Canada Visa – Permanent – Express Entry – Provincial Nominee

1. What is Canada’s Express Entry program?


Canada’s Express Entry program is an online immigration system that manages the selection and processing of economic immigrants to Canada. It was introduced in 2015 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as a way to attract highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the Canadian economy. The program uses a points-based system to assess candidates and invites them to apply for permanent residency based on their age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. It covers three main federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Provincial nomination programs also use Express Entry as part of their selection process.

2. Am I eligible to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry?

Yes, if you meet the minimum eligibility requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program and have a valid Express Entry profile, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.

3. How do I know which immigration program I am eligible for?
Your eligibility depends on a variety of factors including your age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and other personal and professional qualifications. You can use the Come to Canada tool on the Government of Canada website to determine which immigration programs you may be eligible for.

4. Can I apply for permanent residence through Express Entry as a skilled worker without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply through the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class without a job offer. However, having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer may increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.

5. How long does it take for an express entry application to be processed?
The processing time for applications through Express Entry varies depending on several factors such as the number of applications received, completeness of application, and whether additional documents or information are required. Generally, most applications are processed within six months.

6. Can I include my spouse/partner and children in my application for permanent residence through Express Entry?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. They will need to meet eligibility requirements and undergo medical and background checks as well.

7. Can I update my express entry profile after submitting it?
Yes, you can edit or update your express entry profile at any time before receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you can only make certain changes such as adding additional work experience or updating your language test results.

8.You may also want to ask about:

– The point system used in Express Entry
– What documents are required for an Express Entry application
– The processing fees for Express Entry
– How to improve your chances of being selected from the Express Entry pool

3. What are the requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP. under Express Entry?

To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry, a candidate must meet the following requirements:

1. Meet the minimum eligibility criteria: The first step is to ensure that you meet all the basic requirements for the FSWP. You must have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled position within the past 10 years, have at least a Canadian high school diploma or credential equivalent, and demonstrate proficiency in English or French.

2. Obtain a language proficiency test result: You will need to take an approved language test, such as IELTS or CELPIP for English or TEF for French, and achieve a minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all four language abilities (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).

3. Have your foreign education assessed: You will need to get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved organization to prove that your foreign education is equivalent to a completed Canadian secondary school (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree.

4. Score sufficient points on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS): You will be assigned points based on factors like age, education, work experience, language ability, and other adaptability factors. To be considered for permanent residence under FSWP, you must score a minimum of 67 out of 100 points on the CRS.

5. Have enough settlement funds: To demonstrate your ability to support yourself and your family once you come to Canada as a permanent resident, you will need to show proof that you have enough money set aside.

6. Register with Job Bank (if applicable): Only applicants who do not already have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer must register with Job Bank. Once registered on Job Bank and evaluated by its system against Canada’s current labour market needs they may receive an invitation from CIC’s Express Entry system.

7. Create an Express Entry profile: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and meet the eligibility criteria for FSWP, you can create an Express Entry profile. This is a step where you will provide your personal and professional information, including your language test results and Educational Credential Assessment.

8. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Based on your CRS score, candidates with the highest ranks within the pool will be issued an ITA during each round of invitations. Once you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

9. Complete medical and security checks: To become a permanent resident of Canada, applicants must undergo medical exams and security checks.

10. Submit your application for permanent residence: After receiving your ITA, you must submit a complete application for permanent residence within 60 days through the online portal to be considered for the final decision.

11. Wait for a decision: After submitting your application and completing all necessary steps, you will need to wait for the government’s decision regarding your permanent residence status. If approved, you will receive confirmation as well as instructions on how to complete the landing process in Canada.

4. How do I calculate my Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS. score for Express Entry?

There are six factors that contribute to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry. These include:

1. Core human capital factors: This includes your age, education, official language proficiency, and work experience.

2. Spouse or common-law partner factors: If you have a spouse or common-law partner accompanying you, their education, language proficiency, and work experience can contribute to your CRS score.

3. Skill Transferability factors: Your qualifications and experience in areas such as education, skilled work experience, language proficiency, and arranged employment in Canada can increase your CRS score.

4. Additional points: You can also earn additional points for factors such as having a sibling living in Canada or having French language proficiency.

5. Provincial Nomination: If you receive a provincial nomination from a Canadian province or territory through an Express Entry-aligned program, you will automatically receive 600 points added to your CRS score.

6. Job offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can increase your CRS score by either 50 or 200 points depending on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code of the job.

To calculate your CRS score, you can use the online tool provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You will need to enter information about your age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and any other applicable factors to receive an estimate of your CRS score.

5. Can I improve my CRS score to increase my chances of being selected from the pool?


Yes, there are several ways to improve your CRS score. Some strategies include:

1. Language proficiency: Improve your language skills in English or French, as it can significantly increase your CRS score.

2. Education: Pursue further education or obtain a higher degree from a Canadian institution to gain additional points.

3. Work experience: Gain relevant work experience in a high-demand field in Canada to increase your CRS score.

4. Job offer: Obtain a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, which can give you additional points towards your CRS score.

5. Provincial nomination: Apply for a provincial nomination from one of the provinces in Canada, as it gives you an additional 600 points towards your CRS score.

6. Consider applying with a spouse or common-law partner: If eligible, including your spouse or common-law partner on the application can increase your total CRS score.

7. Submitting updated profile information: Update your profile regularly with any changes such as work experience, education, or language proficiency to potentially increase your CRS score.

However, it is important to note that meeting the minimum required CRS score does not guarantee selection from the Express Entry pool. The final decision lies with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is based on overall program demand and other factors such as quotas for specific occupations or provinces.

6. What is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP. and how does it differ from Express Entry?


A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a Canadian immigration program that allows participating provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on their specific economic and labor market needs.

PNPs differ from the Express Entry system in several ways:

1. Application process: In the PNP, applicants must apply directly to the specific province or territory they are interested in, while in Express Entry, applicants create an online profile and may be invited to apply for permanent residence by any of Canada’s provinces or territories.

2. Eligibility criteria: PNPs have their own unique eligibility requirements, which may differ from the federal requirements for Express Entry. For example, some PNPs require applicants to have a job offer from a local employer, while others may require a certain level of work experience or language proficiency.

3. Selection process: PNPs have their own selection procedures and criteria for nominating individuals for permanent residence, which can vary among provinces and territories. In contrast, Express Entry has a points-based system where candidates are ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills.

4. Processing time: The processing time for PNP applications can vary significantly depending on the specific program and province/territory. In Express Entry, most complete applications are processed within six months.

5. Temporary vs permanent residence: While PNPs directly lead to permanent residence status in Canada, Express Entry candidates initially receive invitations to apply for permanent residence but may first need to obtain temporary resident status (work permit or study permit) in order to move to Canada.

In summary, PNPs are designed to address specific economic and labor market needs of individual provinces/territories while also contributing to Canada’s overall immigration goals. On the other hand, Express Entry is a streamlined system that manages applications under three federal immigration programs – Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.

7. Which provinces in Canada have their own PNP streams?


All provinces in Canada have their own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. These are:

1. Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
2. British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
3. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
4. New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
5. Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
6. Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
7. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
8. Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
9. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

In addition to these, the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut also have their own PNP streams under the territorial nominee program.

Note: Quebec is not included in this list as it has its own immigration system separate from the federal government’s programs.

8. How do I apply for a provincial nomination through a PNP stream?


To apply for a provincial nomination through a PNP stream, you will generally need to follow these steps:

1. Determine your eligibility: Each PNP stream has its own set of eligibility criteria. Research the requirements for the stream you are interested in to make sure you meet all the necessary criteria.

2. Apply to the province: You will need to submit an application to the specific provincial government where you wish to immigrate. This application process will vary depending on the province and the stream you are applying for.

3. Prepare supporting documents: You will usually be required to provide various supporting documents, such as proof of education, work experience, language proficiency, and other documents that demonstrate your eligibility.

4. Wait for an invitation or nomination: After submitting your application and supporting documents, you may receive an invitation or nomination from the province if they determine that you meet their selection criteria.

5. Complete federal immigration requirements: Once you have received an invitation or nomination from a province, you will need to complete all necessary federal immigration requirements, including medical exams and background checks.

6. Submit your permanent residence application: If approved by both the province and federal government, you can then submit your application for permanent residence.

7. Attend a visa interview (if applicable): Some PNP streams require applicants to attend a visa interview either in person or by video conference before a final decision is made on their applications.

8. Receive your permanent resident status: If your application is approved, you will receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), which allows you to become a permanent resident of Canada.

Each provincial nominee program may have slightly different processes and requirements, so it’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided by each province when applying through their PNP streams.

9. Are there any specific requirements or criteria for each province’s PNP streams?


Yes, each province’s PNP streams may have specific requirements or criteria that applicants must meet in order to be eligible for nomination. These requirements and criteria may vary depending on the province and the specific stream an applicant is applying for. Some common requirements and criteria may include:

– Having a valid job offer from an employer in the province (for some streams)
– Meeting minimum language proficiency requirements in English/French
– Having a certain level of education, work experience, or skill set (varies by stream)
– Demonstrating ties to the province through previous work or study experience, family connections, etc.
– Meeting health and character requirements
– Having sufficient settlement funds
– Meeting age requirements (some streams target younger applicants)
– Committing to living and working in the province for a certain period of time after obtaining permanent residency

It’s important to thoroughly research the specific requirements and criteria for the PNP stream you are interested in before submitting your application.

10. Can I apply for both Express Entry and a PNP at the same time?


Yes, it is possible to apply for both Express Entry and a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) at the same time. However, you will need to meet the eligibility criteria and requirements for each program separately. If you receive a nomination through the PNP, you can use it to boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through Express Entry. It’s important to note that receiving a nomination does not guarantee an ITA, as other factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency also play a role in your CRS score and selection for an ITA.

11. Is there an age limit for applying for permanent residence through Express Entry or a PNP?

There is no age limit for applying for permanent residence through Express Entry. However, some provinces may have age restrictions for certain programs under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). It is important to carefully check the eligibility criteria for any PNP program you are interested in before applying.

12. How long does it take to get permanent residence through Express Entry or a PNP stream?

The length of time it takes to obtain permanent residence through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream can vary greatly depending on various factors, such as the applicant’s qualifications, the demand for their occupation, the processing times of the specific program, and any delays in submitting required documents or attending interviews.

For Express Entry, once an individual receives an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence, they have 60 days to submit their application. The government aims to process complete applications within six months.

For a PNP stream, the processing time also varies depending on the specific program and province. Some provinces may have faster processing times than others. Additionally, there may be additional steps such as obtaining a provincial nomination before applying for permanent residence through a PNP stream.

In general, it can take anywhere from six months to over a year to obtain permanent residence through Express Entry or a PNP stream. It is important for applicants to regularly check for updates on their application status and respond promptly to any requests from immigration authorities.

13. Can I bring my family members with me when I immigrate to Canada through Express Entry or a PNP stream?


Yes, you can bring your immediate family members with you when immigrating to Canada through Express Entry or a PNP stream. Immediate family members include your spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, and sometimes parents or other dependent relatives. It is important to note that there may be additional eligibility requirements and documentation needed for family members to accompany you.

14. Do I need a job offer to be eligible for permanent residence through Express Entry or a PNP stream?


Yes, you will need a job offer to be eligible for permanent residence through both Express Entry and some Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. The Canada Express Entry system has three main categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Class, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Class. Each category requires a different level of education, work experience, and language proficiency. In order to qualify under the Federal Skilled Worker Class or the Federal Skilled Trades Class, you must have at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation within the past 10 years. For the Canadian Experience Class, you must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years.

Additionally, many PNP streams also require applicants to have a valid job offer from an employer located in that province or territory. This is because PNPs are designed to address specific economic needs and labor shortages within each province or territory. Therefore, having a job offer in your intended province or territory can significantly increase your chances of being selected for nomination.

However, there are some PNP streams that do not require a job offer for eligibility. These streams typically target international students and entrepreneurs who wish to settle in a particular province or territory.

In summary, while not all pathways to permanent residence require a job offer, having one can greatly improve your chances of being selected for either Express Entry or PNP programs. It is important to research all available options and determine which program would best suit your qualifications and goals.

15. What documents do I need to submit with my Canadian visa application, including proof of funds and education credentials?


The specific documents required for a Canadian visa application vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your personal circumstances. However, in general, you will need to submit the following:

1. Required forms: You will need to complete and submit the appropriate application forms for your visa type, including the IMM 1294 Application for Study Permit.

2. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry into Canada.

3. Two photos: You will need to provide two identical passport-sized photos that meet specific requirements outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

4. Proof of financial support: You will need to provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses while in Canada. This can include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship award letters.

5. Educational credentials: You may be asked to provide transcripts or diplomas from any previous education institutions you have attended.

6. Language proficiency: If you are required to take an English or French language proficiency exam, such as the IELTS or CELPIP, you will need to include a copy of your test results with your application.

7. Proof of employment: If you are employed in your home country, you may be asked to provide proof such as a letter from your employer stating your job position and salary.

8. Medical exam: Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay in Canada, you may be required to undergo a medical examination by a designated physician approved by IRCC.

9. Police certificates: If you have lived in certain countries for more than six months within the past ten years, you may be asked to provide police certificates from those countries as proof of good character.

It’s important to note that additional documents may also be requested during the application process depending on your individual circumstances and the visa office processing your application

16. What is the minimum language proficiency requirement for applying under Express Entry or a PNP stream?


The minimum language proficiency requirement for applying under Express Entry or a PNP stream is CLB 7 (Canadian Language Benchmark) in all four language abilities: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This is equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0 for writing and speaking, and 6.0-7.5 for reading and listening. However, different programs may have different language requirements, so it is important to check the specific requirements for the program you are applying to.

17. How can I improve my language skills if they do not meet the minimum requirements?

There are several ways to improve your language skills if they do not meet the minimum requirements:

1. Take classes or lessons: Consider enrolling in a language course at a local community college or language institute to get structured instruction and practice.

2. Language exchange programs: Find someone who speaks the language fluently and is willing to help you improve in exchange for help with their own language.

3. Practice with native speakers: Look for opportunities to practice speaking with native speakers, such as joining conversation groups, attending cultural events or volunteering in communities where the language is spoken.

4. Online resources: There are many online resources available for learning a language, such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone. These can be used as supplements to traditional learning methods.

5. Immersion programs: Consider participating in an immersion program where you will be fully immersed in the language and culture for a period of time.

6. Read and listen to materials in the target language: Start by reading children’s books or listening to podcasts or music in the target language. As you progress, you can move on to more advanced materials.

7. Set realistic goals and practice consistently: Make a plan for yourself that includes regular study times and specific goals to achieve within a timeframe.

Remember that improving your language skills takes time and consistent effort, but with dedication and determination, it is possible to meet and exceed the minimum requirements.

18. Will having work experience in Canada increase my chances of obtaining permanent residence?


Yes, having work experience in Canada can increase your chances of obtaining permanent residence, as it shows that you have adapted to the Canadian work culture and have established connections in the country. It may also make you eligible for certain immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs. However, work experience alone is not a guarantee of permanent residency. Other factors such as education, language proficiency, and meeting eligibility requirements for specific programs also play a role in obtaining permanent residence in Canada.

19. Is there an application fee for Express Entry and PNPs, and how much is it?


Yes, there is an application fee for both Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The fee for the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry is CAD $825 per adult applicant and CAD $225 per dependent child. The fee for the Provincial Nominee Program varies by province.

20. Are there any changes to immigration policies under new political leadership in Canada?


There have been some changes to immigration policies under new political leadership in Canada, specifically under the current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government. These changes include:
1. Increase in target for new permanent residents: The Liberal government has increased the target for new permanent residents to 330,000 per year by 2020.
2. Changes to Express Entry system: The Express Entry system, which manages applications for economic immigration programs, has been revised to give more points to applicants with Canadian education and work experience.
3. Openness towards refugees: The Liberal government has made commitments to resettle more refugees, with a focus on privately sponsored refugees.
4. Removal of conditional permanent residence rule: In October 2017, the conditional permanent residence rule was removed, meaning that sponsored spouses no longer have to live with their sponsor for two years before receiving full permanent resident status.
5. Prolonged validity of Work Permits: As of December 2016, foreign workers employed under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program can benefit from a maximum validity period of two years for initial permits and up to three years for subsequent permits.
6. Fast-tracking citizenship applications: The Liberal government has reduced the wait time for citizenship applications from four years down to three.
7. Re-opening family reunification programs: The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship program was re-opened in January 2019 after being paused since 2017. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for immigration.
Overall, the Liberal government’s immigration policies have focused on increasing numbers of newcomers while also making it easier for them to obtain permanent residency and citizenship.