Introduction
There are several visas available for those looking to move to Canada, and the Federal Skilled Worker application is based on the ability of the applicant to successfully move to Canada and become economically stable.
Express Entry
Beginning in January 2015, Federal Skilled Worker applications have been processed through the Express Entry selection system. If you are interested in applying to be a Federal Skilled Worker in Canada, you must first create an online Express Entry profile.
- Determine Inadmissibly
If you have a criminal background, significant health concerns or if you have financial woes you will not be allowed to enter Canada despite meeting all other criteria.
- Check Your Eligibility
Review the criteria below to determine if your application is a good one. A points system is used as part of the application process. A total of 67 points will be required at a minimum on an application.
- Determine if Your Field Is Approved
Canada categorizes fields of expertise in the Canadian National Occupation Classification. These categories including:
- Skill Type 0 – Managerial roles in all areas.
- Skill Type A – University-degreed professional roles like doctors, lawyers, and accountants.
- Skill Type B - Skilled trades including degreed and apprenticed such as nurses, plumbers and mechanics.
- Determine Work Eligibility
You must have at least one year of continuous and paid work experience. Even part-time hours count if they add up to more than 1560 hours. Your work must be constant over the previous year and have been consistent for up to ten years.
If you are moving to Canada to accept a job offer, you must show evidence of the offer. Work is worth up to 15 points on the application score with a minimum of 9 points required. Work eligibility may also be shown if you have completed a PhD in Canada or completed two years of study toward a PhD at approved Canadian Universities.
- Demonstrate Language Abilities
You will be required to demonstrate proficiency in either French or English as part of your skilled worker application. The tests will be completed by an agency approved by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). Language skills are worth up to 28 points on the application.
- Satisfy Educational Qualifications
To apply as a skilled worker in Canada, you will be required to show that your educational background meets the minimum Canadian standards. These standards include the equivalent of a Canadian diploma, certificate or credential. This is determined by a CIC-approved agency. Education is worth 25 points in the application score.
- Consider Your Age
The maximum number of 12 points are allotted for those with ages between 18 and 35. One point is deducted from your score for every year over 35. When you reach 47, you are given a score of zero.
- Show Adaptability
How easily you and your spouse will adhere to the culture of Canada and be able to integrate into society. Categories in this measure include language abilities, previous studies or work in Canada and relatives already living in Canada. The adaptability score is worth up to 10 points on the application score.
- Demonstrate Evidence of Funds
Canada will require you to show that you have the funds necessary to support yourself and your family as you immigrate. This check may be waived if you show a valid offer of employment in Canada as the basis of your move.
- Find Employment in Canada
If you do not already have a job offer, you will be required to find work in Canada. Factors that can affect employment include the Canadian equivalency of your credentials, your language skills, and your work experience. Having employment already arranged in Canada nets a score of 10 points on the application.
- Completing the Application Process
Once you have submitted your application, you may be notified of an interview request. All applicants will be required to have a Canadian Immigration Medical Examination.
If your application is approved, you will pay Permanent Residence fees and present your passport to the Canadian visa office. Your passport and visa paperwork will then be returned and you will be required to move before the expiration date on the visa.
