Canada PR Application While on USA L1B Visa

Yes, it is possible to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada while working in the USA on an L1B visa. Here are the steps and key considerations to keep in mind:

Steps to Apply for Permanent Residency in Canada

1. Determine Eligibility:

o Review the different pathways to Canadian permanent residency to determine which one you are eligible for. Common pathways include:

 Express Entry: For skilled workers.

 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): For individuals nominated by a Canadian province or territory.

 Family Sponsorship: For individuals with a close family member who is a Canadian citizen or PR.

 Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with skilled work experience in Canada.

 Start-Up Visa: For entrepreneurs with a business idea supported by a designated organization in Canada.

2. Express Entry System:

o Create an Express Entry Profile: If you are applying through the Express Entry system, create an online profile and enter your details, including work experience, education, language proficiency, and other relevant information.

o Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Your profile will be ranked based on the CRS, which assigns points for various factors.

o Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your CRS score is high enough, you will receive an ITA to apply for PR.

3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):

o Apply to a Province: If you choose to apply through the PNP, you will need to apply to a specific province or territory that has a PNP stream suited to your qualifications.

o Obtain a Nomination: If the province or territory nominates you, you can then apply for PR through the Express Entry system or directly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

4. Gather Required Documents:

o Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Obtain an ECA for any foreign educational credentials.

o Language Proficiency Test: Take an approved language test (IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French) and achieve the required scores.

o Work Experience Proof: Gather letters from employers and other documentation proving your work experience.

o Medical and Police Clearance: Complete a medical examination and obtain police clearance certificates.

5. Submit PR Application:

o Once you receive an ITA or provincial nomination, submit your complete PR application to IRCC, including all required documents and fees.

6. Wait for Processing:

o Processing times for PR applications vary depending on the program and other factors. Check the current processing times on the IRCC website.

Key Considerations

• Maintaining L1B Status:

o Ensure you maintain your legal status in the USA while applying for Canadian PR. Comply with all requirements and conditions of your L1B visa.

o Understand that applying for Canadian PR does not affect your L1B status in the USA.

• Dual Intent:

o Canadian immigration law permits dual intent, meaning you can intend to live in Canada permanently while temporarily residing in another country.

• Consult with Experts:

o Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or consultant who specializes in Canadian immigration to ensure your application is properly prepared and submitted.

Summary

It is entirely possible to apply for Canadian permanent residency while working in the USA on an L1B visa. By choosing the appropriate pathway, gathering the necessary documents, and maintaining your legal status in the USA, you can navigate both immigration processes successfully.