The Express Entry Draw Marches On

On 23 March 2020 Canada held it’s 140th Express Entry draw, inviting 3,232 applicants to apply for permanent residency in Canada. It was the third draw from March and came only five days after their last draw. The draw was aimed specifically at candidates who entered under the Canadian Experience Class category and issued invitations to applicants with scores as low as 467 points on their Comprehensive Ranking Score. As Canada continues to function extraordinarily well during this time of global crisis, it should come as no surprise that they can continue to invite applicants largely thanks to their strict application process. The message is clear, Canada wants immigrants with desirable skills to help them continue to be a nation at the forefront of the global economy.Start Your Journey

Why Do Immigrants Choose Canada

As Canada looks to welcome over a million new immigrants by the end of 2022, we can look at a few of the reasons why they don’t struggle to attract people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Quality of Life

No matter what you do or where you live in Canada, you will have an amazing quality of life. The Canadian wilderness is unrivaled in beauty and there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy in both the summer and wintertime. The cost of living is very affordable in Canada and is always relative to where you choose to live. In cities, you will earn higher wages, but rent will be more expensive. Living in the country will have relatively lower costs and you will have much more direct access to the great outdoors; hiking, mountain biking, swimming, skiing during winter and building great big snowmen are what’s waiting for you in the great white north.

Social Benefits

Canada has one of the best public healthcare systems in the world, just look at how well they are handling the COVID-19 pandemic. Paid for in equal measure by all the residents and citizens of Canada for the benefit of one and all, it is a social system that is the envy of many countries. To add to that free public schooling for all children up to the age of 18 and thousands of public grants available to promising students looking to further their education at tertiary institutions. Canada is a country that cares about the well being of its people and knows the value of education.

Food, Fun and Seasons

From beaver tails and Timbits at funfairs during the sunny summers to hearty bowls of poutine and beef dips while cuddled up by the fireplace during snowy winters. Canada has a rich and vibrant culture that encourages diversity, happy families and inclusivity as a way of life. When asked in a recent survey 93% of Canadians said they would happily welcome someone of a different cultural background into their community. The stereotype about Canadians being friendly is indeed true, and it’s one of the few stereotypes we have no problem getting behind. 

Express Entry - The Canadian Experience Class

The main differentiating factor of the Canadian Experience Class Category of the Express Entry program is that applicants must have at least 1 year of work experience in Canada within the last three years. The work can be in a part-time position, but must then equal one years’ full-time work experience. Furthermore:

• The position must fall within the NOC 0, A or B (Managerial jobs, professional jobs, and technical jobs or skilled trades);
• You must be able to prove you met or currently meet the requirements of the positions as specified;
• There is no Education requirement, however, you can increase your CRS score by attending a post-secondary school in Canada or having your foreign credentials assessed;
• You must score a minimum of 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark tests for NOC O, A or a 5 for NOC B positions; and
• You must be admissible to Canada. 

So, if you already have work experience in Canada, you can apply to Express Entry under the CEC and you will have a good chance of being issued an invitation to apply for permanent residency. If you are interested in immigrating to Canada but think you would like to work there for a while before applying for permanent residency, this may be a viable path for you. You will, however, need to obtain a valid job offer and a work permit before making your way to Canada.

What We Do at MDC

Navigating the Canadian immigration and visa system can be a bit of a chore. There are copious amounts of forms to complete, documents to submit and strict submission dates. We wouldn’t blame you for being slow to take off with your application. That's what we’re here for. MDC is an all-inclusive immigration and visa service, we take the stress and hassle out of the application process. Our accredited RCICs (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants) are ready to evaluate your eligibility, review all documentation and submit your application and supporting documents on your behalf. Using an RCIC not only gives you the best possible chance of receiving an ITA but will make the entire process simple and stress-free. We handle the paperwork while you secure a good job offer. All you have to do is complete our online eligibility form and we’ll take care of the rest. It's just that simple.