Permanent Residence
Immigrating to Canada – Applying for Permanent Residence
Canada welcomes thousands of newcomers each year. Foreign nationals interested in moving to Canada may apply for permanent residence. Permanent resident status carries the right to live, work, and study in Canada on a permanent basis, and can only be taken away in limited circumstances. To obtain permanent resident status, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and follow specific procedures.
The process of applying for permanent residence is complex and ever-changing. The incomplete and often contradictory information available on the Internet can leave potential applicants feeling confused and overwhelmed. Applicants who attempt the application process without proper guidance risk refusal and may even lose their opportunity to immigrate to Canada. For example, a finding of misrepresentation, even if unintentional, may bar a person from entering Canada for five years. Because the law in this area is intricate and constantly evolving, an increasing number of applicants recognize the importance of retaining a skilled lawyer to assist them in navigating the process.
At Sherritt Greene, immigration law is all we do. With over six decades of combined experience, we have the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure that your application is prepared, filed, and handled in a manner that maximizes your chances of success. Through our work, we have acquired a reputation as consummate advocates who value substance over style.
Employment-Based Applications
Foreign nationals may apply for permanent resident status under various employment-based programs including the Federal Skilled Worker/Trades Class (FSW and FST), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and the Caregiver Program. These programs have different eligibility criteria based on various factors, including the applicant’s work experience, a job offer from a Canadian employer, education and language ability. Our lawyers can identify the best program for you and guide you throughout the application process.
Family Sponsorship Applications
Family connections may provide another path to permanent residence. Canadian citizens and permanent residents have the right to sponsor certain family members to immigrate to Canada. However, the right to sponsor is not absolute. An individual can be barred from sponsoring family members for financial reasons, criminality, or the sponsor’s own immigration history.
Also, due to the prevalence of immigration fraud, the burden is on applicants and sponsors to prove that relationships are “genuine” and were not formed simply for immigration purposes. Failure to provide proper documentary evidence of the relationship can result in refusal, leaving family members separated for years and, in some cases, permanently. Many clients come to us after receiving such a heart-breaking refusal. Backed by six decades of combined experience, we know how to assist you in preparing a strong application and avoid pitfalls.
Humanitarian and Compassionate Applications
Foreign nationals who do not meet the eligibility requirements to immigrate to Canada may be granted permanent residence on humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) grounds. To grant permanent residence on these grounds, an immigration officer must believe that refusing the application would result in “unusual, undeserved or disproportionate hardship.” Sherritt Greene’s lawyers are highly skilled advocates who excel at presenting clients’ cases.
How an Experienced Immigration Lawyer Can Help
The path to permanent residence requires detailed knowledge of the applicable laws and policies, attention to detail, thorough record-keeping, and perseverance. Even a small mistake can jeopardize an applicant’s ability to remain in Canada.
Sherritt Greene is widely recognized as one of Canada’s leading immigration law firms. We serve clients throughout Canada and around the world. With more than 60 years of combined experience in the field of immigration law, we understand the nuances of the immigration system and have a proven track record of assisting clients in achieving their immigration goals.
Contact Us
Call Sherritt Greene today at (403) 237-0202 for a consultation regarding your immigration matter.