banner
How to Apply for Canada PR
Online (PR Portal) – A
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Apply for Canada PR Online (PR Portal) – A Step-by-Step Guide

Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for immigrants worldwide, thanks to its high quality of life, strong economy, and welcoming policies. If you’re planning to become a permanent resident, applying through the Canada PR Portal is the easiest and most efficient way to do it.


In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire Canada PR application process online, covering eligibility, required documents, fees, and more.


Table of Contents


  1. What is the Canada PR Portal?
  2. Who Can Apply for Canada PR Online?
  3. Eligibility Requirements for Canada PR
  4. Documents Required for Canada PR Application
  5. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Canada PR Online
  6. How to Create an Account on the PR Portal
  7. Canada PR Processing Time & Fees
  8. Common Reasons for PR Application Rejection
  9. Tips to Speed Up Your PR Approval
  10. FAQs About Canada PR Online Application


1. What is the Canada PR Portal?


The Canada Permanent Residence (PR) Portal is an online system developed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to allow applicants to submit their PR applications electronically. It streamlines the immigration process, making it faster and more convenient.


With the PR portal, you can:
✅ Submit your PR application online
✅ Upload supporting documents
✅ Pay fees electronically
✅ Receive real-time application updates

The PR portal is different from Express Entry, which is a point-based system for selecting skilled workers. If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Express Entry, you will submit your PR application via the PR portal.


2. Who Can Apply for Canada PR Online?


You can apply for Canada PR online if you belong to any of the following immigration programs:


  • Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Family Sponsorship
  • Atlantic Immigration Program
  • Agri-Food Pilot
  • Caregiver Programs
  • Start-Up Visa Program

If you are applying through refugee or humanitarian programs, you may need to use a different process.


3. Eligibility Requirements for Canada PR


To apply for Canada PR, you must meet specific eligibility criteria based on your immigration program. However, general requirements include:

  • Age: Applicants should be at least 18 years old.
  • Education: A recognized educational credential (ECA) is required for most economic programs.
  • Work Experience: Minimum work experience as per the selected PR category (e.g., 1 year for Express Entry).
  • Language Proficiency: A minimum CLB 7 in IELTS (6.0 in each section) or equivalent in French (TEF Canada).
  • Proof of Funds: Sufficient settlement funds, unless you have a job offer in Canada.
  • Medical & Police Clearance: Must pass medical and security checks.


4. Documents Required for Canada PR Application


Here’s a list of essential documents needed to apply for PR online:

Valid Passport
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report
Language Test Results (IELTS/TEF)
Proof of Work Experience (Reference Letters, Payslips, etc.)
Proof of Funds (Bank Statements, Fixed Deposits, etc.)
Medical Examination Report
Police Clearance Certificate
Offer of Employment (if applicable)
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Birth Certificate (for dependents)

Ensure all documents are scanned, clear, and in PDF format before uploading them to the portal.


5. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Canada PR Online


Follow these steps to submit your Canada PR application online:


Step 1: Check Eligibility


Use the IRCC eligibility tool to determine which immigration program suits you.


Step 2: Gather Required Documents


Make sure you have all necessary documents ready and scanned.


Step 3: Create an Account on the PR Portal


Sign up on the Canada PR Portal using your email.


Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form


Complete the online Permanent Residence (PR) application form with accurate details.


Step 5: Upload Documents


Attach scanned copies of all required documents.


Step 6: Pay Fees Online


Pay the PR application fee using a valid credit or debit card.


Step 7: Submit Your Application


After reviewing all details, submit your application online.


Step 8: Wait for Processing & Biometrics Request


IRCC will request biometric information (fingerprints & photo) after submission.


6. How to Create an Account on the PR Portal




To create an account on the PR Portal, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official IRCC PR Portal website.
  2. Click on “Sign Up” and enter your email.
  3. Receive a confirmation email and create a password.
  4. Log in and start your PR application.


7. Canada PR Processing Time & Fees


Processing Time:


  • Express Entry: 6 months
  • PNP: 6-12 months
  • Family Sponsorship: 12-24 months
  • Start-Up Visa: 12-16 months


Canada PR Fees (2025): 


Fee TypeAmount (CAD)
Application FeeCAD $950
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)CAD $575 per applicant
Spouse FeeCAD $950
Dependent ChildCAD $260 per child

Official fees are subject to change. Please check the current fee schedule here.


8. Common Reasons for PR Application Rejection


Many applicants face PR rejection due to:

❌ Incomplete or incorrect application forms
❌ Missing required documents
❌ Insufficient proof of funds
❌ Low CRS score (for Express Entry)
❌ Failing medical or background checks


9. Tips to Speed Up Your PR Approval


✅ Double-check documents before submission
✅ Provide clear, well-organized PDFs
✅ Submit accurate and complete details
✅ Avoid last-minute applications
✅ Keep track of emails from IRCC


10. FAQs About Canada PR Online Application


Q1: Can I apply for Canada PR without a job offer?


Yes, through Express Entry and PNP, you can apply without a job offer.


Q2: How long does it take to get PR after applying online?


Processing takes 6-12 months depending on the immigration program.


Q3: What is the minimum CRS score required for PR?


CRS score varies, but 470+ is considered competitive for Express Entry.


Final Thoughts


Applying for Canada PR online through the PR Portal is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Make sure to check eligibility, gather documents, and submit a complete application to avoid delays or rejection.

Want to track your application? Log in to your PR portal account for updates!