Canada Express Entry: Permanent Residence Guide For Nigerian Skilled Workers

Canada has long been a popular destination for skilled workers from around the world, including Nigeria. The country’s robust economy, high standard of living, and multicultural society make it an attractive place to live and work.

One of the most efficient pathways to Canadian permanent residence for skilled workers is through the Express Entry system.

This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating the Express Entry system, specifically tailored for Nigerian skilled workers.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It is designed to streamline the immigration process and select candidates who are most likely to succeed economically in Canada. The system covers three main immigration programmes:

Federal Skilled Worker Programme (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Federal Skilled Worker Programme (FSWP)

The FSWP is designed for individuals with significant work experience and qualifications. Applicants are assessed based on a points system that considers factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP)

The FSTP is for skilled workers who are qualified in a skilled trade. Applicants must have a job offer or a certificate of qualification in their trade issued by a Canadian authority.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The CEC is for individuals who have already worked in Canada for at least one year in a skilled occupation. This programme is ideal for those who have gained Canadian work experience and wish to transition to permanent residence.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Express Entry, Nigerian skilled workers must meet the following basic criteria:

Work Experience: You must have at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in the last 10 years.
Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by taking an approved language test (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP for English; TEF or TCF for French).
Education: You must have a credential equivalent to a Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required for foreign credentials.
Proof of Funds: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada, unless you are currently able to legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer.
Admissibility: You must be admissible to Canada, which means you have a clean criminal record and are in good health.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Before starting your application, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. Use the Come to Canada tool to check your eligibility.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents, including:

Passport
Language test results
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report
Proof of work experience
Proof of funds
Provincial nomination (if applicable)
Job offer (if applicable)

Step 3: Create an Express Entry Profile

Create an online Express Entry profile on the IRCC website. You will need to provide detailed information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.

Step 4: Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

After creating your profile, you will receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information you provided. The CRS score is used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Step 5: Improve Your CRS Score

If your CRS score is lower than desired, consider ways to improve it. This could include:

Improving your language test scores
Gaining additional work experience
Obtaining a higher level of education
Securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
Receiving a provincial nomination through the Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP)

Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Candidates with the highest CRS scores in the Express Entry pool are issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence through regular draws conducted by IRCC. If you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

Step 7: Submit Your Application for Permanent Residence

Submit your complete application for permanent residence through the IRCC online portal. Ensure all required documents are included and accurate. Pay the applicable fees and submit biometrics if required.

Step 8: Wait for Application Processing

After submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt. IRCC will review your application and may request additional documents or information. Processing times can vary, but you can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.

Step 9: Receive a Decision

Once your application is processed, you will receive a decision from IRCC. If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable). You can then make arrangements to move to Canada.

Step 10: Arrive in Canada

Upon arrival in Canada, present your COPR and visa to the immigration officer at the port of entry. You will officially become a permanent resident of Canada and can begin your new life.

Tips for Nigerian Skilled Workers

Prepare Early: Start preparing your documents and improving your language skills well in advance.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest immigration news and changes to the Express Entry system.
Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with an immigration consultant or lawyer to guide you through the process.
Network: Connect with other Nigerian immigrants in Canada through social media groups and associations for support and advice.

Useful Links

Conclusion

The Express Entry system offers a streamlined and efficient pathway for Nigerian skilled workers to achieve permanent residence in Canada. By understanding the process, meeting the eligibility criteria, and preparing thoroughly, you can increase your chances of success.

Canada, with its diverse opportunities and welcoming environment, is ready to embrace skilled workers from Nigeria who are eager to contribute to its continued growth and prosperity.