Can I apply for an open work permit after my PGWP expires?

Yes, in certain cases you can apply for an open work permit after your PGWP expires, such as through a Spousal Open Work Permit or if you qualify under a temporary IRCC public policy. You must restore your status within 90 days of PGWP expiry to remain in Canada legally.

How to get Canada visa refusal notes?

For temporary resident applications (Visitor, Study, Work Permits), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now often includes the 'Officer Decision Notes' automatically with the refusal letter. For the complete internal file, you must submit an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request for your GCMS notes, which can be done by a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident, or a representative on your behalf.

What is the processing time for temporary resident visa in Canada?

Processing time varies depending on where you apply. For a Visitor Visa (TRV) applied from inside Canada, a recent benchmark is around 16 days (as of October 20, 2025). This is an estimate and actual times may be longer if your case is complex.

How long can you stay in Canada on a temporary resident visa?

Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months per entry unless an immigration officer indicates a different length of stay on the entry stamp or visitor record. Multiple-entry TRVs may be valid for up to 10 years or until passport expiry.

Can parents apply for H&C in Canada?

Yes. Parents in Canada without valid status or ineligible for sponsorship can apply for permanent residence through an H&C application if removal would cause undue hardship.

How long does it take for an H&C parent application?

Parental H&C applications typically take 30–42 months from submission to final decision, depending on case complexity.

What factors matter in a parent's H&C case?

Officers consider medical needs, emotional dependency on Canadian family, length of stay in Canada, and hardship if returned home.

What is the success rate for H&C parent applications?

As of 2025, parental H&C applications have an average success rate of around 42–45%, slightly higher than general H&C cases.

What documents strengthen a parent's H&C application?

Medical records, proof of family dependency, community letters, country condition reports, and establishment evidence in Canada help strengthen the application.

How to apply for Canada visa for H-1B holders?

The temporary Open Work Permit stream for H-1B principal applicants is closed. However, eligible family members (spouses and dependents) of H-1B holders who successfully applied in 2023 can still apply for their own OWP until September 26, 2024.[4, 5] For a long-term route, H-1B holders should prepare their profiles for the Express Entry system (Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class) and the upcoming Accelerated PR Pathway in 2025.[6, 3]

How long does it take to get H-1B work permit in Canada?

The Open Work Permit (OWP) under the H-1B policy provided temporary status quickly, but that program is closed for new principal applicants. For the ultimate goal, Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) via the Express Entry system generally takes between 5 to 8 months after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), making it one of the fastest permanent residency pathways globally.[7, 8]

Can H-1B holders go to Canada?

Yes. H-1B holders and their families can move to Canada. If they missed the 2023 Open Work Permit deadline, they should pursue permanent immigration pathways like Express Entry or wait for the 2025 Accelerated PR Pathway. The OWP allowed immediate labor market access for both the H-1B holder and their spouse.[2, 3]

What is the 100k fee for H-1B? Who pays 100k for an H-1B visa?

The $100,000 fee was proposed by the U.S. government for certain new H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025, as a condition of eligibility.[9, 10] This fee would be paid by the U.S. employer (petitioner). This measure, which signals high regulatory uncertainty, is a major factor driving skilled workers to Canada.[10]

Can I stamp my H-1B visa in Canada?

Yes, Third-Country Nationals (TCNs)—individuals who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens—can apply for an H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. consulate in Canada. However, TCN processing is discretionary and carries the risk of administrative delays, which could temporarily prevent return to the U.S..[11, 12]

How long is an H-1B visa valid?

The H-1B status is typically granted for an initial period of three years and can be extended for an additional three years, for a total standard duration of six years.[13, 9]

What happens after 6 years of H-1B?

Generally, the holder must leave the U.S. or change status. However, exceptions allow extensions beyond six years in 1-year or 3-year increments if the U.S. employer has initiated the Green Card process (Form I-140 or labor certification) at least 365 days prior to the requested extension start date.[13, 14]

What is the minimum salary for H-1B?

The U.S. employer must pay the H-1B worker a wage that is no less than the 'actual wage' paid to similarly qualified workers, or the 'prevailing wage' for that occupation in the geographic area, whichever amount is higher.[15, 16]

What is the 3 to 1 rule for H-1B visa? / What is the 3 for 1 rule for H-1B?

The '3 to 1' or '3 for 1' reference is related to the H-1B Dependent Employer rule. An employer with 51 or more full-time equivalent employees is considered H-1B dependent if 15% or more of its workforce are H-1B workers. This classification triggers additional regulatory requirements and non-displacement attestations.[17, 18]

Is it better to live in the US or Canada?

The decision is subjective. The U.S. typically offers higher nominal salaries (median U.S. tech wage is higher than Canada's [19]), but Canada offers greater immigration certainty (PR in 5-8 months), universal public healthcare, and better work rights for dependent spouses (immediate Open Work Permit), leading many skilled workers to prioritize Canadian stability over the U.S. salary advantage.[8, 20]

Is Canada rejecting 80% Indian visas? / Is Canada suspending Indian visas?

Canada is not suspending visas, but student visa applications from Indian nationals faced a significant tightening, resulting in a rejection rate of approximately 74% in August 2025.[21, 22] This high scrutiny is tied to fraud concerns and an international student cap.[23, 24] The H-1B Accelerated Pathway, however, is a targeted stream for high-credibility, skilled workers and is not subject to the same generalized scrutiny.

Can Canadians get H-1B visas?

Yes, Canadian citizens are eligible to apply for an H-1B visa like any other nationality. Crucially, Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa stamp requirement entirely; they only need to present their approved I-797 Notice of Action and passport when entering the U.S. in H-1B status.[25, 26]

What is the fastest work permit in Canada?

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is often considered the fastest route, offering 2-week processing for the associated Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The H-1B Open Work Permit (OWP) was also a very fast temporary option for principal applicants, but is currently closed.[1]

Which province gives the fastest PR in Canada?

The fastest route to PR is through any province offering an Enhanced Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream, which is aligned with Express Entry. A nomination through an Enhanced PNP grants an applicant 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR, which is then processed quickly (6-8 months).[7, 8]

Can I get Canada PR in 3 months?

No. While Canada’s Express Entry system is extremely fast, the average processing time for a Permanent Residence application after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) is 5 to 8 months. Starting the process to enter the pool and receive an ITA takes additional time.[7]

How many years of H-1B until green card?

There is no fixed time. The wait for a U.S. Green Card depends on the applicant’s country of chargeability and visa availability, which can result in backlogs that last for years or even decades, despite having H-1B status.[14]

What are the disadvantages of an H-1B visa?

Key disadvantages include the six-year status limit, the required dependence on a single sponsoring employer, the lack of automatic work authorization for spouses (H-4 EAD is separate), the high regulatory costs for the employer, and general policy uncertainty (like the $100k fee proposal).[13, 9, 27]

Who pays for an H-1B visa?

The U.S. employer is responsible for paying most of the required H-1B fees, particularly the mandatory Labor Condition Application (LCA) compliance costs. Employers are prohibited from requiring the employee to pay the fraud prevention and detection fee or the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) fee.[15]

Is a H-1B visa risky?

Yes, in comparison to Canadian Permanent Residence, the H-1B is considered risky. The risk stems from the temporary nature (6-year limit), the cap-restricted annual lottery, dependency on employer sponsorship, and the continuous threat of status expiration if the Green Card process stalls.[13, 9]

Is hiring H-1B cheaper?

No. U.S. law requires the employer to pay the prevailing wage or actual wage (whichever is higher), ensuring H-1B workers are not hired at below-market rates. Furthermore, high compliance costs and the proposed $100k fee for certain petitions make H-1B hiring expensive for U.S. companies.[9, 15]

Is H-1B high skilled?

Yes. The H-1B visa is designated for 'Specialty Occupations,' which are defined as requiring a minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in the specific specialized field. These roles generally cover high-skilled occupations in fields like technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.

Which USA visa is hardest to get?

While many U.S. visas are challenging, the H-1B is notoriously difficult due to the annual cap lottery, which often results in hundreds of thousands of applicants vying for just 85,000 slots, making selection highly competitive and unpredictable.[9, 15]

Who hires the most H-1B visas?

Based on Department of Labor disclosure data, the highest volume of H-1B applications historically comes from large technology and consulting firms.[28] This public disclosure data is available for researchers and the public.[29, 28]

Did Elon Musk have an H-1B?

There is no public record indicating Elon Musk held an H-1B visa. As a South African-born Canadian citizen, he would have been eligible to enter the U.S. using other visa categories, such as the TN professional visa (as a Canadian) or an investment-based visa, before becoming a U.S. citizen.

Which Big 4 sponsor H-1B?

All major 'Big 4' accounting and consulting firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG) sponsor H-1B visas. Due to their global nature and need for specialized talent, these firms are consistently among the top H-1B petitioners documented in U.S. Department of Labor disclosure data.[28]

How to get 100% Canada visa?

There is no method to guarantee 100% approval for any Canadian visa or permanent residence application. The best way to maximize success is by meeting all eligibility requirements, submitting a fully complete application, and clearly demonstrating strong ties to the country if applying for a temporary visa, or high credentials if applying for PR via Express Entry.

Can I get PR after 1 year study in Canada?

Completing a one-year study program in Canada can lead to eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). After gaining one year of skilled work experience in Canada on the PGWP, the individual becomes eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a top PR pathway within Express Entry.[30]

Is it hard to get PR in Canada?

For highly skilled professionals, particularly those moving from H-1B status, securing Canadian PR is considered manageable and predictable. The Express Entry system offers clear, points-based criteria and fast processing times (5-8 months), making it a reliable path compared to the long, uncertain process of obtaining a U.S. Green Card.[7, 8]

What jobs are in demand in Canada?

Canada's immigration strategy, including the upcoming H-1B Accelerated Pathway, explicitly targets labor shortages in several high-demand areas. These include: Technology (AI, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity), Healthcare (Registered Nurses, Physicians), Research, and Advanced Industries.[2, 31]

Can I work in Canada with a temporary resident visa?

No. A temporary resident visa (TRV) alone does not permit work. To work legally you must obtain the appropriate work permit or be otherwise exempt.

What is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an Express Entry immigration stream for individuals with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. It allows temporary workers and graduates to apply for permanent residency faster.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a federal immigration pathway under Express Entry for skilled professionals abroad who have at least one year of continuous work experience in a skilled occupation and meet the eligibility points requirement.

Which program is faster: CEC or FSWP?

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is typically faster, averaging 4–6 months compared to 6–8 months for FSWP, due to simplified documentation and domestic processing.

Do I need proof of funds for CEC?

No, proof of funds is not required for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). It is required only under the Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades programs, unless you have a valid job offer.

Can I apply for both CEC and FSWP?

Yes. You can qualify for more than one program under Express Entry. IRCC will automatically consider you under the stream where you have the best chance of success.

Can I get PR with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Yes, PGWP holders can gain Canadian work experience and apply for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). One year of skilled full-time work experience is required.

What are the benefits of CEC compared to FSWP?

CEC applicants enjoy faster processing, no proof of funds, and generally higher acceptance rates because they already have Canadian work experience and integration.

Can I apply for PR while on a work permit?

Yes, many applicants apply for PR through CEC while working in Canada on an open or employer-specific work permit. This is a common and encouraged pathway.

What documents are required for FSWP proof of funds?

You must provide official bank letters showing account numbers, current and average balances, account opening dates, and 6 months of statements. Only liquid, accessible funds are accepted.

What is the approval rate for CEC in 2025?

As of 2025, the CEC approval rate exceeds 90%, making it one of the most successful immigration streams in Canada.

What's the difference between TR and PR?

A Temporary Resident (TR) is in Canada for a limited time (visitor, worker, student) while a Permanent Resident (PR) has the right to live and work in Canada indefinitely and access benefits such as healthcare and a path to citizenship.

How long does a temporary resident permit take in Canada?

Processing times for Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs) vary by case complexity and visa office. Check IRCC's processing times tool for live estimates. TRPs are discretionary and may take longer than standard TRV decisions.

Last Updated Nov 05, 2025

⏱️Current Canada Permanent Resident (PR) Card Processing Time: October 29, 2025

By Vineet Tiwari

Ircc Processing Time

If you are waiting for your Permanent Resident (PR) Card in Canada, whether as a new immigrant or a long-time resident needing a renewal, the processing time is a critical factor. As of the latest update on October 29, 2025, the processing time for receiving a new Permanent Resident Card for the first time is estimated at 61 days. Conversely, the process for renewing or replacing an existing PR Card is significantly faster, estimated at 30 days.

It is important to remember that these published times are estimates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and are not a guarantee. Your individual application may take longer depending on its complexity, document submission, and verification requirements.

Quick View of Current PR Card Processing Times

For a rapid reference, the table below summarizes the current processing estimates based on the application type:

Application Type	Estimated Processing Time	Last Updated
New Permanent Resident Card (First Card)	61 days	October 29, 2025
Renewing or Replacing a PR Card	30 days	October 29, 2025

Factors Affecting Your PR Card Timeline

While the official times provide a benchmark, several factors can influence whether your PR card arrives sooner or later than the estimate:

Application Completeness: The single biggest reason for delays is an incomplete or improperly filled-out application. Any missing signatures, forms, or documents will cause the application to be returned or put on hold.
Photo Quality: PR Cards require specific photo dimensions and quality. Incorrect photos are a common reason for processing delays.
Residency Obligation: For renewals, if there are questions regarding whether you have met your Permanent Resident Residency Obligation (at least 730 days in Canada during the last five years), the processing time will be extended to allow for a full review.
Verification: If IRCC needs to verify information with a third party, such as a different government agency or an international partner, your timeline may be delayed.

New Permanent Resident Card vs. Renewal/Replacement

The significant difference in processing time (61 days vs. 30 days) is due to the nature of the application:

New Permanent Resident Card (61 Days): This applies to individuals who have just officially landed as permanent residents. The process here is often tied to the finalization of the landing and status confirmation process, which adds complexity.
Renewing or Replacing a PR Card (30 Days): This is a simpler administrative process for existing permanent residents. Since the applicant’s status and landing information have already been verified in the past, the review is generally faster, focusing primarily on the residency obligation and identity verification.

What to do while you wait:

Avoid Travel: If your PR Card is expired, lost, or still being processed, you cannot use it to return to Canada. If you need to travel, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada, which has its own processing time.
Check Online Status: You can link your application to an IRCC secure account to check for updates, though status updates can sometimes lag behind the actual processing progress.

The key to a smooth and quick processing experience is ensuring your application is 100% complete and accurate before submission.

📚 Read Our Other Immigration Guides

Navigating Canada’s immigration system involves many steps. Stay informed with our other in-depth articles on key pathways and updates:

Canada Express Entry 2025: IRCC Unveils Major Category Changes for New Draws
- A must-read for anyone considering the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) for permanent residency.
- Link to: https://libertyimmigration.ca/blog/canada-express-entry-2025-ircc-unveils-major-category-changes-for-new-draws/
BC PNP: 2025 update, draws, eligibility and how to apply
- Essential information for skilled workers and international graduates aiming for PR through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program.
- Link to: https://libertyimmigration.ca/blog/bc-pnp-2025-update-draws-eligibility-and-how-to-apply/
5 Things to Know Before Hiring an Immigration Consultant in Surrey
- A guide on how to choose a licensed and reliable Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for your application.
- Link to: https://libertyimmigration.ca/blog/5-things-to-know-before-hiring-an-immigration-consultant-in-surrey/

Don’t Risk Delays: Book Your Consultation

The estimated processing times for your PR Card are just that—estimates. The slightest error, missing document, or misinterpretation of IRCC guidelines can lead to significant delays or even refusal. To ensure your application for a new PR Card (61 days) or renewal (30 days) is perfectly prepared and submitted without a hitch, speak with an authorized professional. Book a confidential consultation with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) today. Get personalized advice, identify the most efficient steps for your specific case, and gain the peace of mind that your journey to permanent residence is on the fastest track. Click here to secure your consultation time. [Book an RCIC Consultation Now!]

Canada PR and PR Card FAQ

🇨🇦 Canada Permanent Resident (PR) & PR Card FAQ

⏱️ Processing Times and Speeding Up Your Application

How long does it take to get a permanent resident card for Canada?

Initial PR Card: Approximately 25 to 42 days after landing/confirmation of PR (if you provide a Canadian address).

PR Card Renewal/Replacement: Currently averages around 63 to 71 days for a complete application.

How to get Canadian PR quickly? / Can I get PR in 6 months in Canada?

Yes, the shortest time is typically through Express Entry, which targets 6 months.

Estimated PR Application Processing Times by Program:

PR Program	Estimated Processing Time (Approx.)
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker/CEC)	~6 months (Fastest Route)
Provincial Nominee Program (Express Entry-aligned)	7 to 8 months
Provincial Nominee Program (Base/Non-Express Entry)	12 to 19+ months (Varies by Province)
Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship (Inside Canada)	Varies significantly, often 12 to 24+ months

Tip to Speed Up: Ensure your application is 100% complete and accurate and respond to all IRCC requests (like biometrics) immediately.

How long after biometrics to get green card? (PR Status)

The time after biometrics is part of the overall application processing. For Express Entry, the final approval (CoPR) is generally issued within the 6-month overall timeline.

🧳 Travel and Residency

Can I leave Canada while waiting for a PR card?

You can leave, but you will need a valid PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to board a commercial vehicle (plane, etc.) to return to Canada. It is **strongly advised** for new PRs to wait for the card to arrive before travelling, as IRCC does not mail PR cards to addresses outside Canada.

Which is better, PR or citizenship in Canada?

Citizenship is generally better as it provides greater rights and security, including the right to vote, a Canadian passport, and freedom from the PR Residency Obligation.

Key Difference: PRs have a Residency Obligation (730 days presence in every 5 years); Citizens do not.

📰 New Rules & Delays

What is the new rule of Canada PR?

A significant change is the introduction of Category-Based Express Entry Draws, which target candidates with specific work experience (e.g., healthcare, tech, trades) or French language proficiency to address economic needs.

Why is the PR process slow in Canada?

Delays are typically caused by: high application volumes/backlogs, the complexity and time required for security and background checks, and incomplete/erroneous applications.

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Written By

Vineet Tiwari

Vineet is a caring and creative leader who has lived in India, Oman, UAE, and Canada, giving him a rich multicultural perspective. His commitment to physical fitness keeps him energetic and focused. Vineet's dedication to his clients is evident as he often takes calls on weekends, ensuring they always feel supported and valued. His diverse background and unwavering availability help build strong, trusting relationships with our clients.