This update is part of the Express Entry draws hub, with the Express Entry guide. Haitians facing displacement from the United States can consider Canada as a destination for permanent residence. Canada's Express Entry system offers a potential six month pathway, prioritizing French speakers. This system processes over 100,000 permanent residents annually. Approximately 78 percent of applications were processed within six months or less between August 2025 and July 2026. Candidates must intend to settle in Canada outside Québec.

Displaced Haitian nationals can pursue permanent residence through Express Entry. The process involves meeting minimum requirements for programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, passing a government authorized language test, and creating an Express Entry profile. Candidates enter a pool and may receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

After receiving an invitation, applicants must complete an immigration medical exam and submit a complete application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Successful applicants typically receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence within about six months. They can then travel to Canada to officially land as permanent residents.

The Federal Skilled Worker Program requires at least one year of skilled work experience within the past ten years and a score of at least 67 points on a 100 point selection grid. Candidates need a minimum language level 7 in French or English and a high school diploma. An Express Entry profile remains in the candidate pool for up to 12 months, with invitation rounds typically held every two weeks.

In 2026, French speakers often received invitations while scoring below the 32nd percentile. Other candidates needed to score within the top 1 or 2 percent to receive an invitation. After receiving an invitation, applicants have a 60 day deadline to submit their permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Permanent resident status grants the right to relocate and settle in any Canadian province or territory. Permanent residents have the same mobility rights, employment rights, and access to social services and government programs as Canadian citizens. After three years of physical presence, permanent residents may apply for Canadian citizenship. Children born in Canada to permanent residents automatically gain Canadian citizenship.

Permanent resident status requires staying in Canada for at least 730 days within every rolling five year period. A permanent resident card is valid for five years and can be renewed. Newcomer services are available for up to six years as of April 1, 2026, and five years starting April 1, 2027.

The Canadian Express Entry system offers a prioritized pathway for French speakers, allowing displaced Haitians from the United States to pursue Canadian permanent residence.