Permanent Residency (Express Entry, ILR, 189): Canada vs United Kingdom
Side-by-side comparison of government fees, processing times, PR timelines, work rights, and cost of living — for African professionals.
Permanent residency is the milestone that turns a visa into a long-term plan. Compare how Canada and the United Kingdom approach PR for skilled African professionals. In Canada, processing typically takes 16–26 weeks. The typical path to permanent residency takes 1 years in Canada versus 5 years in the United Kingdom. Citizenship follows after 3 years in Canada and 6 years in the United Kingdom — a meaningful long-term difference for families planning to settle.
Permanent Residency (Express Entry, ILR, 189)
Applies to this pathway across all destinations
| 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | |
|---|---|---|
| Government Application Fees | CAD $850 processing + CAD $515 RPRF = CAD $1,365 total | £2,885 ILR application fee |
| Processing Time | 16–26 wks | — |
| Work Hours During Study | — | — |
| Post-Study Work Route | — | — |
| Dependent / Family Rights | Spouse and dependent children included on PR application; become PRs on landing | Qualifying family members can apply for ILR simultaneously |
| Spouse Work Rights | PR status — full and unrestricted work rights in Canada | ILR — full and unrestricted work rights in the UK |
| Typical Time to PR (yrs) | 1 yrsExpress Entry draw-to-ITA to landing typically 6–12 months from invitation; profile build may take longer to reach CRS cutoff | 5 yrsMust have completed 5 years on qualifying visa first (Skilled Worker, Global Talent, etc.) |
| PR Pathway Summary | Points-based CRS system; employment in Canada, education, and language all contribute score; targeted draws for specific occupations | No single absence >180 days; total absences ≤450 days in 5-year qualifying period; Life in the UK Test; IELTS B1 |
| Path to Citizenship (yrs) | 3 yrs | 6 yrs |
| Healthcare Access | Provincial health (OHIP/MSP); 3-month wait in some provinces; no premium in most | NHS — free at point of use; IHS surcharge £1,035/yr required for most visa holders |
| Effective Tax Rate at Median (%) | 30% | 30% |
| Credential Recognition Body | WES (Canada) or ICAS | UK ENIC |
| Primary City Cost Index (London=100) | Toronto · 83 | London · 100 |
Next step
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Permanent Residency processing typically take in Canada?
In Canada, Permanent Residency applications typically take 16–26 weeks to process. Times can vary by visa category and country of origin — always verify with the official government portal.
What are the government application fees for Permanent Residency in the United Kingdom?
Government fees in the United Kingdom for Permanent Residency are approximately £2,885 ILR application fee. Fees are updated periodically — verify current rates on the official immigration website before applying.
Can my spouse or partner work in Canada if I hold a Permanent Residency?
PR status — full and unrestricted work rights in Canada
How long does it take to qualify for permanent residency via Permanent Residency in Canada?
Most applicants become eligible for permanent residency in Canada after approximately 1 years of continuous residence under a qualifying Permanent Residency. Employment continuity and absence periods can affect eligibility.
Which country — Canada or the United Kingdom — offers a faster path to citizenship via Permanent Residency?
Canada reaches citizenship eligibility in approximately 3 years after gaining PR, compared to 6 years in the United Kingdom. Both pathways require meeting language or civics requirements.
Data verified 2026-05-21 · Sourced from official government websites. Always verify fees and deadlines directly.