Published November 14, 2026 · Video testimonial from our client · Every case is different and results depend on each person’s situation.
Summary: how did Fernando go from tourist to Canadian citizen?
Fernando came to Canada from Mexico in late 2015 / early 2016 as a tourist, planning to stay a year and then travel the world. He found work in construction, an employer supported his work permit, he extended his permits several times, became a permanent resident and, ten years later, received his citizenship. His main message: there are no shortcuts; you have to prepare and do things right the first time.
What was it like arriving in Canada as a tourist?
He came with a friend who soon went back to Mexico. That’s when the hard part started: feeling alone and having to decide whether to stay.
The first year everything was rosy, the second year was like “oh boy,” and the third like “here we go again.” But you find the beauty in every situation.
Fernando (translated from Spanish)
Why does your network matter so much?
For Fernando, being open to meeting people changed everything: a single conversation could lead to an apartment or a job. That’s also how he found us: the company he worked for already knew Linda and referred him directly.
The transparency they had with me from the start, the confidence, being direct: this can be done and this can’t.
Fernando (translated from Spanish)
How did he go from sweeping floors to crane operator?
He started at the bottom in a large construction company, even though he studied financial administration in Mexico. Being bilingual opened doors: the company invested in his training and, after years of work, he became a crane operator.
At one point they told me: you’ll never get up in that crane. And here we are, crane operator.
Fernando (translated from Spanish)
How did he get permanent residence?
Fernando qualified under a temporary pathway known as TR to PR, which opened for a short time for people already in Canada. The key was that he was already prepared: he had his English test, his educational credential assessment (ECA) and his experience letters when the opportunity came. Programs like that tend to fill quickly, and anyone who isn’t ready misses out.
They explained how things were, with very clear instructions: you need this and this by this date.
Fernando (translated from Spanish)
What changed with PR and with citizenship?
Permanent residence gave him security: no more extensions or work permits, and even employers saw him differently. Citizenship feels like a new chapter: today his brother also lives in Canada and Fernando just became an uncle. For citizenship, IRCC requires at least 1,095 days of physical presence in the last 5 years, among other requirements.
Can you do the process on your own?
Yes, you can do it alone, but it takes much longer. And since there are no shortcuts, people who do it alone often try shortcuts and then complain. I recommend getting help from advisors.
Fernando (translated from Spanish)
No application is 100% guaranteed. What you can control is preparing well and starting with the right information.
Lessons from Fernando’s story
- Decide early: Fernando says it could have taken less time if he had decided sooner.
- Prepare your English test, credential assessment and experience letters before the opportunity appears.
- Build your network: one conversation can open a door.
- Be willing to start at the bottom and learn everything you can.
- Don’t look for shortcuts: do it right the first time.
Already in Canada and want to stay?
Review your work permit, permanent residence or citizenship options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change from visitor to worker inside Canada?
It depends on your situation and current IRCC rules. The rules for changing status inside Canada have changed over the years, so review your case with an authorized representative.
Is the TR to PR pathway still open?
No. It was a temporary pathway. Today there are other programs, such as Express Entry and provincial programs, and IRCC announced a one-time measure for 2027 for people already in Canada, whose criteria have not been published yet.
How long do I need for citizenship?
At least 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada in the 5 years before you apply, plus other IRCC requirements.
Want us to review your case?
Book a consultation or message us on WhatsApp.
