Express Entry
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for skilled immigrants who want to settle permanently and contribute to its economy. The Express Entry system is a fast and efficient way to apply for permanent residence under four economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program.
However, applying for permanent residence through Express Entry is not a simple process. It requires careful planning, preparation and attention to detail. Many applicants make mistakes that can affect their eligibility, ranking or approval of their application. Here are some of the most common mistakes in Express Entry applications and how to avoid them.
Before creating an online profile and entering the Express Entry pool, applicants must make sure they meet the minimum requirements for at least one of the four programs. These requirements include work experience, education, language skills, age and other factors. Applicants who do not meet these criteria will be found ineligible and will not receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
To avoid this mistake, applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria for each program and assess their qualifications against them. They should also obtain valid language test results, educational credential assessments (ECA), job offers or provincial nominations if required by their program.
Another common mistake in Express Entry applications is providing inaccurate or incomplete information in the online profile or the permanent residence application. This can lead to misrepresentation, which is a serious offence that can result in refusal, removal or a ban from applying again for five years.
To avoid this mistake, applicants should ensure that all the information they provide is true, complete and consistent with their supporting documents. They should also update their profile if there are any changes in their circumstances that may affect their eligibility or ranking. For example, if they get married or divorced, have a child, change jobs or obtain new credentials.
A third common mistake in Express Entry applications is missing deadlines or documents when submitting the permanent residence application. Applicants who receive an ITA have only 60 days to complete and submit their application online with all the required documents. If they fail to do so within this time frame, they will lose their ITA and have to re-enter the pool.
To avoid this mistake, applicants should start preparing their documents as soon as possible after receiving an ITA. They should also check the document checklist carefully and follow the instructions on how to scan and upload them correctly. Some of the documents that are often required include police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds and identity documents.
By avoiding these common mistakes in Express Entry applications, applicants can increase their chances of success and achieve their dream of becoming permanent residents of Canada.
The cost of applying for Express Entry depends on the program you are applying under and the number of family members included in your application. The fees include:
The documents you need to apply for Express Entry depend on the program you are applying under and your personal situation. However, some of the common documents that are required include:
You can find a detailed document checklist on the IRCC website based on your program and invitation to apply.
To submit your application for Express Entry online, you need to follow these steps:
The processing time for Express Entry applications varies by program and depends on several factors such as:
However, IRCC aims to process most Express Entry applications within six months or less. You can check the status of your application online through your account on the IRCC website.
If you require more information about Express Entry in Canada, our agents at SayHomeCanada Immigration will be happy to serve you! Contact us today!
