Haitians facing displacement from the United States have an opportunity to consider settling in Canada, which offers a six-month pathway to permanent residence (PR) for French speakers.
Canada welcomes over 100,000 permanent residents annually through Express Entry, a selection system that prioritizes French speakers.
Benefits of Express Entry for French Speakers
- Express Entry grants additional points to candidates with French language skills.
- Larger selection rounds are conducted where only French speakers receive invitations to apply for Canadian permanent residence.
Approximately 78% of PR applications through Express Entry were processed within six months between August 2025 and July 2026, based on the latest available official data.
To pursue permanent residence through Express Entry, individuals must demonstrate an intent to settle in Canada outside of Québec.
Steps to Obtain Permanent Residence through Express Entry
- Meet the minimum requirements for one of the Express Entry programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
- Pass an immigration language test authorized by the government.
- Create an Express Entry profile and enter the candidate pool.
- Receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence from the pool.
- Undergo an immigration medical exam and submit a complete PR application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Upon approval, receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) in approximately six months.
- Travel to Canada and officially become a permanent resident.
As a permanent resident, individuals have the freedom to relocate and settle in any Canadian province or territory. Permanent resident status is valid indefinitely, requiring a presence in Canada for at least 730 days within every rolling five-year period.
Upon landing, the PR card can be mailed to the Canadian address, offering a five-year validity and the option for unlimited renewals.