Applying for permanent residency in Canada through the Express Entry system is a popular pathway for skilled workers. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Express Entry manages three main immigration programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
To be eligible for one of these programs, you must meet certain criteria, such as:
Work Experience: Relevant work experience in a skilled occupation (usually NOC 0, A, or B).
Language Proficiency: Prove your language skills in English or French (through tests like IELTS or TEF).
Education: Have a valid educational credential (for foreign education, an Educational Credential Assessment or ECA is required).
Other factors: Age, adaptability, and more can also affect eligibility.
2. Create an Express Entry Profile
If you're eligible, you'll need to create an online profile on the Express Entry system. Here's what you'll need:
Personal Information: Including age, education, work experience, and language test scores.
Express Entry Points: Based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points for various factors like education, age, work experience, and language skills. You need to score well to be invited to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
3. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Once your profile is submitted, you’ll enter a pool of candidates. Periodically, Canada holds draws from the pool and issues Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency to the highest-scoring candidates.
Draws: The draws happen regularly, and the CRS cut-off score varies with each draw.
Improving Your CRS Score: You can improve your score by improving your language test scores, gaining more work experience, or securing a job offer in Canada.
4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If you receive an ITA, you'll have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency. This includes:
Complete Forms: You'll need to provide detailed information about your work experience, education, family, etc.
Documents: Submit documents like proof of language test results, police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds (if applicable).
Fee Payment: Pay the required processing fees, which can vary depending on your situation.
5. Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, the Canadian government will process it. You may be asked for additional information or documents during this time. Processing times can vary, but it typically takes about 6 months or longer to receive a final decision.
6. Get Your Permanent Residency
If your application is approved, you'll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable). You’ll need to complete the landing process (enter Canada) to officially become a permanent resident.
Additional Tips:
Job Offers and Provincial Nominees: If you have a job offer or are nominated by a Canadian province, you can gain additional points.
Express Entry Draws: Stay informed about the latest Express Entry draws and trends to understand the CRS score requirements.