There are currently more than 70 programs available for individuals who want to immigrate to Canada. For that reason, everyone’s path for immigrating to Canada will be unique.
For example, there are many different categories for professionals and workers under which you might qualify for permanent residence in Canada, including the Federal and Quebec Skilled Worker programs, the Provincial Nominee Programs, the Canadian Experience Class, the Quebec Experience Class, and the Federal Self-Employed program. Canada also offers a number of Family Class Sponsorship programs, whereby Canadian citizens and permanent residents may sponsor family members for Canadian immigration.
The process for individuals, other than those in the family class, starts with the Express Entry (EE) system. The EE process involves two stages. First, individuals will submit an online profile outlining details of their skills, work experience, language ability, education and other details that will help in assessing eligibility. Those individuals who meet the criteria for one of the federal immigration programs are then entered into a pool with other eligible candidates. Second, candidates in the pool are ranked against one another using a point-based system. Points are awarded based on the information provided in the candidate’s online profile. Those candidates with the highest scores will be issued an “invitation to apply” (ITA). Upon receiving an ITA, a candidate will have 90 days to file their application for permanent residence in Canada.
All candidates in the EE pool will be given (or assigned) points (maximum of 1200) that take into consideration the following factors:
- Skills and work experience (up to 500 points)
- Spouse or common-law partner factors (such as their language skills and education -up to 40 additional points but still a maximum of only 500 points)
- Skills transferability (including education and work experience that, when combined, improve your chances of being employed and earning a higher wage – up to 100 points)
- Additional 600 points for those with a nomination from a province or territory
- Additional 50 points for arranged employment (or 200 points for certain managerial jobs)
We can help you decide what options are best for you. For a detailed assessment of your immigration options, contact our Canadian Immigration Lawyers for a consultation by emailing us or by calling 416-847-3347.
