Canada PR Process 2019 – How to Apply for PR Visa Step by Step
The desire for improved standards of living and appealing employment prospects continue to attract a diverse range of expats to Canada annually. In response to this phenomenon, the Canada PR process was streamlined and made more user-friendly through the Express Entry Program, an online application system for skilled immigration aspirants. Based on a point allocation system that evaluates the applicant’s profile, a person who scores 67 or more points out of 100 is considered eligible for the Express Entry Pool.
This simple process of manifesting your ideal life abroad unfolds in three distinct steps:
1. Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
The initial stage of application requires the aspirant to verify the equivalency of their educational qualifications as per Canadian standards, through assessment authorities such as World Education Services (WES), ICAS, IQAS, etc. This requires the university to share the applicant’s transcripts with the relevant assessment authority. If the aspirant is married, it is recommended that the spouse may also undergo ECA, in order to avail additional points. The ECA report typically arrives within two-three months.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI)
At the second stage, the applicant enters the Express Entry Pool, a government pool of PR applications. They are also advised to submit their profile to the Canada Job Bank, which creates a possibility for applicants to receive a job offer and avail additional points. The ECA report(s) and IELTS General Test score are mandatory at this stage. Post filing the application, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) allocates points out of 1200 to the candidate, based on various eligibility criteria:
Age
Educational Qualifications
Work Experience
English language proficiency
Adaptability Factors
Aspirants can enlist through the Federal Skilled Immigrant category, which allows them to live and work anywhere in Canada; or be nominated by a province according to local labor market requirements, provided they live in that province for two consecutive years after landing in Canada. Extra points are allotted for provincial nomination. Once filed, the EOI is valid for a one year period, during which the applicants who meet or exceed the CRS cut off mark will be selected through regular listing draws, and issued an Invitation to Apply.
3. Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Those who receive an ITA are required to file an application for PR within 60 days from the date of receipt. Documents to authenticate the information provided at the second stage must be submitted for verification to federal government agencies. The applicant is required to obtain Medical and Police Clearance Certificates, and showcase proof of liquid funds for themselves and dependents. After paying the Visa Filing and Right of Landing Fee, the confirmation of PR through Visa Stamping culminates the process. The response to the ITA is evaluated within six months.
The life-changing decision of relocating to another country can prove overwhelming, but following these guidelines will help aspirants navigate the Canada PR process successfully.
