Maple News reports that Iran continues to be one of Canada’s top sources of new immigrants, thanks in large part to the country’s educated workforce and strong English-language proficiency. In 2019 alone, over 6,000 Iranians became Canadian permanent residents, placing Iran among the top 10 immigrant source countries. With more than 200,000 Iranians already settled in Canada, newcomers benefit from strong community support that eases their integration process.
Canada is actively expanding its immigration intake to sustain economic growth. According to the country’s multi-year Immigration Levels Plan, over 400,000 newcomers are expected to be welcomed annually, with about 60% expected to arrive under economic class programs. Most of these immigrants are skilled workers, making pathways like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) particularly relevant for Iranian applicants.
Express Entry remains the leading system for skilled immigration to Canada. Iranians have consistently ranked among the top nationalities in this competitive program. Express Entry manages applications for three economic immigration streams: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Applicants are awarded points based on factors such as education, age, language skills, and work experience through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with the highest-scoring candidates receiving Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.
Another prominent option is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces and territories to select candidates who meet local labor market demands. Major provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba actively operate PNP streams. Entering the Express Entry pool can also increase your chances of receiving a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points to your CRS score—virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
Quebec offers its own immigration system and remains an important destination for Francophone-skilled workers. The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) operates similarly to federal immigration streams but requires proficiency in the French language and a separate evaluation process. Once selected by Quebec, candidates can apply to the federal government for permanent residence.
In addition to these programs, regional initiatives like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) are designed to address labor shortages in provinces such as New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. These programs can be attractive to Iranians looking for opportunities in smaller Canadian communities.
For younger Iranians, studying in Canada presents a strategic pathway to permanent residency. Nearly 15,000 Iranian students studied in Canada in 2019. Graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to earn Canadian work experience—an important factor in boosting eligibility for permanent residency through Express Entry and other immigration streams.
In total, Canada offers over 100 immigration and visa pathways, providing Iranian nationals with highly flexible options. With strong academic credentials, international experience, and growing demand for talent, Iranians remain well-positioned to succeed in Canada’s dynamic immigration landscape.
As Canada continues to welcome global talent, Maple News affirms the country’s openness to Iranian professionals, students, and skilled tradespeople seeking a better future in one of the world’s most immigration-friendly nations.