Category Based vs. General Draws: Which Path Should You Choose for Express Entry?

Posted on April 17, 2024April 17, 2024 by Sreejith Leave a Comment

In the world of immigration to countries like Canada, where the demand for skilled workers is high, the Express Entry system has popped up as a popular pathway for individuals seeking permanent residency. However, within this system, there’s a pivotal decision to make: whether to pursue Category Based draws or General Draws. So it is very essential to know about the Express Entry strategies that we need to use nowadays.

Each approach carries its own set of advantages and considerations, making the choice between the two draws a significant one for prospective immigrants. The Canadian government, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is constantly innovating its Express Entry system to attract skilled workers who address labor shortages.

This blog explains the new strategy and helps you decide if it’s the right path for your Express Entry ambitions.

Understanding Express Entry Draws

Before we anatomize the differences between Category Based and General Draws, let’s first understand the basics of how Express Entry draws function. The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Eligible candidates create an online profile detailing their skills, work experience, education, language ability, and other relevant factors. Based on these profiles, candidates are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines their rank within the Express Entry pool.

Periodically, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts draws from the pool, inviting candidates above a certain CRS score to apply for permanent residency. The CRS cutoff score is dynamic, fluctuating with each draw based on factors such as the number of available spots and the quality of candidates in the pool.

Category Based Draws

Category Based draws, as the name suggests, target specific groups or categories of candidates. These categories may include individuals with certain skills, occupations in high demand. The aim of Category Based draws is to address specific labor market needs.

Canada’s Category-Based Express Entry targets skilled workers in six key areas to address labor shortages. Here’s a breakdown of the fields that might issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through category-based draws:

French Language Proficiency: This category targets candidates with strong French language skills, typically requiring a Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of at least 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). This reflects Canada’s commitment to bilingualism.
Healthcare Occupations: If you have work experience in a healthcare field that is facing a shortage in Canada, you might be eligible for an ITA through this category. There’s a specific list of occupations that qualify, typically including nurses, doctors, and personal care workers.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations: This category targets candidates with experience in high-demand STEM fields. There’s another specific list of qualifying occupations, which might include software engineers, data analysts, and engineers of various disciplines.
Trades Occupations: Skilled workers in trade professions are in high demand in Canada. This category might issue ITAs to candidates with experience in designated trades, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrician work.
Transport Occupations: If you have experience operating various transportation vehicles or working in related logistics fields, you might be eligible for an ITA through this category. There’s a specific list of qualifying occupations, which could include truck drivers, bus drivers, or logistics coordinators.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations: This category aims to address labor shortages in the agricultural sector. With a limited list of qualifying occupations, it might target farm workers, butchers, or agricultural equipment operators.

Advantages of Category Based Draws:

Targeted Selection: Category Based draws allow immigration authorities to address specific skill shortages or labor market demands. This targeted approach ensures that candidates with skills in demand have a higher chance of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

The Impact of CRS Score: For draws based on general draw criteria, a high CRS score is typically required. However, even if you have a lower CRS score, if you are eligible for any category-based selection, then there is a possibility to get an invitation if you meet the selection criteria.

Streamlined Processing: By focusing on specific categories, Category Based draws can expedite the processing of applications, benefiting both candidates and the Canadian economy by swiftly filling skill gaps.

Impact on CRS Score Calculation

The CRS cut-off score for category-based draws can fluctuate depending on several factors:

Overall Pool Size: The total number of candidates in the Express Entry pool can affect the cut-off score. A larger pool might push the score higher.
Candidate Ranking: If many candidates within the category have very high CRS scores, the cut-off score might also rise.
Number of ITAs Issued: The number of ITAs IRCC plans to issue can influence the cut-off score.

General Draws

In contrast, General Draws cast a broader net, inviting candidates from various occupations and skill sets based simply on their CRS scores. Unlike Category Based draws, which prioritize specific categories, General Draws aim to maintain a balance between different skill sets and occupations within the immigration pool.

Advantages of General Draws:

Inclusivity: General Draws ensure that candidates from diverse backgrounds and occupations have an equal opportunity to receive invitations to apply for permanent residency. This approach promotes fairness and equity within the Express Entry system.

Flexibility: Candidates with a wide range of skills and experiences can participate in General Draws, providing them with multiple pathways to immigrate to Canada. This flexibility accommodates individuals who may not fall within the scope of Category Based draws.

Comprehensive Selection: By considering candidates based only on their CRS scores, General Draws provide a comprehensive selection process that reflects the overall skill composition and diversity of the Express Entry pool.

Continued Relevance of Express Entry Profiles

Even if you aren’t selected through a targeted draw, maintaining a strong Express Entry profile is crucial. Your profile remains in the pool for consideration in future general draws and potentially future targeted draws that might better match your qualifications. An active Express Entry profile is also necessary for being selected by certain provinces.

Specific Requirements for Each Category

Specific requirements for each category will be clearly outlined by IRCC before each draw. Be sure to stay updated on IRCC announcements to tailor your application strategy. Each targeted draw might have additional requirements beyond a baseline CRS score and a relevant NOC code.

Making the Decision: Which Path to Choose?

When deciding between Category Based and General Draws for Express Entry, several factors come into play, including your occupation, skill set, CRS score. It’s essential to assess your individual circumstances and long-term immigration goals before determining the most suitable path.

If your occupation aligns with categories frequently targeted in Category Based draws or if you have a provincial nomination, pursuing this route may enhance your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Conversely, if you possess a competitive CRS score and your occupation is not specifically targeted, participating in General Draws might offer a viable pathway to immigration.

Ultimately, both Category Based and General Draws serve the overarching goal of fulfilling Canada’s economic and labor market needs while providing opportunities for skilled individuals to contribute to the country’s growth and prosperity. By understanding the distinctions between these two approaches, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your immigration aspirations and maximizes your chances of success in the Express Entry system.

Choose Canapprove By Your Side

Navigating the intricacies of Express Entry, particularly the new category-based draws, can be complex. Regularly monitor IRCC announcements to understand upcoming categories and tailor your application accordingly. Consider seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Express Entry strategies. To maximize your chances of success, consider partnering with an experienced immigration consultant like CanApprove. Our team of experts can assess your profile, identify the best path for your situation (general or category-based draws), and guide you through the entire application process.

With CanApprove’s expert guidance by your side, you can approach Express Entry with confidence, maximize your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply, and ultimately achieve your Canadian immigration goals.

Exploring Future Opportunities: Nursing Prospects in Canada Beyond 2024

Posted on March 12, 2024March 12, 2024 by Sreejith Leave a Comment

Thinking about a nursing career in Canada? This is the right time to invest in one.

Nurses, among the most sought-after professions for the next decade, play a vital role in Canada’s healthcare sector. Looking ahead to the future of nursing in Canada, it’s imperative to navigate the evolving landscape of this noble profession. While 2024 marks a significant milestone, the journey for nurses in Canada extends beyond this point, offering promising prospects on the horizon, particularly for those aiming to immigrate to Canada as a nurse.

In this blog, we are going to discuss nursing profession trends in 2024 and nursing job growth projections.

Current Landscape of Nursing in Canada 2024

Canada’s healthcare system is renowned for its excellence and is supported by a strong nursing workforce. The demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, driven by factors such as an ageing population, advances in healthcare technology, and the need for specialized care.

Let’s talk about the nursing pathway in Canada that will help you to get an idea about your future.

Nursing pathway in Canada

With the Canadian nursing license program, you can facilitate connections with employers, enabling individuals to secure job and pursue opportunities in Canada. Along with a competitive pay scale, you can also bring your spouse and child with you to Canada.

To be eligible for the program, you must have worked as a nurse for at least one year within the past five years.

This is a golden opportunity to settle with your family in Canada.

The Canada government is expecting an influx of nurses in the country to fill the increasing demand for overseas nurses. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities for those who want to work as a nurse in Canada.

Key pathways to immigrating to Canada as a nurse:

Express Entry

Nurses are eligible to apply for Express Entry under either the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) if they meet the program requirements. For the FSW program, candidates must have at least one year of continuous work experience in a skilled occupation within the past 10 years, which can include work experience completed abroad.

Qualified candidates can create a profile in the Express Entry pool, where they are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score out of 1,200. The highest-ranking candidates in the pool are then invited to apply for permanent residence through Invitations to Apply (ITAs).

The Express Entry system, known for its efficiency and effectiveness in managing Canada’s immigration applications for skilled workers, has evolved to include category-based rounds of invitations, where nurses can apply and be selected even with a low CRS score.

One of the key benefits of the Express Entry system is its efficiency. If invited to apply for permanent residence, applicants can have their application processed in as little as six months.

Provincial Nominee Program

Another immigration pathway available for nurses to move to Canada is through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). PNPs are immigration programs managed jointly by provincial and federal governments. Each province in Canada has its own PNP with various streams, but all PNPs ultimately lead to Canadian permanent residence.

Some PNPs are exclusively for candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool. Being nominated through one of these PNPs adds 600 CRS points to your profile, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Many PNPs require candidates to have a connection to the province, such as family residing there or past experience studying or working in the province. Other PNPs focus on addressing skills shortages in the province by accepting skilled workers with experience in high-demand occupations.

Future Trends

Looking beyond 2024, several key trends are expected to shape the nursing profession in Canada. One of the most notable trends is the increasing focus on community and home-based care. As the population ages, there will be a greater need for nurses to provide care outside of traditional hospital settings.

Another trend is the rise of technology in healthcare. Nurses will need to adapt to new technologies such as telemedicine and electronic health records, which will change the way care is delivered and managed.

Opportunities for Growth

Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for nursing in Canada. There will be a lot of opportunities for growth and advancement, with roles available in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health centers.

Key Takeaways

The future of nursing in Canada is bright, with lots of opportunities for growth and advancement.
Nurses will need to adapt to new technologies and care models to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare system.
Continuing education and professional development will be very important for staying current and competitive in the field.

In conclusion

The future of nursing in Canada is full of promise and opportunity. By staying informed and adapting to change, nurses can continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the healthcare landscape for years to come.

Kickstart your nursing career in Canada with CanApprove

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Demystifying the LMIA Work Permit Process for Healthcare Professionals

Posted on March 8, 2024 by Sreejith Leave a Comment

Are you a healthcare professional looking to work in the Great North? Understanding the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) work permit process is crucial for you. Don’t worry, my friend, you’re in the right place! Welcome to our easy-to-understand guide, “Demystifying the LMIA work permit process for healthcare professionals.”

Let’s start with the basics:

What is an LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers may need before hiring foreign workers (TFWs). An LMIA gives employers permission to hire workers who are not Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or work permit holders. Only employers can apply for an LMIA, which is submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

LMIA decisions are either positive or negative. A positive LMIA means there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job of the employer, and no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the same . It shows a genuine labor shortage. A positive LMIA is also called a confirmation letter. A negative LMIA means ESDC believes there are suitable Canadian candidates available.

Why is an LMIA required?

The purpose of the LMIA is to ensure that hiring a foreign worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labor market. It allows foreign workers to work for a specific employer in Canada. The LMIA is a critical step in this process as it assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian job market.

Determining LMIA Work Permit Eligibility

Before you start the application process, you must check if you qualify for an LMIA work permit. The Canadian work permit process can be complex. Knowing this step helps you avoid wasting time on an unsuccessful application.

To qualify for an LMIA work permit for healthcare professionals, you usually need:

An LMIA-approved job offer from a Canadian employer in the healthcare field.
Meet the skills, qualifications, work experience, and language requirements relevant to the job
Medical and criminal background checks are required.

Once you are certain of your eligibility, you can begin the LMIA work permit application process.

Understanding the LMIA Application Process Steps

1️⃣ Employer Application: The first step in the LMIA process is for the employer to apply for an LMIA. They will need to provide detailed information about the job position, including the duties, responsibilities, and salary.

2️⃣ Job Advertisement: In most cases, the employer will need to advertise the job position in Canada for a specified period to demonstrate that there are no qualified Canadian workers available to fill the position.

3️⃣ LMIA Application Review: Once the job advertisement period has ended, ESDC will review the employer’s application and determine whether an LMIA will be issued.

4️⃣ LMIA Issuance: If the LMIA is approved, the employer will receive a positive LMIA, which they can then use to support a work permit application for the foreign worker.

Once an employer has obtained a positive LMIA, the next step for the foreign worker is to apply for a work permit. This process involves using the LMIA approval as supporting documentation in the application.

5️⃣ Work Permit Application: Apply for a work permit with the LMIA approval letter. Submit documents like your job offer, LMIA confirmation, and proof of funds.

6️⃣ Biometrics for LMIA Work Permit and Interview: You need to provide biometrics. Depending on your country of residence, you may also need to attend an interview at the Canadian consulate.

7️⃣ Work Permit Issuance: If the work permit application is approved, the worker receives a work permit and can start working in Canada.

Processing Time and Validity

Understanding the processing time and validity of your LMIA work permit is crucial for planning your move.

Processing Time: The processing time can vary based on factors like your country of residence and the job type. Apply well in advance for a smooth transition.
Validity: LMIA work permits are typically valid for your job contract’s duration. You may be able to extend it if necessary.

Tips for a Successful LMIA Application

Familiarize yourself with the LMIA process, including the requirements and steps involved. This will help you prepare a strong application.
Ensure that the job you are applying for falls under an eligible category for an LMIA.
To ensure you meet all requirements, collaborate closely with an immigration consultant familiar with the LMIA process, like CanApprove.

Wrap-Up

The LMIA work permit process steps can be complex; however, with the right information and guidance, healthcare professionals can successfully navigate it. By understanding the process and following the tips outlined in this blog, you can definitely increase your chances of obtaining an LMIA work permit and pursuing your career goals in Canada.

How can CanApprove help you?

Looking to explore healthcare job opportunities in Canada? Need help with Canada work permit eligibility? Want to apply for a temporary work permit in Canada? Want to apply for a Canadian PR? We have all the answers to your queries, and our experienced Canada immigration consultants are here to assist you. Why wait? Click the link to reach out to us now! https://canapprove.ae/contact-us/

Why should you approach CanApprove for an LMIA work permit in Canada?

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FAQs

1️⃣ What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and how does it affect hiring foreign workers in Canada?

An LMIA is a document needed by Canadian employers who want to hire foreign workers. It’s issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and evaluates if hiring a foreign worker would be good or neutral for the Canadian job market. Employers must show they’ve tried to hire Canadians first but couldn’t, and that hiring a foreign worker won’t harm Canadian wages or working conditions. With a positive LMIA, a foreign worker can apply for a work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

2️⃣ How can employers apply for a facilitated LMIA in Quebec?

Employers in Quebec can apply for a facilitated LMIA through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), operated by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Quebec’s facilitated LMIA process is part of the Agreement for Canada-Quebec Cooperation on Immigration, which allows Quebec to manage its immigration programs within its jurisdiction. Employers in Quebec can apply for a facilitated LMIA by submitting their application to the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI), which works in collaboration with ESDC to process LMIA applications in Quebec.

3️⃣ What are the eligibility criteria for the Global Talent Stream program?

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) program is an initiative by the Canadian government designed to help employers in Canada attract highly skilled foreign workers to fill specialized positions quickly.

To be eligible for the Global Talent Stream program, employers must meet the following criteria:

The position must be classified as a skill type 0 (managerial occupations) or skill level A (professional occupations) or B (technical occupations and skilled trades) according to the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Employers must be referred to the Global Talent Stream by one of the program’s designated referral partners, which include designated employers, industry associations, and other organizations recognized by the government.
Employers must be committed to creating jobs for Canadians and permanent residents, either directly or indirectly, and to transferring knowledge and skills to Canadians and permanent residents.
Employers must be compliant with all Canadian laws and regulations, including those related to employment, immigration, and workplace health and safety.

Canada Updates Express Entry Proof of Funds Criteria For FSWP & CEC Draws

Posted on May 4, 2023May 4, 2023 by Vijay Leave a Comment

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced its yearly update on the revised Express Entry proof of fund requirement which became effective from April 25, 2023.

Any immigrant willing to enter the federal Express Entry pool must disclose the proof of settlement funds to apply for Canadian permanent residency under the Express Entry system.

The announcement also made it clear for the existing applicants in the federal pool to update their proof of funds documents with the latest amounts.

Typically candidates with no Canadian job offer are subjected to furnish the details of the below-tabulated amounts to qualify for an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Total Number of Family Members	Minimum Funds Required in CAD – PREVIOUS	Minimum Funds Required in CAD – CURRENT
One	$13,310	$13,757
Two	$16,570	$17,127
Three	$20,371	$21,055
Four	$24,733	$25,564
Five	$28,052	$28,994
Six	$31,638	$32,700
Seven	$35,224	$36,407
Each additional family member	$3,586	$3,706

Express Entry proof of funds is only applicable to candidates without a job offer in Canada and qualifying for two out of three immigration programs under Express Entry: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Those with a job offer in Canada or qualifying under Canada Experience Class (CEC) are not required to disclose settlement funds.

In case of applicability of tie-break rules, updating Express Entry profiles will not change the date and time of when Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) received the profile. Applicants will keep their previous rank.

What is Express Entry Proof of Funds?

Written proof of settlement funds will have to submit to IRCC after receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

According to the official page, the most important Express Entry proof of funds is an official letter from your bank or financial institution. The letter must typically contain the following:

be printed on the financial institution’s letterhead;
include the institution’s address, phone number, and email;
include your name;
list outstanding debts such as credit card debts and loans; and
include, for each bank and investment account, the actual numbers, the date each account was opened, the current balance of each account, and the average balance for the past six months.

Also, ensure that disclosed funds are readily available at the time of applying for Canadian permanent residence and above the minimum requirement. The disclosed amount cannot be in the form of borrowed funds or equity. In case of being accompanied by your spouse, money could be in a joint account.

Get in touch with our expert consultants to discuss further technicalities unique to your profile.

Express Entry Draws in 2023

In-house immigration consultants at CanApprove see the latest announcement to revise the minimum proof of fund as a build-up to holding the all-program Express Entry draw since 2020.

Canada has held six all-program Express Entry and five program-specific draw so far in 2023. The 2023-2025 annual targets for Express Entry landings (principal applicants, spouses, and dependents) are projected at

82,880 ITAs in 2023
109,020 ITAs in 2024
114,000 ITAs in 2025

To assist PGWP holders, immigration minister Sean Fraser recently announced an 18-month open work permit extension. In this context, the recent extension to Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), and the regularity of all program draws will benefit candidates in the Canada Experience Class (CEC).

Take this free Express Entry assessment to determine your eligibility.

You can also contact CanApprove to know more about Canadian immigration and eligible immigration programs suited to your work & academic profile.

How to extend your Temporary Residence in Canada

How to extend the Temporary Residence status in Canada?

Posted on October 5, 2022 by Sandy Leave a Comment

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) permits a few options that allow temporary residents in Canada to remain in the country while they wait for a decision regarding temporary or permanent status.

For instance, if a temporary resident in Canada applies for a new temporary status, then they don’t need to leave Canada even if their documents expire before IRCC takes a decision. Students, visitors, and temporary foreign employees can preserve their temporary resident status through maintained status in order to remain in Canada until they hear about their new application.

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) may be beneficial for temporary residents who are applying for permanent residency and whose documents are about to expire

Post-Graduation Work Permit cannot be renewed or extended, While some temporary residency permits can be. However, this does not always indicate that these workers are not eligible for another type of work permit.
A temporary Resident Visa (TRV) doesn’t paves way for working or pursuing an academic in Canada. Those applicants may also be eligible to apply for a Visitor Record and be permitted to stay for longer than six months, but it doesn’t enable them to work or study. Let’s look at the programs that help people to stay in Canada, they are:

Work Permits
Study Permits
Post-Graduation Work Permits
Bridging Open Work Permits
Spousal Open Work Permits

Work permit for Temporary Residents

Canada has two broad categories of Work permits, one with a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and the other is LMIA-exempt.

The employer who is in need of a worker should show that they need a foreign worker to fill a vacant position and that’s how the LMIA process. The Employment and Development Services Canada (EDSC) issues the LMIA to the employer and the employer sends a copy of the confirmation letter to the worker. Following this, the worker can apply for a work permit to IRCC.

Most temporary foreign workers have work permits that are LMIA exempt. More than 315,000 work permits from LMIA-exempt, were issued in 2021, which is roughly three times more than the LMIA work permits. To hire through an LMIA-exempt work permit program, Canadian employers should submit the offer of employment through the IRCC’s employer portal.

The LMIA-exempt has open work permits, which let holders work anywhere for any employer in Canada. It also includes work permits issued through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. IEC offers pathways for young people from particular nations who want to gain Canadian experience.

Study Permit for Temporary Residents

If your career and your financial status are viable and endurable, you can very well apply for a study permit to stay in Canada. You can work part-time for 20 hrs during the period of your academics and full-time during your summer and fall breaks. However, first, you need to be admitted to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

There are possibilities to get qualified to remain in Canada after completing your program through the PGWP (if you have never had one before). Additionally, you will be qualified for routes to permanent residency that are for international student graduates.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

This is for international student graduates who completed their post-secondary program at a Designated Learning Institution. It doesn’t tie down the worker to only one employer or occupation and is open to work anywhere he or she wishes.

Study programs that last more than eight months but less than two years could be qualified for a PGWP. International students who successfully completed two-year or longer programs may be qualified for a three-year PGWP.

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

This allows specific permanent residency applicants to stay in Canada over the expiry date of their temporary residence status.

The given are the few programs that are eligible for a BOWP:

Federal Skilled Worker Program
Canadian Experience Class
Federal Skilled Trades Program
Provincial Nominee Program
Quebec Skilled Workers
Agri-Food pilot program

To get into a BOWP applicants need to receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC. But according to their circumstances, they may apply for other work permits.

Did you know if you can apply for 2 Canadian immigration programs simultaneously?

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)

Generally, Spousal sponsorship can be an option if your spouse or common-law partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Spouses and common-law partners in Canada can undergo their immigration process by the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).

This may be available to you if you are applying for sponsorship from within Canada. In-land applicants are those who apply from within Canada. Also, temporary residents’ spouses may get an open work permit.

If it’s possible to convince the government, then their spouse can be enrolled in this program.

To know more about the Canadian immigration pathways, stay in touch with CanApprove. And are you seeking immigration assistance? Fret not! CanApprove is right here…

New Canada NOC 2021 Will Affect Canada Express Entry Eligibility Among Other Programs

Posted on August 4, 2022 by Sandy 1 Comment

Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will switch to the new 2021 version of the NOC system on November 16. As a result, Canada NOC 2021 will affect various immigration programs including Canada Express Entry eligibility.

Presently, Canada is classifying eligible immigrants with relevant work experience. It will be based on NOC 2016 standards, skill types 0, A, or B. Canada NOC 2021 attempts to determine work experience eligibility on the basis of the new Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) system.

Hence, this blog discusses how NOC changes will affect Express Entry candidates.

Impact of NOC 2021 on Canada Express Entry Eligibility

Statistics Canada explains the rationale behind the new TEER system:

Focus on the education and experience required to work in a given occupation.
Accurately capture the skills required in each occupation.

Indeed, the new TEER system classifies all occupations into six categories: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and is equivalent to present Skill level 0, A, B, B, C, and D respectively.

For Instance, let’s look at the implications of the new Canada NOC 2021 on Canada Express Entry eligibility:

CRS implications

In fact, All registered profiles in the federal pool are evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
That is factors in age, education, and work experience, and language proficiency among others.

Also, with the new Canada NOC 2021 coming into force, the points you get for arranged employment will follow the Skill Type/Level update chart.

For example, if you would have received 50 points for arranged employment in Skill Type/Level 0, A, or B, you will still get those points if your NOC is in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Selection factor points for Federal Skilled Worker Program

However, the points you get based on the selection factors for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). It will follow the Skill Type/Level update chart.

This means that if you would have received 10 points for arranged employment in Skill Type/Level 0, A, or B, you will still get those points for arranged employment in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Eligibility criteria	Canadian Experience Class	Federal Skilled Worker Program	Federal Skilled Trades Program
English or French skills	CLB 7 for TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupations; CLB 5 for TEER 2 or TEER 3 occupations	CLB 7	CLB 5 for speaking and listening; CLB 4 for reading and writing
Type/Level of work experience	Additionally, Canadian work experience in an occupation listed in one or more of these NOC TEER Categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3.	Work experience in an occupation listed in one of these NOC TEER Categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, or TEER 3.	Work experience in a skilled trade under key groups of TEER 2 or TEER 3.*
Amount of work experience	One year in Canada in the last three years (either combination of full-time or part-time work).	One year continuous within the last 10 years (combination of part-time, full-time or more than one job in your primary occupation).	Two years within last five years (either combination of full-time or part-time work)
Job offer	Not required.	Not required but you can get selection criteria (FSW) points for having a valid job offer.	A valid job offer of full-time employment for a total period of at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial or federal authority.
Education	Not required.	Secondary education is required. You can get more selection criteria (FSW) points for your post-secondary education.	Not required.

16 new occupations become eligible under TEER

Moreover, A total of 16 occupations including some in the healthcare sector will become eligible for Express Entry, and three will become ineligible.

Read this report for full analysis.

What Should Express Entry Candidates Do?

IRCC recommends Express Entry candidates in the pool as well as those who have not submitted to update profiles with the new Canada NOC 2021:

Candidates who have already submitted their profile but have not received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) will have to update their profile on or after November 16, 2022.

Candidates planning to enter the Express Entry pool on or after November 16 must find their occupation’s code on the latest NOC 2021 list.

Also, Candidates who receive ITAs before November 16 must submit their application using NOC 2016.

Accordingly, Canada Express Entry is the most popular pathway to permanent residency. Despite, the unusual break in all-program nomination draws and reduction in Express Entry targets due to increasing application backlogs, IRCC will get back to annual targets of over 110,000 new immigrants by 2024.

You can book your free appointment with our expert consultants to determine your eligibility for Canada Express Entry programs.

Canada Immigration: More than One Way To Apply for Canada PR in 2022 & Beyond

Posted on January 27, 2022 by Sandy 2 Comments

The million-dollar question still remains, ‘when will IRCC resume regular Canada Express Entry draws?’ Since December 2020, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have not issued Express Entry invitations to Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) candidates. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates have not received invitations to apply for Canada PR since September 2021.

To give you some perspective, Canada Express Entry is the single largest source of foreign immigrants in Canada since its launch in 2015. FSWP is the most preferred economic-class immigration program under the Express Entry. Off-shore candidates with no prior Canadian experience can apply for Canada PR via FSWP. A recent study estimates that nearly 80 per cent of Canada Express Entry candidates fall under the FSWP category. On the other hand, on-shore applicants with at least one year of work experience in Canada qualify for Canada PR through the CEC program. Mostly, recent international graduates qualify for this economic-class program.

So an internal IRCC memo released last week caused speculation and confusion on how the department will manage Canada Immigration in 2022, more specifically Express Entry in 2022 and beyond. IRCC hints at a possible reduction in Express Entry admissions to accommodate other ministerial and departmental priorities.

While we wait for the new Immigration levels plan to be announced by February 14, 2022, this blog aims to leave you with the best possible way to apply for Canada PR in 2022 & beyond.

Canada Express Entry Draws After the Pandemic

Express Entry draws for Canada PR reinvented itself right after the pandemic. IRCC is now focussing on inviting temporary residents to apply for Canada PR. Such candidates either qualified under Canada Experience Class or under any one of the Provincial Nominee Programs.

A departure from the previous Canada Express Entry draws is noticed. IRCC says 42% of invitations in 2020 went to candidates who had Canadian education, up from 28% in 2019.

So, should you plan your higher studies in Canada to easily qualify for Canada PR?

Click here to read our analysis.

All the invited candidates in Canada Express Entry PNP-draw have demonstrated their connection to a province or territory. It is through familial ties, work experience, or study experience in that province or territory. In order to qualify for the CEC program, temporary skilled workers or recent international graduates must have had at least one year of work experience in Canada.

Off-late, IRCC is giving undue preference to PNP candidates even as major Express Entry programs are still suspended. It is mainly to support and realize the immigration goals of the provinces and territories that otherwise would fail. Canada Express Entry draws in 2021 invited nearly 114,431 immigration candidates to apply for Canada PR.

Current Express Entry Backlogs

Canada Express Entry backlogs have grown due to reasons such as previous travel restrictions. IRCC’s focus to transition those already present in Canada to permanent residence has also added to the backlogs.

An estimated 76,000 Express Entry persons will be on inventory at the start of 2022. The number is significantly high and in principle, IRCC may require no new Express Entry “intake” for at least the first half of 2022.

Apply for Canada PR in 2022 & Beyond

Options like Quebec immigration, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) surfaces as the best alternative for permanent residence in Canada.

Quebec has returned to the target of welcoming over 50,000 immigrants in 2022 after four years of cutting immigration by 20 percent. About 65 percent will arrive through economic-class immigration programs. The major advantage here is that Quebec runs its own immigration program independently of the federal government. However, the final say on who gets permanent residency lies with the federal government.

PNPs are a two-step immigration process to Canada. First, you apply to the province or territory, then if you get a nomination you can use it to apply for permanent residence. Get in touch with CanApprove to learn more about your prospects to apply for Canada PR via PNP.

Canada Immigration Made Simple with CanApprove

However, IRCC will not necessarily stop inviting more Express Entry candidates this year since “intakes” and “invitations” are two different metrics. Due to the prolonged nature of this process, IRCC will continue to issue more Express Entry “invitations” in the meantime.

As a certified immigration consultant, CanApprove will not discourage you to enter the federal Express Entry pool now but offer suggestions to apply for Canada PR in 2022.

CanApprove is a certified immigration consultant by the College of Immigration, and Citizenship Canada (CICC). We take immense pride in helping thousands of immigration candidates achieve their dream of immigration abroad for the last two decades.

We now invite you to book your free appointment with us today and plan your permanent residence in Canada.

Want to Know More About the New Changes in WES Process

Posted on January 19, 2022 by Sandy 2 Comments

Want to know what is WES and why is it essential? Also, want to know about the new changes in the WES process? Read this blog to get an idea about what exactly WES is!

World Education Services?

World Education Services (WES) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit social company devoted to assisting foreign students, immigrants, and refugees in the United States and Canada accomplish their educational and employment aspirations. WES evaluates foreign educational credentials, helps immigrant workforce integration, and gives charitable assistance to immigrant-serving organizations. WES has evaluated credentials for approximately three million people from more than 200 nations since 1974. The Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC) has approved WES Canada. It converts foreign academic documents into Canadian equivalents to offer nonbinding advising recommendations.

What kind of WES Evaluation Reports are there?

Document-by-Document Reports and Course-by-Course Reports are the two forms of credential evaluation reports offered by WES. WES certification evaluations are based on validated documents straight from the issuing universities. WES sends documents back to the institutions who issued them for additional verification when necessary.

Document-by-Document Report

Each credential is identified, described, and a Canadian equivalence is provided.

Appropriate for immigration and employment

Detailed Course-by-Course Analysis

Each credential is identified, described, and a Canadian equivalence is provided.

Compiles a list of all topics, including credits, grades, and a computed GPA in Canadian dollars.

Appropriate for higher education admittance, professional licensing, or any other objective that requires a thorough course analysis

All you need to know about the changes in the WES process is mentioned below:

Special Terms for Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Applicants;

Application Deactivation: All applications paid on or after January 1, 2022, and incomplete at WES’ sole discretion shall be termed “inactive” 180 days after the application’s payment date. Once the application is declared inactive, no refunds or credits will be provided. Incomplete applications received after July 1, 2021, but before December 31, 2021, will be allowed a “grace period” to finish them. On July 1, 2022, the grace period will end. Such applications will be declared inactive and non-refundable if they are not completed by that date.

Reactivation of Applications: To reactivate/reopen and continue process applications that have been considered inactive, an additional $50 reactivation fee must be paid. Applications that have been reactivated must be completed within 180 days after the payment date; otherwise, they will be considered inactive. All other Terms & Conditions for completion apply to reactivated applications.

Costs of credential evaluation services;

The ECA application price has increased. The new fee is as follows. Even if you began the application earlier but did not finish it, you may be subject to the additional charge.

Services	Fees (in CAD)
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)	240
U.S. and international courier services (per address)	85
Update a completed evaluation report – Add a new credential	100
Duplicate reports ordered after completed evaluation:	50

All WES applicants will get a new document processing address. The WES mailing address has changed. Documents supporting all U.S. and Canadian evaluation applications will now be accepted at the WES websites. Please complete your WES ECA processes as soon as possible if you’ve not done so.

Permanent Residency Visas, Work Visas, Study Visas, Temporary Visas, and Dependent Visas to Canada are all areas of expertise of CanApprove. We have handled WES Applications and reports for Canada Visa applicants for over a decade. Also, we do ECA process such as ICES, CES, ICAS and IQAS. CanApprove will assist you in making your dreams come true. We’re there whenever you need to connect.

Book your free session with one of our advisors today!

Debate Ends Here: Apply for Canada Visa on Your Own or Through Canada Immigration Consultants?

Posted on January 5, 2022 by Sandy Leave a Comment

If you are a resident in UAE and still wish to settle abroad, Canada must be on your priority list. Here are some of the pathways you can take to apply for Canada Visa. It could lead to Canadian permanent residency – which may eventually make you eligible for citizenship.

The best immigration program will depend on your professional experience and your goals. Here are some of the most recognized and popular programs available to apply for Canada visa:

Express Entry
Provincial Nominee Program
Study in Canada then work (Canada Experience Class)
Canadian work permits (Canada Experience Class)
Family-class sponsorship

Visit our previous blog to learn more about the above-mentioned immigration pathways to Canada.

The good news is that you can apply for Canada Visa all by yourself. All the forms and information required to apply for Canada Visa and/or to immigrate to Canada are available for free on the Canadian government’s official website. Even the fastest immigration programs can take months between the time you apply and the time you land. The application fees are also listed. However, be prepared to incur hidden costs for a language test, a medical exam, and others.

If you follow the instructions in the application guide, you can complete the application form and submit it on your own. If you decide to process your application through Canada immigration consultants, be careful whom you ask for advice.

What can Canada Immigration Consultants do?

explain and give advice on your immigration or citizenship options
help you choose the best immigration program for you
fill out and submit your immigration or citizenship application
communicate with the Government of Canada on your behalf
advertise that they can give immigration or citizenship advice

Can You Trust Canada Immigration Consultants to Apply for Canada Visa?

To work & settle in Canada is a dream of millions. Canada is striving hard to fulfil the dreams of many aspirants with its liberal immigration policies and multiple immigration pathways. Applying for Canada Visa is simple and mostly online which is designed for aspirants to work on their own.

We would like to remind the readers of a similar experience with one of our clients in the recent past.

Alaina Ahmad got her study visa in Canada rejected during the first time that she applied on her own. On approaching CanApprove to apply for Canada Visa for the second time, she got it approved. She is now excited to start her journey at University Canada West, British Columbia.

Watch her video testimonial here.

However, the process for applying for Canada Visa may be intimidating, especially for first-timers. In such cases, you may require professional guidance from certified Canada immigration consultants. There are many genuine Canada Immigration Consultants in the region to guide you throughout the process. A genuine Canada immigration consultant will come good on the following criteria:

Immigration license and certification from the College of Immigration, and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)
Number of years of experience in the industry;
Regional or global presence of the said consultant;
And, of course, a record of successful testimonials from their clients.

CanApprove is one of the best immigration consultants in Dubai. Being a certified Canada Immigration Consultant, we offer a standard immigration support package that includes a free assessment, pre-screening, documentation assistance, review on rejections and appeal guidance, training for embassy interviews, post-landing services like accommodation & more.

Final Verdict

The Government of Canada treats all applications for Canada Visa equally, whether they apply through a consultant or not.

Several aspirants apply for Canada Visa on their own and are subsequently approved each year. However, most may be limited to study visa or permanent residency applications through Express Entry. Application for Canada permanent residency through other economic-class immigration pathways like Provincial Nominee Programs are less explored when applying on their own.

An application for Canada Visa processed through a Canadian immigration consultant will analyze 100+ Canadian immigration programs and suggest suitable immigration programs based on the applicants’ work or academic profile.

Protect yourself from immigration fraud. Fake consultants, out there may scam you. Stay cautious of the following things:

If asked to pay to access the application form and guides.
If asked to provide personal information, financial information, or make a deposit even before you start your application process.
Makes too good to be true immigration deals, or “guarantees” entry into Canada, or “priority processing” of your application.

Getting professional help from experienced Canada immigration consultants like CanApprove will save time by avoiding rejections & eventually be more cost-effective.

Get a free assessment of your immigration profile and find the best pathway to migrate to Canada.

Book your free appointment with CanApprove today!

Tag: Apply for Canada Immigration