As you click on this blog post, you might be dreaming of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the vibrant cities of Toronto or Vancouver, or perhaps the rich cultural heritage of Quebec. Canada is indeed a land of wonder, and for many, a land of opportunities. The journey to becoming a permanent resident in Canada can be a complex one, but worry not, we're here to help you navigate these waters.
730 Days in Canada: The Magic Number
The primary rule to remember for maintaining your permanent resident status in Canada is the '730-day rule'. This rule stipulates that you must have lived in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years. But hold on, these 730 days don’t need to be continuous. Moreover, some of your time spent abroad may also count towards these 730 days. So, what circumstances allow your time abroad to be included? Let's delve deeper.
Your Time Abroad: Does it Count?
Your time outside Canada may count towards maintaining your permanent resident status under specific conditions. These conditions are primarily based on your employment status and who you are traveling with.
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Working Outside Canada: If you are employed full-time for a Canadian business or organization, or the Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial government, your time abroad can count towards your resident status.
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Traveling with a Spouse or Common-law Partner: If your spouse or common-law partner is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident working outside Canada, full-time for a Canadian business or the Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial government, then your time abroad will be considered.
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Dependent Child Traveling with a Parent: If you’re a dependent child traveling with your parent who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident working outside Canada, full-time for a Canadian business or the Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial government, your time abroad can also count towards your resident status.
We understand that immigration rules can be quite tricky to comprehend. But remember, every journey begins with a single step, and understanding these rules is the first step towards your dream of a life in Canada.