Most people think the job is done once their immigration application has been approved. However, the approval of your permanent residence application is not enough. There are a few things you need to take care of to ensure that your future in Canada is secure.
What Do You Have to Do After Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident?
Ensure that you have “Landed” as a Permanent Resident
Landing as a permanent resident is exactly as it sounds. You have to enter Canada as a permanent resident. Once your application is approved and you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), you have to enter or re-enter Canada as a permanent resident before your COPR expires. There are different ways of doing this.
If you were abroad when your application was approved, then you will become a landed permanent resident on your first Port of Entry. This process will take approximately 3 hours and it has to be done at your first port of entry in Canada. If you are residing in Canada when your application was approved, then you can make a permanent resident landing interview appointment at your nearest Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) office. You can also do this by re-entering Canada after flying or driving to a land border with the United States.
You can call the IRCC Call Center to book an appointment, except if your temporary residence status is set to expire soon. You will provide your mailing address during this interview so that the IRCC can mail your PR card. This PR card will not be mailed to your address outside of Canada.
Reside in Canada
All permanent residents have a residency requirement to maintain their status in Canada. You will be required to reside in Canada for at least 2 years out of every 5 years. It does not have to be a continuous residency, so you can travel abroad regularly. However, you can not spend more than 3 years outside of Canada.
It is always helpful to have a record of your travel history. You can also maintain proof to demonstrate that you spent time in Canada. This will help you demonstrate that you have met your residency requirements to renew your PR card or apply for Canadian citizenship.
Know the Requirements of Your Immigration Program
Based on your immigration program and the number of family members accompanying you, you are required to demonstrate a certain level of settlement funds. You will be required to demonstrate a certain level of funds during your landing appointment. Recently, the IRCC updated the settlement fund requirements for Express Entry candidates. In case you applied last year and will be entering Canada this year, you will need to check the updated requirements to ensure compliance.
If you obtained permanent residence through provincial nomination, then you will be expected to reside in the province that nominated you. If you are not traveling directly to that province, you will probably be asked questions by the immigration officials.
