Are you a skilled worker looking to immigrate to Canada for the new year? Then getting up to date with the Express Entry program is a good idea.
What’s Express Entry?
The Express Entry program is Canada’s way of attracting the best and brightest around the world into its borders. For skilled workers looking to permanently settle in the nation, the program can provide you with a more streamlined way to get into the country.
Are There Any Recent Changes I Should Know About?
In 2021, the program focused almost entirely on Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program applicants. That means those who had work experience in Canada or those nominated by a specific province in Canada for the program. It’s currently unclear whether 2022 will be similar, as the liberal government has publicly stated intent to work through the immigration backlog and expand the Express Entry program. And while the current way skilled workers’ eligibility gets determined is through the NOC classification system, this is scheduled to change sometime this year, as they introduce the new TEER system, which could negatively impact certain workers that would currently qualify.
How Do I Know if I Qualify?
If you’re wondering whether your work experience qualifies you for the program, you’ll need to take a look at the Canadian “National Occupational Classification”, or NOC. Generally though, if you’ve held a managerial position, a job that requires a degree, or one that required an apprenticeship, then you’ll likely meet this requirement. You’re also going to need to provide proof of both your education and financial means to cover your stay. Your financial means can be proven either through proof of funds, like a bank statement, or a valid job offer. Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be assigned a score by the Comprehensive Ranking System, or CRS, and this score helps determine whether you’ll be sent an ITA.
