If you’ve been selected from the Express Entry pool and have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada, congratulations! An ITA is your gateway to starting a new life in Canada, but understanding the steps involved is crucial to ensure a smooth process. This guide provides all the information you need to complete and submit your ITA successfully.
If you haven’t received it yet, we recommend reading the article again to become more familiar with the process and getting in touch with us to analyze and expedite your application.
Let’s Start with a brief introduction:
What is an ITA?
An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is issued to eligible candidates in the Express Entry pool by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows selected individuals to submit a formal application for permanent residence (PR).
The ITA is distinct from other stages, such as eligibility to join the Express Entry pool or provincial nominations. Receiving an ITA is based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which ranks candidates according to various factors, including:
- Core human capital factors (age, education, language ability)
- Skill transferability (education and work experience combinations)
- Additional points (provincial nomination, sibling in Canada, or French proficiency)
Frequency of ITA Draws
IRCC conducts Express Entry draws every two weeks, setting a minimum CRS cut-off score. Only candidates meeting or exceeding the cut-off receive an ITA.
Steps to Follow After Receiving an ITA
Submit a Complete Application
After receiving an ITA, candidates have 60 days to submit their complete application to IRCC. To avoid delays, it’s crucial to gather all required documents in advance and ensure accuracy.
SEP Immigration—a leading immigration firm based in Toronto, Canada—has extensive experience with Express Entry applications. Whether you need help understanding required documents or navigating potential complexities, SEP Immigration makes the process Simple, Efficient, and Professional.
Required Documentation
Here’s a checklist of essential documents you’ll need to upload with your application:
- Valid passport
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
- Police clearance certificates
- Proof of work experience (letters from employers)
- Medical examination receipt
- Photographs of applicant and family members
Depending on your situation, you may also need additional documents such as:
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) or Canadian education certificates
- Job offer letter from a Canadian employer
- Proof of settlement funds
- Marriage certificate or cohabitation proof for common-law partners
- Custody or adoption papers for children
Once all documents are uploaded, you can submit your application. IRCC typically processes PR applications within six months and issues an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) after submission.
Avoiding Misrepresentation
Providing false or inaccurate information during the immigration process—known as misrepresentation—can have severe consequences, including a 5-year ban from entering the Express Entry pool. Examples of misrepresentation include submitting altered documents or withholding key details. Applicants must ensure all information is truthful and accurate.
What If You Cannot Submit it on Time?
If you miss the 60-day deadline, your ITA will expire. Candidates can decline the ITA to be returned to the pool, but re-entry requires meeting the minimum criteria again. If your application is incomplete, or if personal circumstances change, it may be beneficial to seek expert advice.
At SEP Immigration, we specialize in both Express Entry applications and appeals. With a wealth of experience handling complex immigration matters—including enforcement issues, family class appeals, and admissibility concerns—our team ensures that each client finds the best pathway to Canada.
Free Consultation for ITA Holders
Navigating the ITA process can be overwhelming, especially with strict timelines and documentation requirements. SEP Immigration offers free legal consultations to ITA holders. If you’ve received an ITA, our immigration experts can help you prepare a complete and accurate PR application.
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