Hoping to get a Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) from India can be done in a planned manner when the time is understood. The entire process of PR application feels like a big task. However, knowing the time range for each step would ease the situation greatly.


It could take up to a year to apply to get a PR visa in Canada, depending on the program, as the time frame varies. Generally, Canada PR processing time from India is up to 6 to 8 months. Besides the many factors involved, the process could extend up to 12 months.


Moving to Canada introduces an array of possibilities at a very high cost: permanent residency. So, how long will it take? With the timelines available, one can stay prepared, avoid delays, and make informed decisions for the future.

Average Processing time of the different Canada PR Programs

By and large, the Canada PR processing time as of now is 6 to 8 Months.


Canada PR Program

Processing Time

Express Entry Canada

6 Months

Canada PNP programs

4 -11 Months

Canada spouse sponsor stream

7 - 9 Months

Canada Children Sponsor stream

up to 18 months

Canada's parents sponsor stream

up to 22 months


Canada has to offer a variety of immigration programs. These programs have different processing times. Any option that a skilled worker follows or through family sponsorship takes time. These options include a summary of the major options.

1. Express Entry Program

Express Entry known as the fastest PR pathway, this program takes 6 to 8 months to process after biometrics submission — ideal for those seeking quicker results.

2. Canada PNP Program

Canada PNP typically takes 4-11 months. A province nominates a candidate under a Provincial Nominee Program based on labor market needs within the province.

3. The Canada Spouse Sponsor Stream

Processed in 7-9 months, it enables a Canadian citizen or PR holder to sponsor his or her spouse/common-law partner for residency.

4. Canada Children Sponsor Stream

It takes 18 months or so to process, subsequently offering permanence to dependent children of Canadian citizens or PR holders.

5. The Canada Parents Sponsor Stream

May process requests for up to 22 months. This allows citizens or PR holders to bring their parents or grandparents into Canada as permanent residents.


Indeed, Canada has other immigration programs such as those listed below.


  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): In contrast, a resident of Quebec can expect 14 to 16 months for processing.

  • Startup Visa: This application will take entrepreneur applicants an average of 24 to 37 months and is concerned with business-starting.

  • Entrepreneur Program: This averaged about 12 to 18 months for processing.

  • Self-Employed Persons Program: Mainly for self-employed persons, this might take more time compared to the other pathways - 48 to 56 months.

  • PNP Business Programs: These are business-related applications with a processing time of 16 to 18 months.

  • Atlantic Immigration Program: This applies to the AIP, which is faster at 6 to 8 months, for those who want to settle in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.

  • Investor Visa: The processing time varies from one Investor Visa category to another or according to the personal situation.


One can wish to get such timelines so that he or she can opt for a possible pathway to his or her needs and start mapping the journey with confidence in Canada.


The commencement of time on a Canada PR visa application process is the day Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has received the full application submitted and continues until a final decision is made.


Various factors determine the length of time taken for this, which include:

  • Your Country of Residence

  • Type of Application

  •  Completeness of Your Application

What are the factors that affect Canada PR Visa Application?

There are many other types of delays which affect it, mostly out of your control, but knowing them helps you to avoid them:


  • Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incorrect details can lead to considerable time delays in making an application.

  • Program Selection: Some immigration programs have relatively longer timelines than others. Choosing the best suited for you is crucial.

  • Problems with Medical and Biometrics: Any delays in them can block you from moving forward with your application.

  • High Application Volume: During peak times, IRCC might suffer backlogs, causing extended processing times.


Patience, Preparation, and Process are essential factors in the journey of becoming a Canadian permanent resident. Knowing the Canada PR Processing Time and sending an error-free application keeps you proactive and increases the chance of smooth & timely approval.