Question 1

What is permanent residence in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Permanent residence is a status that allows you to live, work, and study in Canada permanently. You enjoy most of the rights of Canadian citizens, including access to health care. After 3 years of permanent residence, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.

Question 2

What is the difference between Express Entry and provincial programs?

Accepted Answer

Express Entry is the federal points-based system (CRS) for skilled workers. Provincial programs (PNP) are managed by each province and target specific local workforce needs. Some candidates can use both in parallel to maximize their chances.

Question 3

How long does a permanent residence application take?

Accepted Answer

Duration varies by program. Express Entry: 6 to 12 months. Provincial program: 12 to 24 months. Family sponsorship: 12 to 36 months. These timelines are indicative and may vary depending on your file complexity and application volumes.

Question 4

Can permanent residence be revoked?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in limited circumstances: fraud in your application, serious criminal conviction, or failure to meet the physical presence obligation (you must be in Canada for at least 730 days over 5 years). Our firm guides you to maintain your status.

Question 5

What is the difference between a closed and open work permit?

Accepted Answer

A closed permit ties you to a specific employer (generally requires an LMIA). An open permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with some restrictions. Open permits are available for spouses of skilled workers, Canadian graduates (PGWP), and pending PR applicants.

Question 6

My work permit is expiring soon. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

You must act at least 90 days before expiration. Options: renewal of the same permit, change of category, implied status if a new application is submitted before expiration. Beyond 90 days after expiration, you must apply for status restoration with stricter conditions.

Question 7

What is the LMIA and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

The LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is an approval from Employment and Social Development Canada proving no Canadian can fill the position. Most closed work permits require a positive LMIA. Some categories are exempt: PNP, trade agreements, young professionals (IEC), etc.

Question 8

Can I change employers with a closed work permit?

Accepted Answer

No, unless you obtain a new work permit for the new employer. This generally involves a new LMIA. We can help you navigate this process while maintaining your legal status in Canada.

Question 9

Who can I sponsor for Canadian immigration?

Accepted Answer

You can sponsor your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children, your parents and grandparents. Siblings are generally not eligible except in very specific circumstances. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and meet income requirements.

Question 10

What is the timeline for family sponsorship?

Accepted Answer

Spousal sponsorship generally takes 12 to 18 months. Parent and grandparent sponsorship can take 24 to 36 months due to limited quotas. The Super Visa offers a fast alternative with stays of 5 years per visit.

Question 11

Can my spouse work during the sponsorship processing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with an open work permit (SOWP). If you are sponsoring your spouse from inside Canada (inland sponsorship), they can generally obtain an open work permit while waiting for the decision. This also speeds up financial integration.

Question 12

What are tuition fees for international students?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary by program and province. On average: $15,000 to $35,000 CAD per year for a bachelor's, $10,000 to $25,000 for college, and $20,000 to $50,000 for graduate studies (master's, PhD). You must also prove living funds of approximately $20,635 per year.

Question 13

Can I work while studying in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with a valid study permit, you can work up to 20 hours per week during regular sessions and full-time during school breaks. After your studies, you can apply for the PGWP (post-graduation work permit) of 1 to 3 years depending on your program length.

Question 14

I received an immigration refusal. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

A refusal is not final. Options: judicial review at the Federal Court, new corrected application with new evidence, appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division. The deadline to act is often 15 to 60 days depending on the decision type. Contact a lawyer immediately.

Question 15

My permit expired more than 90 days ago. Am I without hope?

Accepted Answer

No, but options are more limited. You may be eligible for regularization on humanitarian grounds if you have strong ties to Canada (family, employment, community). Every case is unique — an urgent consultation allows us to evaluate your options.

Question 16

How do I know if my employer is treating me legally?

Accepted Answer

Your employer must respect the conditions of your work permit (salary, hours, work location). They cannot withhold your documents, threaten your status, or pay you below the provincial minimum wage. These practices are illegal and you have recourse.

Question 17

When can I apply for Canadian citizenship?

Accepted Answer

After being a permanent resident for at least 3 of the last 5 years (1,095 days physically in Canada). You must demonstrate language skills in French or English and pass the citizenship test on Canadian history, values, and institutions.

Question 18

Is dual citizenship allowed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Canada allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your original citizenship to become a Canadian citizen. However, check your country of origin's laws, as some countries do not recognize it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Permanent Residence

Work Permits

Family Sponsorship

Studying in Canada

Emergencies & Refusals

Citizenship

Can't find your answer?