Can I apply for permanent residency while working in Canada temporarily?

I am currently working in Canada on a temporary work permit that has about two years remaining before it expires. I’m in the skilled worker category and have been considering applying for permanent residency. However, I’m unsure if I need to wait until my temporary work permit is close to expiring or if I can apply while it’s still valid. I’ve heard about the Canadian Experience Class and am wondering if my time working in Canada under this temporary permit can count towards eligibility. Also, I want to make sure that if I apply now, I won’t have any issues with my current work status or risk losing my job while the application is being processed. Can I apply for permanent residency while working in Canada temporarily under these circumstances?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while working in Canada temporarily. Canada offers several immigration pathways specifically designed for temporary workers who wish to transition to permanent residency:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have at least one year of skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) in Canada within the three years before applying, you may be eligible through this Express Entry stream.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Many provinces have streams for temporary workers, such as:
   • Alberta Opportunity Stream
   • British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) Skills Immigration
   • Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities
   • Manitoba’s Skilled Worker in Manitoba
3. Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP): For workers interested in living in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador).
4. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): If you have a valid job offer and work in one of the participating smaller communities.
5. Caregiver Pathways: Special pilots for home child care providers and home support workers with at least 12 months of Canadian work experience.
6. Agri-Food Pilot: For non-seasonal agri-food workers with valid job offers.

Key requirements include maintaining valid temporary status in Canada while your application is processed, having legal work authorization through a valid work permit or other authorization, and meeting eligibility criteria specific to your chosen pathway, including language proficiency, education credentials, and work experience verification.

Processing times vary by program, but if you have submitted an application through Express Entry, it typically takes 6 months to process if you’re already in Canada.