Permanent Residency — Requirements and Process | GoAbroadly

Requirements

What you need
to apply

Current valid visa in the target country (or offshore application depending on stream)
Qualifying work experience or education in the country
Language test results — IELTS, CELPIP or equivalent
Medical examination from approved physician
Police clearance certificates
Proof of funds where required

Key Notes

Each country has different PR routes — Canada uses Express Entry, UK uses indefinite leave to remain, Australia uses Permanent Residence visas
PR is not citizenship — it gives the right to live and work permanently but voting rights are separate
Most countries require 3 to 5 years of continuous residence before PR is granted
Some streams allow offshore PR applications without being in the country first

Pro Tip

The fastest PR pathways are Canada Express Entry (6 to 8 months if invited) and Australia skilled migration (8 to 12 months for state-sponsored streams). We recommend starting the assessment 12 to 18 months before your target move.