What should you keep in mind after you become a new permanent resident of Canada? We love helping people become new permanent residents of Canada at Sisu Legal. Below are some of our most frequently asked questions from new Canadians.
When and where will my new Canada Permanent Residence Card arrive?
Your permanent residence card will arrive at the address you provided at the border or in the online landing portal, within a few weeks of your “landing”. It’s validity will be listed on the card, see “expiry date”. Please contact our office if you need our assistance in extending your Permanent Resident Card at least 90 days prior to its expiration.
Do permanent residents of Canada need work authorization?
As a permanent resident, you are able to legally work in Canada. You do not need to apply for separate employment authorization. You may use you Confirmation of Permanent Residence or Permanent Residence card as evidence of your status as a permanent resident.
How can new permanent residents access Canadian healthcare?
You may apply for healthcare coverage in your province of residence with your confirmation of permanent residence document or permanent residence card. Please note that there may be a waiting period for coverage. For more information on this, please consult a Service Canada office or other provincial health representative.
Can Canadian permanent residents travel abroad without a visa?
Please be mindful that you will need your permanent residence card in lieu of a visa to travel outside of Canada.
How much time do permanent residents of Canada need to spend in Canada to maintain permanent residency?
As a permanent resident, you have residency obligations to maintain your status. To maintain your permanent residence status, you need to spend at least 730 days in Canada over the next 5 years.
We recommend that if you will spend an extended period of time abroad, you keep track of this closely, and give yourself extra days. It may be helpful to keep track of your days abroad, your destination, and the reason for your trip.
What should new Canadian permanent residents know about taxes in Canada?
Every permanent resident of Canada is a Canadian tax resident. As such, you are required to pay taxes on all your income—worldwide. You may be able to benefit from tax treaties that prevent double taxation so you should consult a tax professional for advice on this.
Also, changes in your immigration status may have an effect on your estate planning. If you have not already done so, you may wish to consider consulting a professional with regard to minimizing the amount of taxes which would be involved under such circumstances. If you do not know of an appropriate tax professional, please contact our office for a referral.
How do new Canadian permanent residents get a Social Security Card?
You must apply for your social security card separately. Please visit this website for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin/apply.html
How can Canadian permanent residents become citizens of Canada?
To be eligible for citizenship, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1095 days (3 years), in the 5 years prior to your citizenship application. You also need to have filed your taxes in the corresponding years. Part of the application also includes testing of language skills and also a citizenship test. If you are interested in future citizenship, we would encourage you to immerse yourself in the language, Canadian history, and knowledge of the rights and responsibilities of Canadians.
How to avoid losing your permanent residence?
The following situations may put your permanent residence status in jeopardy:
● Abandonment of permanent residence (for example due to extended time abroad)
● Criminal convictions
● Other more serious offenses (terrorism, engaging in espionage, sabotage, etc.)
● Proceedings to take away your status
What family members can Canadian permanent residents sponsor?
As a permanent resident of Canada, you may be eligible to sponsor your family members. The following are the most commonly eligible family members:
● Dependent children (unmarried) under 22 years of age.
● Parents and grandparents, if selected (only approximately 15,000-30,000 are selected annually).
How can an immigration lawyer help?
- We can help you create and implement a plan to become a Canadian permanent resident.
- We can help you sponsor a family member.
- We can hel you understand your residency obligations.
- We can help you apply for Canadian citizenship.
To get started, schedule a strategy session here.