Gaining permanent residency and eventually citizenship in a new country is a significant milestone for immigrants. For Pakistani immigrants, understanding the diverse requirements and processes involved in different countries can be challenging. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the requirements for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship in some of the most popular destinations for Pakistani immigrants.

 

Canada

Permanent Residency

Overview

Canada offers multiple pathways for obtaining permanent residency (PR), including the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and family sponsorship.

 

Requirements

• Express Entry: Points-based system evaluating factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
• PNPs: Each province has its own criteria, often focusing on specific skills or occupations in demand.
• Family Sponsorship: Sponsoring a spouse, partner, children, parents, or grandparents.

Application Tips

• Ensure your qualifications and work experience are well-documented.
• Improve your language proficiency in English or French.
• Research specific PNP requirements if applying through a provincial program.

Citizenship

Requirements

• Hold PR status for at least 3 years out of the last 5 years.
• File taxes for at least 3 years within that period.
• Demonstrate language skills in English or French.
• Pass a citizenship test covering Canadian history, values, institutions, and symbols.

Australia

Permanent Residency

Overview

Australia offers several visa options for permanent residency, including the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), and family-sponsored visas.

 

Requirements

• Skilled Independent Visa: Points-based system considering age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
• Skilled Nominated Visa: Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
• Family-Sponsored Visas: Sponsorship by eligible family members.

Application Tips

• Obtain a positive skills assessment for your occupation.
• Improve your English language skills.
• Secure state or territory nomination if applying for subclass 190.

Citizenship

Requirements

• Hold PR status for at least 4 years, with at least 1 year as a PR.
• Pass a citizenship test.
• Demonstrate good character.
• Show intention to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with the country.

United States

Permanent Residency

Overview

The United States grants permanent residency primarily through family-sponsored visas, employment-based visas, and the Diversity Visa Lottery.

 

Requirements

• Family-Sponsored Visas: Sponsorship by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.
• Employment-Based Visas: Job offer from a U.S. employer and labor certification in most cases.
• Diversity Visa Lottery: Random selection process for applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.

Application Tips

• Ensure your sponsor meets financial requirements for family-sponsored visas.
• Seek employment in industries with high demand for skilled workers.
• Apply early for the Diversity Visa Lottery as it has a limited number of visas.

Citizenship

Requirements

• Hold a Green Card for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
• Show good moral character.
• Pass an English and civics test.

United Kingdom

Permanent Residency

Overview

The UK offers Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a pathway to permanent residency, typically through work visas, family visas, or long residence.

 

Requirements

• Work Visas: Employment in a qualifying occupation and continuous residence for 5 years.
• Family Visas: Sponsorship by a UK citizen or settled person.
• Long Residence: Continuous legal residence in the UK for at least 10 years.

Application Tips

• Maintain continuous residence and avoid absences exceeding the allowed limit.
• Meet eligibility criteria for your specific visa category.
• Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language and life in the UK.

Citizenship

Requirements

• Hold ILR for at least 1 year.
• Pass the Life in the UK Test.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency.
• Meet residency requirements and good character criteria.

Conclusion

Understanding the requirements for permanent residency and citizenship is crucial for Pakistani immigrants aiming to settle in a new country. Each destination has its unique pathways and criteria, so thorough research and preparation are essential. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can navigate the process more effectively and take significant steps towards achieving your immigration goals. Good luck!