Tourist to PR in Canada: Steps to Follow

If you're in Canada on a tourist visa and you want to apply for Permanent Residency (PR), there are a few important steps to consider. Here's what you could do:

1. Determine Your Eligibility for PR: Canada has various immigration pathways for PR, including:

o Express Entry (for skilled workers)

o Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (for individuals nominated by a province)

o Family Sponsorship (if you have a Canadian citizen or permanent resident family member)

o Study Permit Pathway (if you plan to study in Canada and then transition to PR)

o Work Permit Pathway (if you find a job and apply for a work permit)

2. Apply for a Work Permit or Study Permit: You can't directly apply for PR while on a tourist visa. However, you might be eligible to apply for a work or study permit from within Canada (in some cases). If you're able to find a job, you could apply for a work permit, or if you're eligible, you could apply for a study permit and then transition to a PR pathway after completing your studies.

3. Express Entry or Other Immigration Programs: After you find a job or study in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for PR through Express Entry or another immigration program. Express Entry is a popular pathway for skilled workers, and it involves submitting a profile into a pool where you can be invited to apply for PR based on factors like age, education, and work experience.

4. Change of Status: If you're on a tourist visa, you cannot directly apply for PR. You would need to change your status (for example, to a work permit holder or a student) before you can start the PR application process.

5. Consult with an Immigration Consultant/ Lawyer: Immigration laws can be complex, so it's a good idea to speak with an immigration lawyer or consultant who can guide you on the best path based on your specific circumstances.

Remember that while in Canada on a tourist visa, you are expected to leave once your visa expires unless you apply for an extension or change your status legally. It’s important to follow the visa rules and not overstay.