Last Updated on: 16th August 2024, 09:58 am

Canada Visa: Common Misconceptions about the Express Entry Program

With the new Express Entry program that launched in January of 2015, there is a long list of questions that everyone has related to its process. Overall, the program promises to get potential candidates that have received an Invitation To Apply (ITA), Permanent Resident (PR) status within 6 months. This is a lot quicker than almost any other immigration program in the past so if your lucky to have received an ITA you will get your PR status in record timing. The downfall obviously being that the selection process is a lot more strict and more competitive.

The biggest and most critical factor in applying under any of the Express Entry categories, is having a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) supported occupation. Most people do not have one because they are usually exempt from having to apply for one during the validity of their work permit. Commonly, most potential applicants have a post graduate work permit, working holiday visa, or other LMIA exempt work authorization. This means that these potential candidates are virtually ineligible to apply for the Express Entry system. As of right now, there are no exceptions to the LMIA rule and all applicants must have a LMIA supported occupation if they want to apply under the Express Entry categories. This single requirement is usually what precludes most applicants from being eligible to apply under the Express Entry system. This means that if you are on the other side of the fence and you do have a LMIA supported occupation, then it is very likely that you will be selected for Permanent Resident status in Canada.

For the first couple of rounds of applicants that have been selected for an ITA, the cut off score on average was 850. Considering that a LMIA gives you 600 points right off the bat, you have really good chances of obtaining PR status if your occupation is supported by a LMIA. When you are evaluating your profile to see if you are eligible, it is important to ensure that you do an accurate assessment of your case so that nothing is over looked. Our Immigration Consultant Toronto experts will ensure that we evaluate your eligibility against all of the potential immigration categories that you may qualify for. You may feel that you can process the entire case yourself however, keep in mind that there is a lot more that goes into ensuring that your profile is appealing, and in the target criteria for the type of talent that CIC wants to retain.

Even if you do not qualify to obtain PR status through the Express Entry system, our Immigration Consultant Toronto professionals can still ensure that all of your possible options are evaluated. We strongly encourage you to get in touch with an immigration professional at Canadian Immigration Services and see how we can help you obtain PR status quickly. We will do a complete assessment of your case and provide you with a consultation so that you are aware of the best possible options available to you. Fill out the quick contact form on the right so that we can help you obtain PR status.

Assad B.

I'm a fully licensed Immigration Consultant based in Toronto. My goal is to make your immigration journey as smooth and successful as possible. Follow my blog to stay informed on the latest immigration updates, tips, and insights to help you achieve your goals in Canada.