Canada currently has a multi-year immigration plan and welcomes applications for permanent residence from persons who can bring skills that will benefit the economy and community. There are more than 100 possible programs for Canadian immigration, and it is essential that candidates use the method most likely to be successful.
The main immigration pathways are split into six groups as follows:
- Skilled Worker- the skilled worker programs are aimed at persons with skills that will be beneficial. Eligibility for these programs will be determined by an individual’s experience, education, age, and other factors.
- Family Class Sponsorship- immigrants who have family already permanently resident in Canada can be sponsored for immigration.
- Investors and Entrepreneurs – Canada is open to immigration applications by persons with business experience and those with significant net worth who may be interested in setting up a business in Canada.
- Canadian Experience Class – persons who have studied in Canada and gained a recognized qualification, or those who have worked in the country on a temporary workers visa can apply for permanent residence through this route.
- Quebec Experience Class – Quebec is unique among the Canadian provinces in having its own set of immigration programs specific to the region. Any applicants intending to live and work in Quebec must apply using these pathways. The programs cover those who have worked or studied in Quebec also.
- Provincial Nominee – each province can nominate candidates whom it believes brings valuable skills to the province via the Provincial Nominee Program. These are run by the government of the province although the federal government has the final word.
Free Assessment and Express Entry
The first step in applying for permanent residence in Canada is to take the free online assessment. If eligible, it is important to understand the Express Entry system. The Canadian Government is keen to see skilled and professional people – and their families where applicable – settle in the country to aid the growing economy.
The Express Entry system applies to most of the main immigration programs. The potential immigrant is required to create a profile online. This is submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is scored using a system called Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS uses several factors covering the individual’s situation, their experience and education, language skills and more. The highest scorers are put into the Express Entry pool.
Every few weeks candidates are drawn from the pool and issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA). At this point they complete the entry forms and supply all relevant documentation. The government aims to complete the application progress and grand permanent residence within 6 months.
There may be differences in visa requirements to travel to Canada for some foreign nationals, and details will be available from the Canadian immigration office in the applicant’s home country.
As Canada is looking at an ongoing immigration plan for skilled workers, professionals, and their families, interested applicants are advised to use the available resources to determine the best immigration plan for their individual circumstances.