Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Choose the province you want to live in

Provincial Nominee ProgramsApply for PRStep 6 of 8

BlockedFederal step · RequiredYou are here

6. Apply to IRCC for permanent residence

Whichever route you're on, permanent residence is decided by IRCC, not by the province.

Waiting on: Receive a nomination

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 6 of 8 · RequiredClose

Apply to IRCC for permanent residence

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepImmigrate as a provincial nomineecanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

Whichever route you're on, permanent residence is decided by IRCC, not by the province. You submit the federal application with your nomination certificate and pay IRCC's fees, including the right of permanent residence fee.

Why it's required: A nomination weighs heavily but does not decide the outcome. IRCC still assesses admissibility (medical, criminal and security) on its own.

Decided byIRCCThe province nominates; the federal government admits.

FeesCheck the listFederal fees are separate from the provincial ones you already paid.

Documents you'll need

Your nomination certificate
Identity and civil status documents for everyone included
Proof of funds, if the stream or program requires it

Before this step

BlockedReceive a nomination

Finishing this unlocks: Biometrics, medical and police certificates