Canada offers two main routes to permanent residency for skilled workers: the federal Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Choosing the right one depends entirely on your profile.

Express Entry works on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Your age, education, work experience and English scores generate a score, and regular draws invite the highest-ranked candidates. It is fast - most applications are processed in about 6 months - but competitive.

PNPs let individual provinces nominate candidates who match their local labour needs. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, which practically guarantees an invitation. The trade-off: longer overall timelines and provincial commitment requirements.

Rule of thumb:
- CRS above the recent draw cut-offs? Go directly through Express Entry.
- CRS below the cut-offs but with an in-demand occupation? Target PNP streams.
- Strong French, a Canadian job offer, or Canadian study history? These can transform your score.

Every profile is different. Send us your CV for a free points assessment and we will map your realistic route to Canadian PR.