Live in Canada: Visa & Immigration Options Explained
Dear P.E.,
It’s great to hear from you both! With your education in Ontario and a year of work experience right here in Canada, you’re on a promising path toward permanent residency (PR). Let’s break it down so you can see your options clearly.
You both are eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a straightforward route under the Express Entry system. The CEC is designed for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada, which you both have. Your husband’s role as a technical support agent falls under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) code 22221 (TEER 2), while your position as an administrative assistant is classified under NOC 13110 (TEER 3). Both of these occupations are recognized as skilled, which is essential for your application.
Being under 30 with Canadian education and work experience gives you a valuable boost in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The next important factor is your English language skills. You’ll need to complete an approved test, such as IELTS General Training or CELPIP. For the best chances of scoring high in the CRS, aim for at least an 8.5 in the IELTS or a 10 in CELPIP.
While Express Entry can be competitive, your qualifications position you well. If you don’t get selected quickly, consider applying through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This can enhance your chances, especially since Alberta and Saskatchewan are on your radar.
Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNP)
In Alberta, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program has a stream that allows direct selection from the federal Express Entry pool. To be eligible, you need an active Express Entry profile, a job in a role that supports Alberta’s economy, and a CRS score of at least 300. If Alberta sends you a Notification of Interest, you can apply for nomination. If approved, you get an extra 600 CRS points, significantly increasing your chances of receiving an invitation for PR.
Saskatchewan also has a similar setup with its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program. If you or your husband hold an Express Entry profile, have relevant work experience, and perform well on language tests, you could qualify. Keep in mind you need to score at least 60 points on Saskatchewan’s selection grid. Since you studied in Canada, you won’t need an Educational Credential Assessment, which is often required for international diplomas.
Although you studied in Ontario, you’re not limited to Ontario’s PNP. If you land a job offer there and meet eligibility for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Programme’s Employer Job Offer stream, that’s another path worth exploring, especially if your employer is open to supporting your application.
If your work permits are nearing expiry, it’s best to jump on the Express Entry System right away. If you receive an invitation to apply for PR, you may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (OWP), allowing you to continue working while your PR application is in process.
Other Options to Remain
If your work permits are about to expire and you haven’t received an invitation or secured another permit, consider changing your status to a visitor. This isn’t a work permit, but it allows you to stay in Canada legally while waiting for an invitation or provincial nomination.
In summary, with your age, Canadian education, and skilled work experience, you stand a great chance of making Canada your permanent home. Focus on your language tests, enter the Express Entry pool, and remain watchful for PNP opportunities. If you’re looking for more tailored job opportunities, visit us at VisaJobsCanada.com, where you’ll find job listings that offer visa sponsorship to international applicants.
What do you think?
Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Canada? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.
