Canada, renowned for its welcoming spirit and diverse opportunities, beckons individuals from around the globe to embark on a journey toward Permanent Residency. The process unfolds with the coveted Invitation to Apply (ITA), a key milestone in realizing your dream of becoming a permanent resident in this beautiful country.
Understanding the Express Entry System:
The Express Entry system serves as the primary gateway for skilled workers and professionals aspiring to settle in Canada. It assesses candidates based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), evaluating factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and more.
Eligibility Criteria:
To receive an ITA, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the Express Entry system. This includes creating an Express Entry profile and obtaining a score that places them among the top-ranking candidates in the pool.
Expression of Interest (EOI):
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) is the first step toward receiving an ITA. The EOI is a comprehensive online profile where candidates provide detailed information about their skills, work experience, education, and language proficiency. The CRS score is then calculated based on this information.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):
The CRS score is a crucial determinant for receiving an ITA. It is based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency in English and French, adaptability, and additional points for provincial nomination or a valid job offer.
Invitation to Apply (ITA):
Once a candidate’s CRS score places them high enough in the Express Entry pool, they become eligible to receive an ITA. These invitations are typically issued in regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Document Preparation:
Upon receiving an ITA, candidates have a limited timeframe to submit their complete application for permanent residency. This includes providing detailed documentation such as educational certificates, work experience letters, language test results, and police clearance certificates.
Medical and Security Checks:
As part of the application process, candidates must undergo medical examinations and security checks to ensure they meet Canada’s health and safety standards.
Permanent Residency Approval:
Upon successful completion of all requirements, including medical and security checks, candidates receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can proceed to Canada as permanent residents.
Misrepresentation in Canadian Immigration
Misrepresentation occurs when false information is knowingly provided in an immigration application. This includes submitting fake documents, lying about one’s qualifications, or omitting critical information. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) treats misrepresentation seriously, with penalties including a five-year ban from entering Canada and having any visa or permanent residency revoked.
Even accidental errors can result in an application being rejected, though intentional fraud carries more severe consequences. To avoid issues, it’s crucial to double-check all documents and declarations. Misrepresentation also affects family members included in the application, meaning everyone could face penalties.
Your ITA Options: Accepting / Declining / Expiration
When you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the Express Entry system, you have 60 days to make a decision. Accepting the ITA requires you to submit your application for permanent residence. Declining the ITA won’t penalize you, and you can remain in the pool to receive future invitations.
However, if you don’t respond within the 60-day window, the ITA will automatically expire, and your profile will be removed from the pool. It’s critical to evaluate your CRS score and readiness before accepting an ITA, as missing information can lead to rejection later.
Getting Help With Your Express Entry Application
Although it’s possible to navigate the Express Entry process on your own, many applicants choose to seek professional assistance. Immigration lawyers or regulated consultants can provide guidance on improving your CRS score, gathering the correct documentation, and submitting a flawless application.
They also help interpret complex regulations, avoid common mistakes, and offer personalized advice based on your specific case. Given the competitiveness of the Express Entry process, hiring professional help can increase your chances of success. However, make sure any consultant or lawyer you work with is licensed and recognized by Canadian authorities.
What Happens to an Express Entry Profile Once an ITA Is Issued?
Once an ITA is issued, your Express Entry profile is frozen, meaning no further changes can be made to the information you initially provided. You will have 60 days to submit your electronic Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR). At this stage, you must submit all supporting documents, including medical exams, proof of funds, and police certificates.
If you fail to submit the eAPR within the given timeframe, the ITA will expire, and your profile will be removed from the Express Entry pool. Ensure that all your documents are accurate and ready for submission.
How Long Does It Take to Receive an ITA?
The time it takes to receive an ITA varies depending on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and the cutoff score for each draw. Express Entry draws typically happen every two weeks. Candidates with higher CRS scores are more likely to receive invitations faster, sometimes within weeks of entering the pool.
For those with lower scores, the wait may be longer, depending on whether targeted draws or occupation-specific draws are held. While luck plays a role, improving your score by increasing your language proficiency, education, or work experience can speed up the process.
After an ITA Is Received, How Much Does It Cost to Submit an Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR)?
After receiving an ITA, you will need to pay the processing fee of around $825 for the principal applicant. Additionally, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $500 must also be paid. For those applying with family members, the cost increases as each dependent adds additional fees.
Beyond the government fees, applicants might also incur costs for medical exams, police certificates, language tests, and biometrics. It’s essential to budget for these expenses ahead of time, as failing to pay the required fees will result in delays or even cancellation of your application.
What Happens After an eAPR Has Been Submitted?
Once an eAPR has been submitted, your application is reviewed by IRCC officers. This involves verifying your documents, such as proof of employment, educational credentials, and language test results. Background checks are conducted to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
If everything is in order, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). This document allows you to enter Canada as a permanent resident. If additional documents are needed or if issues arise, IRCC will contact you to resolve them. Processing times generally range from six to twelve months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Once an eAPR Has Been Submitted, Can the Applicant Travel?
Yes, applicants can usually travel after submitting their eAPR, but they need to ensure their temporary resident status remains valid. If you leave Canada while your application is in process, you must meet the entry requirements upon your return. It’s advisable to keep your status and documents up to date to avoid complications during re-entry.
Traveling doesn’t negatively impact the processing of your eAPR unless IRCC requests additional documents or biometrics, which may require your presence in Canada. Always check for any updates from IRCC regarding your case before planning travel.
Once an eAPR Has Been Submitted, Can the Applicant Apply for a Canadian Work Permit?
After submitting an eAPR, you may be eligible to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if your current work permit is about to expire. The BOWP allows applicants to continue working while their permanent residence application is processed. However, to qualify, you must already have a valid work permit and meet certain conditions.
This work permit is especially useful for applicants waiting for their permanent residency decision but needing to maintain employment. It helps ensure that your status in Canada remains valid during the waiting period.
In a nutshell:
The Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residency in Canada through the Express Entry system is a significant step toward building a new life in a country known for its high quality of life, inclusive society, and vast opportunities. As you embark on this transformative journey, SEP Immigration stands ready to guide you through each stage, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in Canada. Your dream of permanent residency is not just an aspiration; it’s a tangible reality awaiting you. Contact us today, and let’s take the first step together.
