Last Updated Jan 24, 2022
Canada is an attractive country for many immigrants. Statista records that during the pandemic, over 200,000 immigrated to the country. While it is a decrease from previous years when over 300,000 immigrants arrived in Canada, it is an increase to the numbers from 20 years ago when 199,170 immigrants arrived.
Immigration is a significant part of Canada’s labour force growth, and according to the government, it accounts for 100 percent of the growth. It is estimated that by 2036, immigrants will make up 30 percent of the Canadian population.
There are various ways for workers to immigrate to Canada. One unique option is the express entry draw.
What is an express entry draw?
Express entry stream is a unique way for skilled immigrants to make their way to Canada. It works by allowing applicants to submit their professional profiles for potential employers. These profiles are then entered into an express entry pool. Immigrants who have career profiles that match what employers are looking for will be offered jobs.
Once applicants have received the job offer, they can submit an application for permanent residency status in Canada. An additional way skilled workers can benefit under this plan is through the provincial nominee program. These are immigrants who were selected by a specific province.
Those who become part of the stream can also be selected for immigration based on a points system. This is where candidates are ranked based on various factors, including
- Level of education
- Language skills
- Work experience
Draws are made every few weeks, and thousands of candidates are given an opportunity to immigrate to Canada each year through the express entry draw. It’s important to note that the express entry option is available to those who live outside of Canada.
Who can be considered for express entry?
The Government of Canada manages four different immigration programs using the express entry process. These include:
Canadian experience class
Skilled workers who have already gained some experience working in Canada can apply. However, the Canadian work experience must have occurred in the last three years. This program is designed for professionals and managers who have worked for at least one year in Canada. Most applicants will need a university or college education to qualify.
Federal skilled worker program
Candidates who have work experience in other countries can apply. Other factors for consideration when applying through the federal skilled worker program include education and language skills. Applicants must have at least one year of continuous employment in their profession over the past decade. This program is designed for those with higher education, such as a university degree or college.
Federal skilled trades program
Those who have a skilled trade and have a job offer or certificate of qualification can also apply through express entry. Candidates must have worked at least two years in their trade over the past five years. That includes any work done inside and outside of Canada.
Provincial nominee program
Candidates can contact the province directly and request nomination or can be nominated by creating an online profile.
How can I enter the express entry draw?
Those who want to be considered for the express entry stream will need to fill in an online profile. Include as many details as possible. Applicants will need to include their education and background, work experience, and language skills.
Documents you’ll need for express entry
The Government of Canada will require you to include information from the following documents:
- Passport or travel document
- Language test results
- Proof of education
- Proof of Canadian job offer
- Provincial nomination (if applies)
- Proof of funds
You may also need additional documents when you’re invited to apply, such as:
- Police certificates
- Medical exams
- Birth certificate
- Use of representative form
- Common-law union form
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce certificate
- Legal separation agreement
- Death certificate
- Adoption certificate
- Photos to confirm your identity
Applicants who meet the preconditions for the program will be placed in a candidate pool. This is not a guarantee that they will be given an invitation to become a permanent resident. However, it allows employers and the province to consider candidates to fill their labour needs.
Workers with the most sought-after skills have the best chance of receiving job offers. So, while you wait for your name to be selected, you can boost your chances if you work on developing the right skills. These can vary from industry to industry, so it’s best to research what abilities employers want in your field.
Those who have a job offer or are selected by a province have the best chance of success with the immigration process.
What happens after a job offer is made?
Once a candidate is offered a job, they will be invited to apply for permanent residency. This is called receiving an invitation to apply or ITA. It is made to candidates with a high-ranking express entry profile and a job offer from a potential employer. Alternatively, ITAs are also made to candidates that have been selected by province or territories of Canada.
They will have 60 days to complete the online application. After the application has been completed, it will go through a Citizenship and Immigration Canada review process. Most applications are completed within six months. Successful candidates will receive a confirmation of permanent residence or COPR.
Why choose Namdev Immigration Services?
We understand how stressful immigrating can be, and we’re here to help. Namdev Immigration Services knows the ins and outs of moving to Canada and how to navigate you through the system. Our founder, Arpinder Singh, went through the immigration process after coming to Canada as a student.
We offer honest, transparent, and trustworthy guidance through the Canadian immigration process. We will be by your side the whole way to answer any questions you have.
If you’re a professional looking to immigrate to Canada, contact Namdev Immigration, and let us help you make your dreams come true.
