So let’s say for whatever reason (from the hundreds that Canada is presenting) you want to move to Canada, here’s our guide to help you go to the land of a thousand dreams.
Canada has many different programs through which one can enter the country including family sponsored, business start-up or investor, refugee, caregiver and express entry amongst many others.
For purposes of ease, we will be covering the express entry system, which is the most preferred amongst residents of the Gulf countries and has some of the shortest waiting periods.
Express Entry Explained
It is a Canadian immigration program in which applicants apply for permanent residency under the following programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
This program targets skilled immigrants. Candidates are selected based on their ability to settle in Canada and contribute to the country’s economy.
Applicants have to meet the minimum requirements of at least one of these programs. The credentials of the applicants will be posted on a government website where immigration officials and potential employers can view the application. They can later approach the candidate if they meet their requirements.
Step 1: Check if you are eligible to apply
You just have to answer a few questions based on which applicants will get to know if they are eligible for this program. This will take about 15 minutes.
At the end of the test, you will be given a reference number. You can use this number later when you build your profile.
Check eligibility here.
Step 2: Fill an online express entry profile
Create an account on the Canadian government’s official website. You will then have to fill in your details on the same website to complete your express entry profile.
Fill the form here.
Step 3: Register with the ESDC Job Bank (Only for those who do not have a valid job offer or a nomination from a province or territory)
This will help connect applicants with potential employers in Canada. If one does not register within 30 days, their express entry profile will expire.
Register here.
Step 4: A ranking system will then rank the applicants
Applicants are given scores out of 1200. Those with the highest scores on the point based ranking system will be issued an invitation to apply.
Step 5: Candidates who have received an invitation to apply will have to apply within 90 days.
This can be done online here.
Step 6: Wait
The majority of applications will be processed within 6 months. If your application fails to make the cut then you can reapply by filling your express entry profile again after a period of 12 months.
