December 10, 2025
Immigration Expert Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC-IRB Explains: What ‘Landed Immigrant’ Status Means in Canada Today
Landed Immigrant Status in Canada: What It Really Means and How to Achieve It
By Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC-IRB — Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd. (Calgary, Alberta)
Understanding “Landed Immigrant” Status in Canada
If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada or exploring your pathway to permanent residency, you may have heard the term “landed immigrant.” While this phrase was once widely used, it has now been replaced by the official term “Permanent Resident (PR).”
A Permanent Resident is someone who has the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada but is not yet a Canadian citizen. PRs enjoy many of the same rights as citizens while retaining their original citizenship.
At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we guide individuals and families through every step of the PR process — from eligibility assessments to application submission and beyond.
The Evolution of the Term ‘Landed Immigrant’
Until 2002, the Canadian government officially used “landed immigrant.” It was later replaced with “permanent resident” to better reflect Canada’s modern immigration framework.
You may still hear both terms used interchangeably, especially in older documents or among newcomers. Regardless of terminology, achieving PR status is a major milestone in your Canadian journey.
Rights and Benefits of Permanent Residents in Canada
PRs enjoy numerous rights and benefits, including:
- Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
- Access to public healthcare and most social services
- Eligibility to apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
- Ability to sponsor eligible family members
- Legal protection under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Limitations: PRs cannot vote, run for political office, or hold positions requiring high-level security clearance.
Maintaining Your PR Status: Residency Obligations
PRs must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within every 5-year period to maintain status.
If your PR card expires, your status does not automatically lapse — but a valid card is required for travel. PRs traveling abroad must carry either a PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.
At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we ensure clients maintain their PR status and renew their PR cards efficiently.
Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Landscape
Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan introduces new priorities:
- Permanent resident targets will decrease by over 100,000 admissions in 2025 compared to previous years
- More than 40% of new PRs will come from individuals already in Canada
- Temporary resident numbers will be managed more closely, aiming to reduce them to 5% of the total population by 2026
This means early preparation and error-free applications are critical.
Top Pathways to Permanent Residence in Canada
Depending on your background, several pathways can lead to PR:
1. Economic Immigration Programs
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Quebec-selected skilled workers
2. Family Sponsorship Programs
- Spouses, partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents
3. Refugee and Humanitarian Programs
- For individuals in need of protection or resettlement
4. Business and Investor Immigration
- Entrepreneurs and investors contributing to Canada’s economy
At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we assess your profile and recommend the best PR pathway based on experience, education, and long-term goals.
From Permanent Residency to Canadian Citizenship
Many PRs eventually pursue citizenship. Eligibility criteria include:
- Physically present in Canada for 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years
- Proficiency in English or French
- Passing the Canadian citizenship test
- Meeting other IRCC requirements
We provide full support to help you transition smoothly from PR to citizenship.
Documents and Responsibilities for PRs
Your PR card is your proof of status and is essential for travel. Lost or expired cards must be renewed promptly. Our team ensures renewals or replacements are handled efficiently and correctly.
Why Work With a Licensed Immigration Consultant (RCIC)?
Canadian immigration law is complex and constantly evolving. A licensed RCIC like Harminder Singh Saini is authorized to represent clients before IRCC and the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we offer:
- Transparent, ethical immigration advice
- Personalized PR strategies
- Application reviews to prevent errors or refusals
- Ongoing guidance from study permits to PR and citizenship
Conclusion: Your Canadian PR Journey Starts Here
Becoming a Permanent Resident of Canada — formerly called a landed immigrant — is more than a status; it’s your ticket to a secure, fulfilling future.
Whether you’re applying for PR, renewing your card, or planning your move from temporary to permanent status, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd.
Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC-IRB — Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Calgary, Alberta, Canada (serving clients worldwide)
Instagram: @myworldimmigration
MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd. — Your trusted partner for study permits, PR, and Canadian immigration success.