicable, create an Express Entry profile and enter the CRS pool.
  
• Step 4: Wait for an ITA for PR.
  
• Step 5: Submit your PR application with the necessary documents, medical exams, and fees.
  
• Step 6: Once approved, you’ll receive your PR Card upon arrival in Canada.
  

Timeframe:

• Express Entry: Approximately 6 months.
  
• PNP: Between 12 to 18 months.
  
• Family Sponsorship: About 12 months.
  
• Study Route: Between 2 to 4 years.