Federal Skilled Workers

New Simplified Immigration Process

Canada has many employment opportunities and welcomes thousands of skilled workers from around the world every year. The main objective for encouraging this category of immigration is to attract people with invaluable education and employment skills who will contribute to Canada's economic growth and development.

Canadian skilled worker applicants are assessed based upon a series of factors, which are in theory, designed to indicate the likelihood of becoming economically established in Canada. Applications are assessed on six selection factors and a points system. In order to be eligible to obtain a permanent resident visa under the federal skilled worker category, an applicant must score at least 67 points.

In addition, an applicant must have at least one year of continous full-time work experience in the category of Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B on the Canadian National Occupational Classification, within the last 10 years and show enough funds to establish in Canada. Applicant must also pass a medical examination before coming to Canada. Dependants (spouse and children) are also required to pass the medical examination even if they are not coming to Canada.

Applications for permanent residence will not be accepted if that person's health:

• is a danger to public health or safety; or
• would cause excessive demand on health or social services in Canada.

Required documentation

Prospective immigrants are generally required to submit the following documents:

• Identity / marriage information;
• Children's information ;
• Travel documents;
• Proof of family relationship in Canada;
• Employment / education information;
• Proof of language ability;
• Proof of funds;
• Police certificates;
• Governmental fees payment

The immigration process

Skilled workers are expected to have the skills, education, work experience, language ability and other qualities needed to find a job in Canada. Though those do not guarantee an immigrant a job in Canada they can secure successful immigration to Canada.

Most skilled worker applicants are required to attend a selection interview with an immigration officer. Such interviews are held to ensure the information in the application is accurate, to verify documentation, and to help applicants relocate to Canada. Interview waivers are granted at the discretion of the immigration officials.