Country guide
Migrate to Canada
Canada plans to welcome 380,000 new permanent residents a year. Most skilled workers get in through Express Entry or a provincial nomination.
380,000
New permanent residents a year (2026-2028 plan)
Why Canada?
- A clear points system: check your score before you apply
- Free public healthcare for permanent residents
- Citizenship after 3 years as a permanent resident
- Over 23% of people were born abroad
- Free public schools for your children
- Bring your partner and children with you
Key facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Population | 40.5 million (2025) |
| Official languages | English, French |
| Currency | Canadian dollar (CAD) |
| Federal minimum wage | CAD $18.15 / hour (from April 2026) |
| Healthcare | Universal public (Medicare) |
| Main routes | Express Entry, PNP, LMIA work permits |
Visa routes
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)
Points-based. You are ranked by CRS score: age, education, language and work experience. Processing takes about 6 months.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each province picks workers to fill its own shortages. A nomination adds 600 CRS points, which all but guarantees an invitation.
Employer-sponsored work permit (LMIA)
An employer who can't find a local worker gets a Labour Market Impact Assessment and hires you. Common in healthcare, construction and tech.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Employer-led route for skilled workers and graduates in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, or Newfoundland and Labrador.
Cost of living
Typical monthly costs in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary.
| Expense | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| 1-bed rent (city centre) | CAD $1,800 to $2,500 / month |
| Groceries (one person) | CAD $350 to $500 / month |
| Public transport pass | CAD $100 to $160 / month |
| Internet (60 Mbps+) | CAD $60 to $90 / month |
| Utilities (power, heat, water) | CAD $150 to $250 / month |
Jobs in demand
- Registered nurses & healthcare aides
- Software engineers & DevOps
- Truck drivers (long-haul & local)
- Electricians, plumbers & welders
- Mechanical & civil engineers
- Pharmacists & physiotherapists
- Financial analysts & accountants
- Early childhood educators
FAQs
How long does Express Entry take?
About 6 months from the day you submit. Allow 2-4 months before that for a language test (IELTS/CELPIP) and a credential check (ECA).
What CRS score do I need for an invitation?
It changes with every draw. In 2025, general draws ranged from 480 to 530. Category draws for healthcare, STEM, trades, transport and agriculture often sit lower, around 430-480.
Can I bring my family to Canada?
Yes. Express Entry and most PNP streams let you include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. They can get open work permits or study permits.
Do I need a job offer to move to Canada?
Not for Express Entry. Since March 25, 2025, a job offer no longer adds CRS points. Many PNP streams and all LMIA work permits need an employer.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change often. Always confirm the current requirements on the official government website for your destination. How we research & source our guides.
What is changing in Canada, and when
- New route
Work permit holders can study up to 6 months without a study permit
If you hold a valid work permit you can take a course of 6 months or less (until your permit expires) without applying for a study permit. Source (IRCC)
Could Canada work for you?
Most refusals come from the wrong route or a weak document. Check yours before you spend.
Free eligibility check →
2 minutes. Results on screen, no sign-up.
Talk it through with a person →
60-minute plan check. $99 to book, $499 in total.
Already there? Read the arrival guide for Canada →
