The world of immigration can be overwhelming at times, more so when moving to a new country. If you are a citizen of Pakistan looking to make Canada your new home, it would be quite instrumental in your case to know how to obtain permanent residency using the Express Entry Canada method. This blog post intends to provide you with a clear, detailed guide on Express Entry Canada and how this system may lead you to permanent residency in Canada.
What is Express Entry Canada?
Express Entry Canada is a fast-track system for immigration to Canada, developed by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence. The system is designed to choose and select the best-skilled workers to immigrate to Canada, based on their ability to settle and integrate into Canadian society and the economy.
How Does Express Entry Canada Work?
Express Entry Canada is a points-based system using the Comprehensive Ranking System where applicants are ranked against each other in several factors such as:
- Age
- Education
- Work Experience
- Language Proficiency
- Adaptability
Each of the factors contributes to your CRS score, which in turn can determine how highly you are ranked in the pool of candidates. A higher score will make you more likely to receive an ITA for permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements for Express Entry
To be eligible to enter the Express Entry pool, candidates must at a minimum meet the following requirements. The following factors are primarily included among these:
Work Experience
You must have at least one year of full-time, continuous work experience in a skilled occupation. Work experience has to belong to the occupation designated under the NOC system.
Language Proficiency
You need to demonstrate proficiency in one of two official languages, English or French. This will be demonstrated by passing a language test approved by the government of Canada; in the case of English, for example, an IELTS, and for French, TEF.
Education
Requires educational credentials from an accredited institution. If you have obtained your education outside Canada, then you must get an Educational Credential Assessment report to show that your qualifications are at par with the Canadian standard.
Health and Character
You and your family members need to pass medical examinations and police character certificates that show you enjoy good health without any criminal record.
Key Express Entry Streams
It has three basic programs: Express Entry includes three basic streams for various kinds of skilled workers.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
This program is aimed at persons with work experience in managerial, professional, or technical occupations. Candidates are assessed according to the FSWP selection criteria, which include age, education, and work experience.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Skilled tradespersons must have a minimum of two years of full-time work experience in a trade occupation, and either have a valid job offer or obtain a certificate of qualification in that same trade from a Canadian assessing authority.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The CEC is designed for those who already have work experience in Canada. It would work best for temporary foreign workers or international students who have studied in Canada and have gained relevant work experience.
The Process of Applying through Express Entry
Several steps are to be followed in the application process for Express Entry:
Determine Your Eligibility
The candidate has to first check his or her eligibility for at least one of the Express Entry streams. You must calculate your potential score using the Comprehensive Ranking System calculator.
Create an Online Profile
Create an online profile and submit it to the Express Entry system. It will capture information about your qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other details. You will then be provided with a CRS score based on this information.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If you have a high enough CRS score, you will potentially receive an ITA during one of the periodic draws by IRCC. If you are invited to apply, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency.
Submit Your Application
Provide all the necessary documents, such as proof of work experience, language test results, and educational credentials. Your application will then be assessed, and you may be asked for an interview or to supply additional supporting information.
Wait for a Decision
The processing time varies in the Express Entry, and you will be notified of the decision when your application has been processed. If selected, you will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence, COPR, after which you can start making plans to move to Canada.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in Canada
Various benefits are associated with getting permanent residency in Canada. Among these are the following:
Access to Social Services
As a permanent resident, you will be entitled to Canada’s healthcare system, social services, and public benefits.
Work and Study Opportunities
You can live, work, or study anywhere you wish in Canada. Other benefits you will be entitled to include numerous employment opportunities and educational programs.
Pathway to Citizenship
Permanent residency in Canada is the foremost step toward getting Canadian citizenship. You can get all the additional rights and privileges of a citizen after satisfying the residency criteria by applying for citizenship.
Family Sponsorship
You can sponsor family members to join you in Canada, thereby reuniting with your family.
Tips for Enhancing Your Express Entry Profile
To increase your chances of getting an ITA, consider the following tips:
Improve Your CRS Score
Boost your CRS score by getting higher qualifications, more work experience, or better language proficiency. Higher scores mean a higher chance of getting invited to apply.
Secure a Job Offer
A genuine offer of employment in Canada can greatly enhance your CRS score. Seek job opportunities and even seek out a Canadian employer who will network.
Obtain Provincial Nomination
Some provinces offer Provincial Nominee Programs that could enhance your Express Entry profile. A provincial nomination is worth extra points, boosting the likelihood of being drawn to an ITA.
Conclusion
Whereas the full cycle of the Express Entry system and becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a bit of a challenging task, much preparation and knowledge of the requirements in mind can increase your chances of success. Be eligible, work on improving your CRS score, and follow through the application steps, and you will be that much closer to realizing your dream of making Canada your new home.
If ever you have any questions or doubts regarding your Express Entry application, do not hesitate to seek advice from an immigration expert who can help guide you on the process to ensure you are well-prepared for every step involved.
