Canada has introduced a new immigration pathway designed to fast-track permanent residency (PR) for foreign workers. The programme, which is part of the government’s efforts to address labour shortages and attract global talent, allows qualified candidates who secure employment in any of 118 approved companies to transition directly to PR.
The announcement has sparked widespread interest among international job seekers, including many Nigerians aspiring to migrate to Canada for better opportunities. Unlike the traditional PR application process, which can be lengthy and highly competitive, this initiative provides a more direct route by linking permanent residency to verified job offers.
What the New Pathway Offers
According to Canadian authorities, candidates who land jobs in these designated companies will be placed on a priority track for PR. This means they will not have to navigate the long waiting times usually associated with Canada’s Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programmes. Instead, the PR process will run concurrently with their employment.
The approved employers span a variety of key industries, including:
- Technology & IT – software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity firms.
- Healthcare – hospitals, clinics, and aged-care centres are facing worker shortages.
- Construction & Engineering – companies handling infrastructure projects.
- Manufacturing & Skilled Trades – factories and production plants.
- Hospitality & Services – hotels and service providers.
The government noted that these companies were selected because of their strong track record in hiring foreign talent and their alignment with Canada’s long-term economic needs.
Benefits for Foreign Workers
For eligible job seekers, this pathway offers several advantages:
- Guaranteed PR route once hired by an approved company.
- Work and settle simultaneously without waiting years for PR approval.
- Access to healthcare, education, and other benefits from the start of residency.
- Stability for families, with accompanying family members also eligible for PR.
Why Canada Introduced the Programme
Canada continues to face pressing labour shortages, particularly in healthcare and technology. Officials say this new system will ensure that foreign workers who are already contributing to Canada’s economy are not left in limbo over their residency status.
Immigration experts also point out that this initiative could help Canada compete with other popular destinations, such as the US and the UK, which are tightening migration rules.
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What Nigerians Should Know
For many Nigerians exploring migration opportunities, this presents a new route that bypasses the uncertainty of traditional applications. However, candidates must ensure that their job offer comes from one of the 118 officially designated employers. Scammers may attempt to exploit the announcement by offering fake employment letters.
Prospective applicants are advised to regularly check the official Government of Canada website for the full list of eligible companies and updates on the application process.
Next Steps
Those interested should begin by:
- Reviewing the official list of approved companies.
- Applying for open positions through the company’s career portals or verified job boards.
- Ensuring all required documents, such as academic qualifications, work experience proofs, and language test results, are up to date.
With this new pathway, Canada has signalled that it is not only looking for workers but also long-term residents who will strengthen its workforce and communities. For many skilled Nigerians, this could be the golden opportunity to achieve both career growth and permanent settlement abroad.
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