With a dynamic economy, excellent quality of life, and friendly immigration policies, Canada remains a dream destination for many seeking a fresh start. However, under the 2025–2027 Canada Immigration Levels Plan, the targets for welcoming new permanent residents have been significantly reduced compared to previous plans: 395,000 in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027.
Despite these changes, there are still four popular and relatively accessible pathways to immigrate to Canada: Skilled Worker, Family Sponsorship, Study, and Business/Investment. Each stream comes with its own set of eligibility criteria, costs, and procedures.
In the following article, Phan Immigration will provide a detailed breakdown of each immigration stream to help you and your family choose the most suitable and efficient pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
Skilled Worker Immigration Programs
The Skilled Worker immigration stream is an excellent option for individuals with skills and experience who are seeking career development opportunities and long-term settlement in Canada. This stream includes several programs:
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a collaborative initiative between the federal government and the four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador). Its goal is to attract skilled foreign workers and international graduates from Canadian institutions who wish to live and work in the region.
Eligible Applicants:
- Skilled foreign workers with relevant work experience.
- International graduates from a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution.
Program Objective:
- Address labor shortages and boost the regional economy by attracting immigrants with suitable skills and work experience.
Eligibility Requirements:
- For skilled workers:
- At least 1,560 hours of work experience (equivalent to 1 year of full-time work at 30 hours/week) within the past 5 years.
- Work experience must fall under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.
- For international graduates:
- A diploma, degree, or certificate requiring at least 2 years of full-time study from a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the Atlantic provinces.
- Must have lived in one of the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months in the 2 years before graduation.
- Must hold a valid visa or permit for study, work, or training in Canada.
- Education requirements:
- TEER 0 or 1 job offer: Minimum of 1 year post-secondary education in Canada.
- TEER 2, 3, or 4 job offer: Minimum of a Canadian high school diploma.
- Language requirements:
- CLB/NCLC 5 for jobs under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
- CLB/NCLC 4 for jobs under TEER 4.
Proof of funds:
- Must show sufficient settlement funds unless already living and working in Canada with a valid work permit.
Processing Time:
- Approximately 9 months.
Benefits:
- Family members can accompany you from Vietnam.
- Freedom to live and work in Atlantic provinces and other Canadian provinces after becoming a permanent resident.
- Access to healthcare, education, and social benefits similar to Canadian citizens.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate eligible individuals for immigration based on their economic and labor market needs. Each province has its own PNP stream with unique criteria and requirements.
Eligible Applicants:
- Skilled workers with relevant work experience in in-demand occupations.
- Entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand a business.
- International graduates from local post-secondary institutions.
Immigrate to Canada through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Program Objective:
- Help provinces meet their specific economic and workforce needs by selecting skilled immigrants.
Eligibility Requirements: (These vary by province but typically include:)
- Work experience in an in-demand occupation.
- Minimum language proficiency (English or French).
- Education level meeting provincial standards.
- Demonstrated intent to settle in the nominating province or territory.
- Connection to the province (e.g., job offer, family ties).
- Good health and clean criminal record.
Processing Time:
- Varies by province, usually 6 to 12 months.
Benefits:
- A provincial nomination grants an additional 600 points in the Express Entry CRS, significantly increasing the chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Often faster processing compared to other immigration streams.
- Wide range of PNP options across provinces offers flexibility and better chances for eligible applicants.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Federal Skilled Worker Immigration Program – Express Entry
Express Entry is an online application management system used by the Canadian government to process permanent residency applications under three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) và Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Eligible Applicants:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled tradespeople in technical or manual occupations.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For skilled workers with work experience in Canada.
Program Objective:
- To select candidates with the strongest skills and work experience to meet Canada’s labor market needs.
Eligibility Requirements:
The table below outlines the key criteria that applicants must meet for each immigration stream:
Comparison of Eligibility Criteria: CEC vs. FSWP vs. FSTP
| Criteria | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) |
| Language | English or French: Minimum CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs; CLB 5 for NOC B jobs | English or French: Minimum CLB 7 | English or French: CLB 5 for speaking and listening; CLB 4 for reading and writing |
| NOC Classification & Work Experience | Canadian work experience in occupations under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 | Work experience in Canada or abroad under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 | Work experience in a skilled trade under major groups in TEER 2 or 3, in Canada or abroad |
| Total Work Experience | Minimum 1 year of Canadian work experience (full-time or equivalent part-time) within the past 3 years | Minimum 1 year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work in a primary occupation within the last 10 years | Minimum 2 years of full-time or equivalent part-time work in a skilled trade within the past 5 years |
| Job Offer | Not required | Not required, but a valid job offer adds points under the FSW system | Required: Either a valid full-time job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial authority |
| Education | No education requirement | Minimum: High school diploma. Post-secondary education earns additional points | No education requirement |
Processing Time (Express Entry): Approximately 6 months.
Benefits:
- Freedom to live in any province or territory in Canada.
- Fast processing time — average of 6 months for permanent residence (PR) applications.
- Can apply for PR directly from Vietnam.
- Permanent residence granted for the whole family.
- Free education for children and access to healthcare and social benefits for the entire family.
Drawbacks:
- High competition due to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scoring.
- Strong English or French proficiency is required.
Federal Skilled Worker Immigration to Canada – Express Entry
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is a separate immigration program run by the province of Quebec. It allows Quebec to select immigrants who have the skills and work experience that match its labor market needs.
Eligible Applicants:
- Skilled workers with experience in in-demand occupations in Quebec.
- French language proficiency is mandatory for all applicants.
Program Objective:
- To attract skilled workers to contribute to the economic development of Quebec.
Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must score enough points on Quebec’s selection grid, based on the following factors:
- Age
- Education level
- Work experience
- French language proficiency
- Connection to Quebec (family, job offer, settlement plans)
- Spouse’s qualifications
- Dependent children
- Financial self-sufficiency
- Must demonstrate the intent to live in Quebec.
Processing Time:
- Varies depending on intake periods and application volume.
Benefits:
- Receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which increases chances of being approved for federal PR.
- Opportunity to live and work in a unique French-speaking environment.
Drawbacks:
- French language proficiency is mandatory.
- Must reside in Quebec after immigration.
- Separate processing system from the rest of Canada.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
Business Immigration to Canada
The Business Immigration stream is ideal for experienced entrepreneurs and investors with financial resources who want to establish or expand a business and settle in Canada long-term.
Start-up Visa Program (SUV)
The Start-up Visa Program (SUV) is a federal program that allows innovative foreign entrepreneurs to establish businesses in Canada and obtain permanent residency.
Eligible Applicants:
- Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea that is competitive on a global scale.
- Start-up teams (up to 5 people) with a shared business concept.
Program Objective:
- To attract talented entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that can generate jobs and stimulate Canada’s economy.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must own a qualifying business:
- The applicant holds at least 10% ownership (for start-up teams, max. 5 members).
- Combined ownership by applicant and designated organization must exceed 50%.
- The business must be incorporated in Canada and actively managed from within Canada.
- Must receive a Letter of Support from a designated organization.
- Meet minimum language requirement: CLB 5 in English or French.
- Have sufficient settlement funds (based on family size, cannot be borrowed).
Processing Time:
- Up to 40 months.
Benefits:
- Dual citizenship allowed.
- PR for the entire family.
- Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.
- Access to healthcare, education, and social services like Canadian citizens.
- Free public education for children from kindergarten to high school, with subsidized tuition for post-secondary.
Drawbacks:
- Business idea must be genuinely innovative and accepted by a designated organization.
- Finding a designated organization can be time-consuming and competitive.
- No mandatory investment amount, but financial stability must be demonstrated.
Business Immigration to Canada – Start-up Visa Program (SUV)
Provincial Entrepreneur PNP Programs
These programs fall under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and are designed for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to start or invest in a business in a specific province. Each province has its own entrepreneur stream with unique criteria.
Eligible Applicants:
- Entrepreneurs with business management or ownership experience.
- Investors with sufficient capital.
- Business owners seeking to expand into Canada.
Program Objective:
- To attract investment and entrepreneurial expertise to boost the local economy and create jobs.
Eligibility Requirements: (varies by province but typically includes)
- Proven experience in managing or owning a business.
- A feasible and beneficial business plan for the province.
- Minimum investment in a business (amount varies by province).
- Proof of sufficient financial resources.
Processing Time:
- Varies by province and stream, ranging from several months to a few years.
Benefits:
- Provincial nomination increases the chance of obtaining Canadian PR.
- Opportunity to grow a business in a strong and stable economy.
Drawbacks:
- Required to live and operate the business in the nominating province for a specified period.
- Investment thresholds can be relatively high.
- Requirements and processes differ significantly between provinces.
Immigrate to Canada through the Provincial Entrepreneur PNP Program
Family Sponsorship Immigration to Canada
The Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents (PR) to sponsor their family members (spouses, children, parents, or grandparents) to live in Canada and become permanent residents. This is one of the fastest immigration pathways and a fundamental right for official citizens.
Eligible Applicants:
- Sponsors: Canadian citizens or permanent residents currently living in Canada with sufficient financial means to support the sponsored individual.
- Sponsored individuals: Spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and in special cases, other relatives like adopted children or orphaned siblings/nieces/nephews.
Program Objective:
- To help families reunite and build a stable life together in Canada.
Requirements:
For Sponsors:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be living in Canada.
- Must show financial capability to support the sponsored family member for 3 years.
For Sponsored Individuals:
- Spouse or common-law partner: Must provide a marriage certificate or evidence of cohabitation for at least 1 year. The relationship must be genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.
- Dependent children: Must be under 22 years old and unmarried. Exceptions exist for children over 22 who depend on parents due to a health condition.
- Parents and grandparents: Selected through a lottery system or waitlist under the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP).
- Other relatives: In special cases like adoption or orphaned siblings/relatives.
Processing Time:
- Typically 15 to 24 months, depending on the case and application backlog.
Benefits:
- Permanent residents can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.
- Access to healthcare, education, and social benefits similar to Canadian citizens.
- Eligible for Canadian citizenship after a certain residency period and meeting conditions.
Drawbacks:
- Sponsors must demonstrate the financial ability to fully support the sponsored individuals.
- Processing time can be long, potentially delaying family reunification.
- High competition due to annual application limits.
- Requires extensive documentation to prove familial relationships.
Immigrate to Canada through the Family Sponsorship Program
Phan Immigration – Trusted Canadian Immigration Consulting
Phan Immigration is a licensed immigration consulting firm authorized by the Government of Canada, specializing in safe, efficient, and personalized immigration solutions connecting Vietnam and Canada. Beyond helping clients achieve their immigration dreams, we support them in settling, launching careers, and building solid foundations for life in Canada.
What Makes Phan Immigration Stand Out:
- Experienced Experts: Over 15 years in the Canadian immigration industry. Our team is licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) and committed to professional, dedicated service.
- Personalized Services: From temporary visas to permanent residency, we tailor our consulting to each client’s goals and background.
- Extensive Partner Network: We collaborate with Canadian immigration lawyers, financial advisors, and local businesses to ensure clients integrate smoothly into Canadian society.
- Transparency & Accountability: We are committed to clear communication and responsible service at every stage of your application.
Our Immigration Services:
- Business Immigration: Start-up Visa (SUV), Provincial Investment Programs (Alberta, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, PEI…), ICT, C11, T50.
- Skilled Worker Programs: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
- Study Pathways: Legal support for Express Entry, PNP, LMIA, Open Work Permit, and Spousal Sponsorship.
At Phan Immigration, we strive to provide the best service and support our clients in successfully immigrating to Canada. If you have any questions about Canadian immigration programs, don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized guidance.
Canadian Immigration Consulting with Phan Immigration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Immigration to Canada
How much does it cost to immigrate to Canada?
The cost typically ranges from CAD 15,000 to 30,000 per person, or CAD 50,000 to 70,000 for a family of four. This includes application processing fees and the minimum funds required to support yourself in Canada.
How can I apply for permanent residency without a job offer?
You can apply through programs that do not require a job offer, such as:
- Express Entry
- Family Sponsorship
- Provincial Nominee Program (certain streams)
How long does it take to immigrate to Canada?
It depends on the program and your personal situation. Here are average processing times:
- Express Entry: ~6 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
- ~6 months for Express Entry-linked streams
- ~13 months for non-Express Entry streams
- Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW): ~11 months
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): ~6 months
- Start-up Visa (SUV): ~12–16 months
- Family Sponsorship:
- ~15 months for outland spouses/partners (excluding Quebec)
- ~24 months for other family members
Is it easier to immigrate as a single person or with family?
It’s not about which is “easier” — it depends on the program and whether you meet the criteria.
If you’re immigrating with family, ensure the program allows dependents and that you can prove your relationship and financial readiness.
Canada welcomes immigrants committed to contributing to its society — either solo or as a family unit.
