Landing in Canada as an Immigrant While Inland: What You Need to Know

This blog will explain what it means to "land" in Canada while you're already living here (called "inland landing") and what steps you need to take to complete your permanent residence process.

What Does "Landing" Mean in Canada?

In Canadian immigration, “landing” means officially becoming a permanent resident (PR). It’s the final step after your permanent residence application is approved. For people who are applying from outside Canada, this usually happens when they cross the border. But if you’re already living in Canada—on a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa—you will need to land inland.

Inland Landing: Who Is Eligible?

Inland landing applies to people who:

• Are already inside Canada when they receive their permanent residence approval
  
  
• Applied through an inland immigration program, such as:
  • Spousal or Common-law Sponsorship (Inland Class)
    
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
    
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP – Inland)
    
  • Express Entry while inside Canada
    
  • TR to PR Pathways (if reopened in 2025)
• Receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a PR Visa or eCOPR (electronic Confirmation of PR)
  
  

How Do You “Land” in Canada While Inland?

In 2025, most inland applicants complete the landing process virtually. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Application Approval

You'll get a notice from IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) that your application is approved, and you’ll receive your COPR or eCOPR.

Step 2: Create a PR Portal Account

IRCC will invite you to use the Permanent Residence Portal (not to be confused with your IRCC secure account). In the portal, you will:

• Confirm you're inside Canada
  
  
• Upload a photo
  
  
• Provide your mailing address for your PR card
  
  

Step 3: Get eCOPR

Once IRCC processes your information, they will issue your electronic Confirmation of Permanent Residence (eCOPR).

At this point, you are officially a permanent resident.

Step 4: Receive Your PR Card

After getting your eCOPR, you’ll wait to receive your physical PR card by mail. This can take several weeks. You don’t need the card to start enjoying PR status, but you do need it to re-enter Canada by air if you travel abroad.

How Long Does Inland Landing in Canada Take in 2025?

Here’s a general timeline after you receive your approval:

These timelines can vary depending on the volume of applications and your location.

Important Tips for Inland Landings

1. Stay in Canada – You must be physically in Canada to complete virtual landing.
   
   
2. Check Your Email – IRCC will send PR Portal instructions by email.
   
   
3. Use the Same Info – Be consistent with addresses and photo ID.
   
   
4. Don't Travel Until You Get Your PR Card – You can’t return by plane without it unless you apply for a travel document abroad.
   
   

What Documents Will You Need?

• IRCC Approval Letter
  
  
• Valid ID (passport)
  
  
• Digital photo (per specifications)
  
  
• Canadian address for PR card delivery
  
  
• Access to email and internet for PR Portal use
  
  

What If You’re Asked to Land at a Port of Entry (POE)?

Although most people use the virtual process, IRCC might instruct you to land at a border (POE) in some cases—especially if the virtual process is delayed or if you're transitioning from a temporary visa that doesn't support online landing. If so, you’ll need to:

• Travel to a land border with the U.S. (known as flagpoling)
  
  
• Present your COPR and ID
  
  
• Complete landing with a border officer
  
  

NOTE: Flagpoling isn’t always allowed or advisable. Border officers may turn people away if their documents are incomplete.

Common Questions About Inland Landing

Q: Can I start working as a PR right away?
A: Yes! Once you receive your eCOPR, you are officially a permanent resident and can work without a permit.

Q: Do I need to go to an IRCC office?
A: No. As of 2025, most inland landings are completed 100% online.

Q: What if I move before receiving my PR card?
A: Update your address in the PR Portal or inform IRCC to avoid delivery issues.

Summary: Inland Landing

Landing in Canada as an immigrant while already living here is now a streamlined, online process. Just follow the steps in your PR Portal invitation, upload your documents, and wait for your eCOPR and PR card.

If you have questions about your landing process or want help with your permanent residence journey, book a strategy session with our legal team today: Schedule your consultation here