Top 5 Things to Know About Landed Immigrants in Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: A Landed Immigrant in Canada is a term historically used for individuals who have been granted permanent residence but are not yet citizens. They hold the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada indefinitely, provided they meet residency obligations. Today, this status is officially referred to as "Permanent Resident," though the older term is still commonly used in informal contexts.

If you're navigating Canadian immigration, understanding the term "Landed Immigrant" is key to grasping your rights and responsibilities. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about this status, from its historical roots to practical steps for maintaining it in 2025–2026.

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What is a Landed Immigrant in Canada?

A Landed Immigrant is an outdated term for a person who has been granted permanent residence in Canada but has not yet become a citizen. According to IRCC’s official glossary, the term was officially replaced with "Permanent Resident" in 2002 under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). However, you may still encounter it in older documents or casual conversation. As a Landed Immigrant (now Permanent Resident), you have the right to live, work, or study anywhere in Canada, access most social benefits, and apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting eligibility criteria.

Key facts about Landed Immigrant status:

• It provides indefinite permission to reside in Canada, unlike temporary visas.
• You must carry and present your Permanent Resident (PR) Card or PR Travel Document when re-entering Canada by commercial vehicle.
• The status can be revoked if you fail to meet residency obligations or commit serious crimes.

To check how your profile might score under today’s Express Entry system, use Evola’s free CRS Calculator.

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What Rights Do Landed Immigrants Have in Canada?

Landed Immigrants (Permanent Residents) enjoy most of the same rights and freedoms as Canadian citizens, with a few exceptions. You are protected under Canadian law and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, including rights to equality, mobility, and legal recourse. This means you can work for any employer, study at any institution, and receive healthcare under provincial plans once eligible.

According to the Government of Canada’s page on Rights and Responsibilities of Permanent Residents, key rights include:

• Access to universal healthcare after meeting provincial waiting periods.
• Protection under Canadian law and the ability to seek legal employment.
• Freedom to live and move anywhere within Canada.

However, there are limitations:

• You cannot vote in federal or provincial elections.
• You are ineligible for some high-level security clearance jobs.
• Your status must be maintained by meeting residency requirements.

Evola AI helps you stay informed about your rights and any policy updates in real-time, so you’re never caught off guard.

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What Are the Residency Obligations for a Landed Immigrant?

To maintain your status as a Landed Immigrant (Permanent Resident), you must meet specific residency obligations set by IRCC. You need to be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within every 5-year period. This ensures you maintain strong ties to Canada and are eligible to renew your PR Card or apply for citizenship when qualified.

There are some exceptions to this rule, such as:

• Accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or partner abroad.
• Working full-time for a Canadian business or government outside Canada.
• Humanitarian and compassionate reasons assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Failing to meet these obligations can lead to loss of status. Use Evola’s Immigration Success Predictor to model different scenarios and stay compliant.

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How Does a Landed Immigrant Become a Canadian Citizen?

After holding Permanent Resident status for at least 3 years (1,095 days) within the 5 years before applying, you may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. You must also meet language requirements in English or French, pass a citizenship test, and have filed taxes if required. According to IRCC’s Citizenship Eligibility page, this process solidifies your place as a full member of Canadian society with added rights like voting and holding a Canadian passport.

Steps to apply for citizenship:

1. Ensure you meet physical presence and tax filing requirements.
2. Demonstrate language proficiency at CLB 4 or higher.
3. Pass the citizenship knowledge test and interview.

To gauge your language level, try Evola’s CLB Converter for quick reference.

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Can a Landed Immigrant Lose Their Status in Canada?

Yes, a Landed Immigrant (Permanent Resident) can lose their status for specific reasons, such as not meeting residency obligations, committing serious criminality, or misrepresentation in their application. According to IRCC’s guidelines on Losing Permanent Resident Status, the process often involves a review or hearing before a final decision is made.

Common reasons for losing PR status:

• Failing to accumulate 730 days of physical presence in Canada over 5 years.
• Being convicted of a serious crime that leads to inadmissibility.
• Fraud discovered in the initial application process.

If you’re concerned about maintaining your status, Evola AI offers 24/7 guidance to help you navigate these rules confidently.

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Conclusion

Understanding your status as a Landed Immigrant—now officially termed Permanent Resident—is crucial for building a successful life in Canada. From knowing your rights to meeting residency requirements, staying informed ensures you can fully enjoy the opportunities Canada offers. Whether you’re planning to apply for citizenship or simply maintain your PR status, tools and support are available to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take control of your Canadian immigration journey? Explore Evola AI for personalized advice, real-time policy updates, and AI-powered tools designed for your success.