The federal government makes the final decision on all immigration applications and issues permanent residence visas; however, some provincial governments have programs wherein they can nominate an applicant for permanent residence regardless of whether that person could apply directly to the federal government.
FAMILY
Qualifying Canadian citizens and permanent residents may sponsor the permanent residence application of spouses, partners, or children. There is a moratorium on sponsoring parents and grandparents. In some provinces or in exceptional circumstances, they may be permitted to sponsor or similarly assist other relatives (siblings, cousins, aunt, uncles, nephews and nieces).
SKILLED WORKERS
Skilled workers who have arranged employment or are on the list of qualifying occupations, may apply for permanent residence. Some provinces will nominate skilled workers who have offers of employment in the respective province, and also support the applicants’ requests for permits to work while awaiting permanent residence.
CANADIAN EXPERIENCE CLASS
Student Stream
You may apply if you have obtained 1) a Canadian educational credential after completing at least two years of a qualifying Canadian educational program, 2) one year of skilled work experience in Canada in the last two years, and 3) a qualifying score on the International English Language Testing System (”IELTS”) exam.
Worker Stream
You may apply if you have obtained 1) two years of skilled work experience in Canada in the last three years, and 3) a qualifying score on the International English Language Testing System (”IELTS”) exam.
BUSINESS PERSONS
Business persons who can prove the requisite management experience and net worth may apply as Investors, Entrepreneurs, and Self-employed. The federal and provincial requirements for entrepreneurs differ considerably. For the July 2011 to June 2012 year, the federal Investor class has reached its cap and the Entrepreneur class is suspended. The cap and moratorium do not apply to provincial programs.
HUMANITARIAN & COMPASSIONATE CLASS
It is possible to request permanent residence for applicants who do not meet the requirements of IRPA, by assessing the humanitarian and compassionate considerations and the best interests of the child, if applicable. These cases require a close examination of potential effects of an approval or denial of permanent residence on the foreign national applicant and dependents, as well as Canadian relatives and society.