Express Entry System
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is one of the most popular and efficient immigration systems for skilled workers looking to move to Canada. It’s a points-based system that ranks candidates based on their skills, work experience, and other factors. Introduced in 2015, Express Entry has streamlined the immigration process, making it faster and more transparent.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must qualify for one of three federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. The basic requirements include:
- Language proficiency in English or French
- Relevant work experience
- Educational credentials
- Sufficient funds to support yourself and your family
Application Process
Creating an Express Entry Profile
The first step is creating an online profile. You’ll need to provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal details.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Your profile is then scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS awards points based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. Additional points can be earned for a valid job offer, a provincial nomination, or Canadian education.
Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score is high enough, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Once you have an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application, including supporting documents.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
What are PNPs?
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) allow individual provinces and territories to nominate immigrants who wish to settle in a particular region. Each province has its own unique program targeting specific needs like labor shortages, investment, or demographic goals.
Different Provincial Programs
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
OINP targets skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs who wish to live in Ontario. The program has various streams, including the Human Capital Priorities Stream and the Entrepreneur Stream.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
BCPNP offers streams for skilled workers, healthcare professionals, and international graduates, focusing on individuals who can contribute to the province’s economic growth.
Other Notable PNPs
Other provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia also have their own PNPs, each with specific criteria and streams.
Application Process for PNPs
The application process generally involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the province of choice, receiving a provincial nomination, and then applying for permanent residency through the federal system.
Family Sponsorship
Who Can Sponsor?
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their relatives to come to Canada as permanent residents. Eligible sponsors can support their spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.
Eligibility for Sponsored Relatives
Sponsored relatives must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as passing medical and background checks and proving their relationship with the sponsor.
Application Process for Family Sponsorship
The process involves two main stages: the sponsor submits an application to become a sponsor, and the relative applies for permanent residence. Both applications are submitted simultaneously and processed together.
Start-Up Visa Program
What is the Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program is designed for immigrant entrepreneurs who have the skills and potential to build innovative businesses in Canada that can create jobs and compete globally.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, you must have:
- A qualifying business
- A letter of support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator)
- Proficiency in English or French
- Sufficient funds to settle and support yourself in Canada
Steps to Apply
Securing a Commitment from a Designated Organization
You need to secure a commitment from a designated organization. This involves pitching your business idea and getting a letter of support.
Meeting Language and Financial Requirements
You must prove your language proficiency through standardized tests and show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
What is the Canadian Experience Class?
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is designed for individuals who have already gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to become permanent residents.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must have:
- At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years
- Proficiency in English or French
- Plans to live outside the province of Quebec
Application Process
Gaining Work Experience in Canada
Your Canadian work experience must be in a NOC skill type 0, A, or B job, and you must have gained this experience while on a valid work permit.
Submitting an Application through Express Entry
CEC candidates apply through the Express Entry system. After creating a profile, you’ll receive a CRS score, and if you rank high enough, you’ll receive an ITA for permanent residence.
Conclusion
Choosing the right path to immigrate to Canada can be a complex decision, but with multiple options available, there’s likely a program that fits your profile. Whether you’re a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, or someone with family in Canada, the dream of becoming a permanent resident can become a reality. Understanding the specifics of each pathway is the first step toward making an informed decision and successfully navigating the immigration process.