The best way to immigrate to Canada isn’t one-size-fits-all. You’ve heard the hype—high salaries, free healthcare, and a better quality of life. But the process? That’s where people get stuck.
Take Daniel, an engineer from Brazil. He spent two years applying through Express Entry with no success. Then he discovered a provincial program that boosted his points overnight. Within six months, he had his permanent residency.
If you’re serious about moving to Canada, you need a strategy. Here are the five best ways to immigrate to Canada in 2024—and how to pick the one that works for you.
1. Express Entry (Best for Skilled Workers)
Canada’s Express Entry system is the fastest route for professionals. It uses a points-based ranking system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to select candidates. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Who Qualifies?
✔️ Skilled workers with 1+ year of experience
✔️ High IELTS/TEF scores (CLB 7 or higher)
✔️ Post-secondary education (degree, diploma, or certification)
How to Apply
- Create an Express Entry Profile
- Enter the pool of candidates
- Get invited if your CRS score is high enough
- Submit final documents and wait for approval
✅ Processing time: 6 months or less
Pro Tip: Improve your CRS score with a higher IELTS score or a provincial nomination (worth 600 points).
2. Provincial Nominee Program (Best for Lower CRS Scores)
Express Entry is competitive. But Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) give you another way in—even with a lower CRS score.
Each Canadian province has its own immigration streams. If a province nominates you, you get 600 extra points, practically guaranteeing your PR approval.
Who Qualifies?
✔️ Skilled workers in in-demand occupations
✔️ Applicants with job offers in a specific province
✔️ Entrepreneurs willing to invest in a local business
How to Apply
- Apply directly to a province (or through Express Entry)
- Receive a nomination (worth 600 CRS points)
- Submit your PR application
✅ Processing time: 6–12 months
Pro Tip: Provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia regularly invite candidates—even with CRS scores under 400.
3. Study in Canada (Best for International Students)
Want to move to Canada with a near-guaranteed PR pathway? Studying in Canada is one of the best options.
After graduation, students can apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), gain Canadian work experience, and qualify for PR through Express Entry or PNPs.
Who Qualifies?
✔️ Students accepted into Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
✔️ Applicants with enough funds to pay for tuition and living costs
How to Apply
- Get accepted into a Canadian university or college
- Apply for a Study Permit
- Complete your studies and apply for a PGWP
- Gain Canadian work experience and apply for PR
✅ Processing time: 3–6 months (study permit)
Pro Tip: Studying in provinces like Ontario or British Columbia gives you direct PR pathways after graduation.
4. Work in Canada (Best for Those With Job Offers)
A job offer from a Canadian employer can make your immigration process much easier. The key? Finding an employer willing to sponsor you under a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Who Qualifies?
✔️ Skilled workers with job offers from a Canadian company
✔️ Candidates in high-demand occupations like IT, healthcare, and engineering
How to Apply
- Find a Canadian employer willing to sponsor you
- Apply for a work permit (LMIA-approved job required)
- Gain work experience and apply for PR through Express Entry or PNPs
✅ Processing time: 4–6 months (work permit)
Pro Tip: Some jobs are LMIA-exempt, meaning employers can hire you faster. Look for positions under Global Talent Stream (tech jobs) or NAFTA/CUSMA agreements.
5. Family Sponsorship (Best for Those With Relatives in Canada)
If you have family in Canada, this could be your fastest way in. Canada allows permanent residents and citizens to sponsor their close family members for PR.
Who Qualifies?
✔️ Spouses, children, parents, or grandparents of Canadian residents
✔️ Applicants whose sponsors can financially support them
How to Apply
- Your family member submits a sponsorship application
- You apply for PR as a sponsored relative
- Wait for approval and move to Canada
✅ Processing time: 12 months
Pro Tip: Spousal sponsorship applications are usually processed faster if you apply from inside Canada.
Which Is the Best Way to Immigrate to Canada for You?
Choosing the best way to immigrate to Canada depends on your situation.
- Skilled worker? Express Entry is your best bet.
- Low CRS score? Try a Provincial Nominee Program.
- Want a long-term PR pathway? Study in Canada.
- Have a job offer? A work permit can get you in fast.
- Have family in Canada? Sponsorship is the easiest route.
If you’re serious about moving, don’t wait. Immigration rules change fast. The earlier you start, the better your chances.
Ready to take the first step? Check which program fits your profile and start your journey today.