Understanding Canadian immigration terminology can be confusing, especially if you are new to the process or researching your eligibility for permanent residency. One of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Task Immigration is: “What is landed immigrant?” This term often appears on government forms, legal documents, old immigration papers, and even job applications. Many newcomers want clarity, and this guide will explain everything in detail.
The concept of a landed immigrant has deep historical roots in Canada’s immigration system. While the term is still widely used by the public, it has been officially replaced by the modern classification known as a Permanent Resident (PR). However, both terms refer to the same legal status in Canada.
In this long-form, expert-level article, Task Immigration provides a complete breakdown of what a landed immigrant is, what rights they have, how the system has changed over time, and what newcomers should understand if they are navigating the Canadian immigration process.
This resource is intentionally comprehensive so that anyone searching for what is landed immigrant can gain full clarity, understand the full background, and feel confident in their knowledge.
What Is Landed Immigrant? Understanding the Meaning
A landed immigrant is a term historically used in Canada to refer to a person who has been granted permanent resident status. It means that the individual:
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Has completed their landing process in Canada
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Has been officially accepted as a permanent resident
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Has the legal right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
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Has not yet obtained Canadian citizenship
In modern Canadian immigration law, the term “landed immigrant” has been replaced with “Permanent Resident (PR)”, but many people—especially immigrants who arrived before the 2000s—still use the older term.
If someone asks you, “What is landed immigrant?”, the simplest answer is:
A landed immigrant is the same as a permanent resident of Canada.
Why Was the Term Landed Immigrant Used?
The term comes from the process of “landing,” which was the final step in becoming a permanent resident. When an immigrant arrived in Canada, they would physically “land” and complete landing formalities:
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Showing immigration visa
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Verifying identity
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Signing documents
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Receiving proof of permanent residency
This “landing” marked the official start of permanent residency.
Why Does Canada No Longer Use the Term Landed Immigrant?
In June 2002, Canada introduced the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). Under this act, the term “landed immigrant” was replaced with Permanent Resident, which is now the legal and official term.
However, many people still search online for what is landed immigrant, and Canadian forms may still reference the term in certain contexts, leading to confusion.
At Task Immigration, we constantly guide clients through both modern and historical terminology so they understand the full picture.
Rights of a Landed Immigrant (Permanent Resident)
When asking what is landed immigrant, it’s important to understand what rights come with the status. A landed immigrant enjoys almost every right that a Canadian citizen has, with a few exceptions.
Rights Granted to Landed Immigrants
1. Right to Live Anywhere in Canada
You can choose to live in any province or territory.
2. Right to Work in Any Legal Job
No LMIA or work permit required once PR status is granted.
3. Right to Study
Permanent residents pay significantly lower tuition fees than international students.
4. Access to Social Benefits
You may qualify for:
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Healthcare
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Pension plans
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Employment insurance
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Social programs
5. Protection Under Canadian Law
PRs are protected under:
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Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
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Provincial human rights codes
6. Eligibility for Citizenship
After meeting residency obligations, a landed immigrant can apply for Canadian citizenship.
Responsibilities of a Landed Immigrant
Understanding what is landed immigrant also includes understanding responsibilities.
1. Maintaining Residency
You must stay in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) in every 5-year period.
2. Paying Taxes
As a Canadian resident, you must file taxes according to Canadian tax laws, regardless of where your income originates.
3. Respecting Canadian Laws
All residents must abide by federal, provincial, and municipal laws.
4. Keeping PR Status Valid
You must ensure:
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PR card is renewed
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Residency requirements are met
How Does Someone Become a Landed Immigrant?
The process of becoming a landed immigrant involves several steps. Here’s a clear explanation for anyone searching for what is landed immigrant from a practical standpoint.
Step 1 – Apply Under an Immigration Program
Canada has multiple PR pathways:
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Express Entry
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Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
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Family Sponsorship
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Business Immigration
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Refugee status
Each program has different requirements. At Task Immigration, we assist clients at every stage.
Step 2 – Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
This is a crucial legal document confirming you are approved for PR.
Step 3 – Complete the “Landing” Process
Landing can be done:
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At a Canadian airport
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At a border (flagpoling)
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Online via virtual landing (modern system)
Once the landing process is complete, the individual becomes a landed immigrant (permanent resident).
Landed Immigrant vs Permanent Resident – Are They the Same?
This is one of the most common sections people search for when asking what is landed immigrant.
Short Answer: Yes, they mean the same thing.
Landed Immigrant
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Older Canadian immigration term
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Used officially before 2002
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Still used casually today
Permanent Resident
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Modern legal term
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Used in all official documentation
Advantages of Being a Landed Immigrant
1. Freedom to Work and Live Anywhere
PRs have full flexibility across Canada.
2. Access to Healthcare
Public healthcare benefits reduce living costs.
3. Pathway to Canadian Citizenship
One of the strongest benefits of becoming a landed immigrant.
4. Strong Social and Legal Protections
Canada is known for safety and human rights.
5. Family Sponsorship Options
You can sponsor:
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Spouse/partner
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Dependent children
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Parents and grandparents (through special programs)
Disadvantages and Challenges of Being a Landed Immigrant
1. Loss of PR Status If Residency Obligation Not Met
If you stay outside Canada for too long, PR status can be revoked.
2. No Right to Vote Until Citizenship
PRs cannot vote or run for political office.
3. Travel Delays If PR Card Expires
Renewal requires strict documentation.
4. Some Government Jobs Require Citizenship
Due to security restrictions.
Pros & Cons of Being a Landed Immigrant (Permanent Resident)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ability to live anywhere in Canada | Cannot vote or run for office |
| Eligibility for most social benefits | PR card expiration may affect travel |
| Strong pathway to citizenship | Need to meet residency obligation |
| Access to public healthcare | Some federal jobs restricted to citizens |
| Lower tuition fees compared to international students | PR status can be revoked in serious legal cases |
| Legal protections under Canadian law | Long processing times for some PR programs |
| Freedom to work without a work permit | Must file taxes regardless of job location |
| Ability to sponsor family | Citizenship eligibility requires 3+ years of residency |
Historical Background of the Term “Landed Immigrant”
Understanding what is landed immigrant also requires a look at history.
Pre-2002 Immigration System
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Immigrants arriving at ports completed landing
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They received landing documents
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PR cards did not exist until 2002
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People were issued IMM 1000 landing papers
Post-2002 IRPA Era
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New laws improved immigration procedures
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Landed immigrant term replaced with Permanent Resident
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PR card introduced for identification and travel
Impact on Newcomers
Many older immigrants still refer to themselves as landed immigrants, which can cause confusion for new arrivals and job recruiters.
Real-Life Insights From Task Immigration
At Task Immigration, we have helped thousands of applicants navigate the PR process. Here are some real in-depth experiences to help you understand the true meaning of what is landed immigrant in practice.
Experience 1 – The Landing Day
Most newcomers describe the landing day as unforgettable. Whether they land at Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, or Calgary, the process is emotional and exciting.
Experience 2 – Understanding PR Rights
Many clients are surprised by the heavy paperwork, taxes, and responsibilities, but they appreciate the benefits that Canada offers.
Experience 3 – Transition to Citizenship
Most PRs who maintain ties with Canada transition smoothly to citizenship and later help family members immigrate as well.
FAQs – About Landed Immigrant Status
1. What is landed immigrant in Canada?
It is an older term for a permanent resident.
2. Is a landed immigrant the same as a PR?
Yes, both terms refer to the same legal status.
3. Do landed immigrants need a PR card?
Yes. Modern PRs must hold a PR card for travel.
4. When was the term “landed immigrant” used?
It was used officially before 2002.
5. What documents prove someone is a landed immigrant?
IMM1000, COPR, and current PR card.
6. Can a landed immigrant become a citizen?
Yes, after meeting residency requirements.
7. Do landed immigrants have healthcare access?
Yes, they qualify for provincial healthcare.
8. Can a landed immigrant sponsor family?
Yes, depending on eligibility.
9. Can a landed immigrant lose their status?
Yes, if they violate residency rules or commit serious offenses.
10. Why does Task Immigration still use the term?
Because many clients search for it and it helps explain older official documents.