In 2025, Canada is set to reopen the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway, a vital immigration program that opens doors for many individuals to transition from temporary to permanent residency in the country. First introduced in 2021, this TR to Permanent Residence pathway was designed to recognize the essential contributions made by temporary residents, such as international students, essential workers, and temporary foreign workers. With the re-opening of the TR to PR pathway, there is renewed hope for individuals seeking to build their future in Canada.

The TR to PR pathway aims to simplify the process for individuals who have already integrated into Canadian society through their work or studies, providing them with a clear path to permanent residency. As one of the more significant IRCC PR pathways, it is an essential element of Canada’s immigration plan that focuses on addressing labor shortages and welcoming skilled individuals into its diverse workforce. 

In this blog, we will explore understanding the TR to PR pathway, the 2025 updates, and how prospective applicants can navigate the system.

What is TR to PR?

TR to PR (Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident) is a special immigration pathway introduced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that enables temporary residents to transition to permanent residency. The program was initially launched in 2021 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing the need to retain essential workers who had been crucial to the economy during challenging times.

Through the TR to PR pathway, eligible temporary residents, such as workers, international students, and other essential personnel, could apply for permanent residency in Canada. The key to the success of this pathway lies in the applicants’ existing ties to the country, whether through employment or study, which demonstrates their potential to integrate smoothly into Canadian society.

Temporary vs. Permanent Residency

Before diving deeper into the TR to PR pathway, it’s important to understand the difference between temporary and permanent residency.

• Temporary Residency: Individuals with temporary residency status in Canada are generally in the country for a specific period, either as workers, students, or visitors. Temporary residents are typically not entitled to certain benefits available to permanent residents, such as access to health care or the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.
• Permanent Residency: Permanent residents (PR) are non-citizens who have been granted the right to live in Canada indefinitely. They have access to most social benefits, including health care, and can eventually apply for Canadian citizenship if they meet the necessary criteria. PR status is a significant step for many immigrants and serves as a path to full citizenship.

TR to PR Pathway Latest Update 2025

As we approach the reopening of the TR to PR pathway in 2025, the Canadian government is expected to make several updates to the program. The TR to PR pathway 2025 is designed to continue supporting Canada’s labor market by attracting skilled workers and students who have already contributed to the economy. The Canadian government will likely offer several updates regarding the program’s eligibility criteria, processing times, and available pathways.

TR to PR Processing Time Update

One of the most frequently asked questions by applicants is regarding processing times. As per the latest TR to PR news, IRCC aims to process applications as efficiently as possible. Even with the 2025 TR to PR processing time update, the duration may vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s occupation, location, and completeness of their application. However, the Canadian government is focused on reducing the backlog and providing applicants with clearer timelines.

What are the Available Pathways for Permanent Residency Under the TR to PR Pathway in 2025?

In 2025, the TR to PR pathway will offer several distinct pathways for applicants based on their work experience, education, and occupation. The key Canada PR pathways for permanent residency under the TR to PR pathway include:

• Essential Workers Pathway: This pathway targets individuals working in essential sectors like healthcare, transportation, agriculture, and construction, which have been deemed vital to Canada’s economy.
• International Students Pathway: This pathway focuses on international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions and have work experience in Canada.
• Temporary Foreign Workers Pathway: This includes workers who hold temporary work permits in Canada and have gained valuable work experience.

Who Qualifies Under the TR to PR Pathway Canada Targeting Essential Occupations?

Under the TR to PR pathway 2025, essential occupations are those that are vital to the Canadian economy. These include roles in healthcare, agriculture, transportation, construction, and food production. The program will prioritize individuals who have been working in these fields during the pandemic and have shown their value to the country’s workforce.

Essential workers include nurses, doctors, truck drivers, grocery store workers, and those in the food service and cleaning industries. Workers in these sectors will be able to apply for permanent residency through the TR to PR pathway if they meet other eligibility requirements, such as having a valid work permit and fulfilling specific work experience criteria.

How Much Does the TR to PR Immigration Program Cost?

The TR to PR immigration program involves several fees, including application processing fees, biometrics fees, and the right of permanent residence fee. These fees can vary depending on the applicant’s family size and the specific program they are applying under.

On average, the cost of applying for the TR to PR pathway includes:

• Application processing fee for principal applicants: Around CAD 1,325
• Spouse or common-law partner fee: Around CAD 1,325
• Dependent children fee: CAD 225 per child
• Biometrics fee (if applicable): CAD 85

In total, applicants can expect to pay between CAD 1,500 to CAD 3,000, depending on their family size and other factors.

How Long Will It Take to Process Applications Made Under the TR to PR Immigration Programs?

Processing times for TR to PR pathway applications vary based on the applicant’s circumstances, but the general timeframe is typically between 12 to 18 months. Factors such as the completeness of the application, the applicant’s occupation, and the volume of applications submitted can impact the processing times.

The TR to PR processing time update in 2025 will likely reflect IRCC’s ongoing efforts to reduce backlogs and streamline the process, particularly with an increased focus on essential workers.

What Are the Different Occupations that Qualify as Essential Workers in the TR to PR Program 2025?

Essential workers are those whose jobs are vital to the functioning of the economy. In the TR to PR pathway 2025, some of the key occupations that qualify include:

• Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, pharmacists)
• Teachers and educational workers
• Grocery store clerks, retail workers
• Construction workers
• Agricultural workers
• Transport and logistics workers (truck drivers, delivery personnel)

These occupations will be prioritized in the TR to PR pathway, allowing individuals working in these sectors to transition to permanent residency.

What Occupations Qualify Under the TR to PR Pathway as Healthcare Workers?

Healthcare workers are crucial in the TR to PR program, especially in light of the global pandemic. Nurses, physicians, medical technicians, healthcare aides, and pharmacists all fall under the essential worker category. If these individuals have gained relevant Canadian work experience and meet other requirements, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency under the healthcare worker component of the TR to PR pathway.

How to Apply for TR to PR Pathway 2025 Programs?

The application process for the TR to PR pathway 2025 is relatively straightforward. Applicants need to gather the required documents, including proof of work experience, proof of temporary residency, and educational qualifications. Once the documentation is complete, applicants can submit their applications online through the IRCC website.

TR to PR Requirements

To qualify for the TR to PR pathway, applicants must meet several key criteria:

• Be a temporary resident (worker, student, etc.)
• Have work experience in an eligible occupation (for essential workers)
• Meet the minimum language requirements
• Have a job offer or be working in Canada (for some pathways)
• Pass medical, criminal, and security checks

Permanent Residency Canada Requirements

In addition to the TR to PR pathway requirements, applicants must also meet the general Canada permanent residency requirements. These include:

• Proof of identity (passport, etc.)
• Medical examination
• Police certificate (for criminal background checks)
• Proof of work experience and educational credentials

The TR to PR pathway 2025 represents a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to make Canada their permanent home. By understanding the requirements and staying up-to-date with the latest news and processing times, applicants can successfully navigate this pathway and achieve their goal of permanent residency.

For any assistance with TR to PR pathway, please contact us at 416-447-6118 to speak to our immigration lawyers today.

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