Essential Docs for Express Entry

Vancouver skyline

Navigating the Express Entry system for Canadian immigration can be a complex process. It requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of the necessary documents.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the essential documents needed for Express Entry. It’s designed to help potential immigrants prepare their application with confidence.

We’ll cover everything from personal identification to educational credentials. We’ll also delve into language proficiency tests, work experience documents, and proof of funds.

Additionally, we’ll discuss the documents required for accompanying family members. We’ll also provide insights into the process after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Whether you’re a skilled worker, a professional, or simply seeking a new life in Canada, this guide will help you navigate the Express Entry system. Let’s get started on your journey to Canadian permanent residency.

Understanding Express Entry

The Express Entry system is a pathway to Canadian permanent residency. It’s an online system that manages applications for three federal immigration programs.

These programs target skilled workers and professionals who can contribute to Canada’s economy. The system uses a points-based approach, known as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), to rank applicants.

Federal Immigration Programs under Express Entry

The three main federal immigration programs under Express Entry are:

  1. Federal Skilled Worker Program
  2. Federal Skilled Trades Program
  3. Canadian Experience Class

Each program has its own set of criteria. Applicants must meet these criteria to be eligible for Express Entry. Understanding these programs can help you prepare the necessary documents for your application.

Preparing Your Documents

Before creating your Express Entry profile, it’s crucial to gather all necessary documents. These documents will provide proof of your identity, education, work experience, and financial stability.

Having these documents ready will make the application process smoother. It will also help you avoid delays in the submission of your Express Entry profile.

Personal Identification Documents

The first set of documents you’ll need are personal identification documents. These are crucial for verifying your identity.

You’ll need:

  • A valid passport or travel document
  • Birth certificates for you and any accompanying family members

These documents must be valid and up-to-date. Make sure to check the expiry dates before submitting your application.

Educational Credentials and ECA

If you have a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate, you’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). This assessment verifies that your education is equivalent to a Canadian one.

You’ll need:

  • Your degree, diploma, or certificate
  • An ECA report from an approved organization

Remember, the ECA report must not be more than five years old when you apply.

Language Proficiency Tests

Language proficiency is a key factor in the Express Entry system. You’ll need to prove your proficiency in English or French.

You’ll need:

  • Test results from an approved language test, such as IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF or TCF for French

Your test results must be less than two years old when you apply.

Work Experience and Reference Letters

Your work experience can earn you points in the CRS. You’ll need to provide documents that prove your work history.

You’ll need:

  • Reference letters from your employers
  • You may also need pay stubs or other proof of employment

Your reference letters should include your job title, duties, pay and dates of employment.

Proof of Funds

Unless you’re currently authorized to work in Canada or have a valid job offer, you’ll need to show proof of funds. This proves that you can support yourself and any family members who come with you.

You’ll need:

  • Bank statements
  • Letters from banks or financial institutions where you keep money

Make sure these documents clearly show your name and the account balance.

Additional Documents for Express Entry

Apart from the basic documents, there are additional documents you may need. These depend on your personal circumstances and the specific requirements of the Express Entry program you’re applying to.

Police Certificates and Medical Exams

For security and health reasons, you’ll need to provide police certificates and undergo medical exams.

You’ll need:

  • Police certificates from countries where you’ve lived for six months or more
  • Medical exam results from an approved panel physician

Remember, these documents must be recent and valid at the time of your application.

Documents for Accompanying Family Members

If you’re bringing family members with you to Canada, you’ll need additional documents for them.

You’ll need:

  • Their passports or travel documents
  • Their birth certificates
  • If applicable, marriage certificates or proof of common-law partnership

These documents help verify the identity and relationship status of your accompanying family members.

After Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), the real work begins. You’ll need to submit a complete application within 60 days.

This includes all the necessary documents we’ve discussed. It’s crucial to act quickly and efficiently to meet this deadline.

Document Submission Timeline and Tips

Submitting your documents correctly is as important as gathering them. Here are some tips to help you:

  • Ensure all documents are translated into English or French.
  • Check each document for accuracy and completeness.
  • Keep digital copies of all documents for your records.

Remember, the quality of your document submission can significantly impact your application’s success.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When it comes to Express Entry, small errors can lead to big problems. It’s essential to avoid common mistakes that could delay your application or even lead to rejection.

One common mistake is submitting incomplete or incorrect documents. This can cause unnecessary delays and complications in your application process.

Updating and Correcting Information

If you need to update or correct information in your Express Entry profile, don’t panic. It’s a common occurrence and can be handled smoothly.

Here are some steps to follow:

  • Log into your account and select “Update form”.
  • Make the necessary changes and save them.
  • Review your information for accuracy before submitting.

Remember, honesty and accuracy are crucial in your Express Entry application.

Conclusion and Additional Resources

Navigating the Express Entry process can be complex, but with the right preparation, it’s manageable. Remember, the key to a successful application is having all the necessary documents ready and accurately filled out.

You can learn more about Express Entry and the answers to commonly asked questions at our explainer page.

For additional help, consider consulting with immigration professionals. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure your documents are in order. Also, regularly check the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most current document requirements and updates.

Get in Touch

Canada Immigration Partners
Vancouver Office

604-722-8930

Monday to Friday
9AM to 5PM

908 – 938 Howe Street
Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1N9

Book a Consultation
/by

Foreign Work Experience for Express Entry

Vancouver skyline

Navigating the path to Canadian immigration can be complex. One key factor that can influence your journey is your foreign work experience.

In the Express Entry system, foreign work experience plays a significant role. It can impact your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is crucial for your application’s success.

This article aims to shed light on the importance of foreign work experience. We’ll explore how it’s evaluated and how you can leverage it to enhance your Express Entry profile.

Whether you’re a skilled worker, a professional, or an international student, this guide is for you. It’s designed to help you understand how your work experience abroad can benefit your immigration process.

Join us as we delve into the world of Express Entry and foreign work experience. Let’s uncover the strategies that can increase your chances of a successful immigration application.

What is Foreign Work Experience for the Purposes of Express Entry?

Foreign work experience as defined by IRCC ;

  • Must be considered skilled under the National Occupation System (NOC);
  • Full time at least 30 hours a week, part time equivalency is allowed, though not in qualifying for FSW;
  • Work Experience must be paid, it can’t be voluntary;
  • It must have been obtained on a valid work permit if not obtained from your home country;
  • It can’t be obtained while you were a full time student.

Understanding Express Entry and Foreign Work Experience

The Express Entry system is a pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. It’s a points-based system, where applicants are ranked based on their profile.

Foreign work experience is one of the factors considered in this ranking. It can significantly influence your CRS score, which determines your position in the Express Entry pool.

Here are some key points to understand about Express Entry and foreign work experience:

  • Foreign work experience can earn you points in the CRS.
  • The type and duration of your work experience can affect your score.
  • Work experience must be in a specific occupation listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) and meet requirements of Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) required for that occupation. 

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

The CRS is a points-based system used in Express Entry. It’s designed to assess and score your profile based on several factors.

Foreign work experience is one of these factors. It’s evaluated alongside other elements like education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.

The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) vs. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The FSWP and CEC are two programs under the Express Entry system.

CEC requires skilled Canadian work experience as part of the qualifying criteria.

This means that CEC has the advantage of  awarding points for Foreign work experience and Canadian work experience  in the skills transferability section of the CRS score calculation.

Whereas the typical FSW’s does not have Canadian work experience and thus is not eligible for the additional points.

In both CEC and the FSWP, foreign work experience can earn you up to 50 points, in the foreign work experience and language section,  provided you have 3 years of qualifying skilled work experience and Canadian Language Benchmark  (CLB) 9.

Understanding these differences can help you strategize your Express Entry application.

Evaluating Your Foreign Work Experience

Evaluating your foreign work experience is a crucial step in your Express Entry application. It’s not just about the number of years you’ve worked. The nature of your work and the skills you’ve gained also matter.

Here are some key points to consider when evaluating your foreign work experience:

  • The type of work you did: Was it managerial, professional, or technical?
  • The duration of your work experience: How many years did you work in your field?
  • Was the work experience paid?  Was the pay commensurate with the skills, education, experience required for the position? 

Documenting Your Foreign Work Experience

What Needs to Be in Your Work Experience Letter

Your foreign work experience is assessed by examining your employer work experience letters and other documentation.
 
It is important to be truthful and accurate as often IRCC cross reference with employers.

It is critical that these letters contain the information that IRCC is looking for to validate your work experience as being skilled and qualifying under Express Entry.

These letters should be written as formal documents and printed on company letter head and signed by an authorized authority.  

More documentation may be required such as paystubs and tax returns at a later date.

The letters should cover the following in detail;

  • the applicant’s full name;
  • the employer’s email address, telephone number and physical address;
  • the name, title of the signature holder
  • job title for all the positions held, detailed duties and responsibilities, this will be cross reference with the NOC code chosen in your application;
  • start and end dates of employment, any periods of unemployment;
  • the number of hours worked per week and wages/salary and benefits;
  • include any relevant certifications or licenses;
  • in cases where the applicant is self employed; evidence of business ownership, tax documents and evidence of income must be provided as well as documentation from third party clients detailing the services or goods provided and the renumeration.

The Role of the National Occupational Classification (NOC)

The NOC plays a significant role in how your foreign work experience is evaluated. It’s a system used by the Canadian government to classify jobs based on the type of work a person does and the tasks they perform.

Your job must be listed in the NOC for your work experience to be considered. The NOC code assigned to your job can also affect your CRS score and whether  you qualify for Category Based Express Entry.

Strategies to Enhance Your Express Entry Profile

There are several strategies you can employ to enhance your Express Entry profile. One of the most effective ways is to gain more work experience. This could be either in Canada or abroad.

Another strategy is to improve your language proficiency. Proficiency in English or French can significantly boost your CRS score. It’s also beneficial in the Canadian job market.

Lastly, consider getting higher education. Having a degree, diploma, or certificate from a Canadian institution can give you an edge. It can also increase your CRS score.

Improving Your CRS Score

Improving your CRS score is crucial for increasing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency. One way to do this is by gaining more skilled work experience.

Another way is by improving your language skills. The CRS awards points for proficiency in English and French. So, investing time in language learning can pay off.

Lastly, consider pursuing further education or obtaining additional certifications in your field. These can add valuable points to your CRS score.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One common mistake is not properly documenting your foreign work experience. It’s crucial to provide accurate and detailed information. This includes job duties, duration, and employer details.

Another mistake is overestimating your language proficiency. Be honest about your language skills. Misrepresentation can lead to application refusal or even a ban from the Express Entry system.

Lastly, many applicants fail to update their profile regularly. Keep your profile up-to-date. This includes any changes in work experience, education, or language proficiency. It ensures your CRS score is accurate and maximizes your chances of success.

Conclusion: Maximizing Your Immigration Prospects

Foreign work experience can significantly enhance your Express Entry profile. It not only boosts your CRS score but also increases your employability in Canada. Therefore, it’s essential to effectively leverage this experience.

However, navigating the Express Entry system can be complex. It’s crucial to understand the requirements and stay updated on policy changes. This will help you avoid common mistakes and maximize your immigration prospects.

You can learn more about Express Entry and the answers to commonly asked questions at our explainer page.

In conclusion, foreign work experience is a valuable asset for Express Entry. With careful planning and strategic decisions, you can turn your international experience into a successful immigration journey

Why Trust Canada Immigration Partners

We are a one-stop solution for all your Canada immigration needs. Find out more about us and our immigration services.

Canada Immigration Partners has been established since 2008 and has successfully settled hundreds of individuals and families in Canada. We are owned and operated by Matthew Sell and Miho Shimizu, experienced and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants.

Crystal Clear Pricing

While other firms obscure the true cost of their services, CIP keeps things crystal clear. Consulting services cost as little as $199 CAD, and partnership prices are always negotiated in advance, making budgeting a painless process. 

The Personal Touch

You’ll never get lost in the shuffle at CIP. We treat every customer with the same level of attentiveness and care. While larger firms may offer immigration services as a mere aside, we are fully dedicated to you and your journey.

Fully Regulated

You can rest assured knowing that your application is in the hands of experienced professionals. Canada Immigration Partners’ consultants are regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants and are members of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants.

Find out if you qualify and call us at 604-722-8930 for your free 10-minute discovery call!

Book a Consultation
/by

The Love Story That Brought Me to Canada and Why We Became Immigration Consultants in Vancouver

Vancouver Immigration Consultant - CIP Canada - The Love Story That Brought Me to Canada and Why We Became Immigration Consultants in Vancouver

All of the travel experiences I had in my childhood and youth have shaped my thoughts on immigration and what it means to join Canada in its security, prosperity and diversity. If you haven’t already, you can read about this in the article Spinning the globe: Landing on Canada – A Guide to How We Became Vancouver Immigration Consultants

The Great Outdoors Was Calling

I was drawn to immigrate to Canada for its wealth of outdoor sports and activities that provide year-round enjoyment: mountain biking, camping, snowboarding, skiing, swimming in lakes, ice skating or ice fishing on a frozen lake are some examples of the allure of Canada to me. 

I first came to Canada in 2003 on the International Experience Class (IEC) visa. I met my now-wife and business partner, Miho, at that time while she was working as the regional manager for SWAP, the Student Work Abroad Programme, through which my visa and travel had been arranged. In time we fell in love and decided to build a life together and start a family.  Canada offered us the opportunity to do that. This is the beginning of our journey to becoming Vancouver immigration consultants. It is a journey built on love, of people and a country.   

Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast: Two Great Places to Live

Settling in Vancouver was the best move we made. Living in Coal Harbour (map link), we had the ocean, Stanley Park, restaurants and all the downtown has to offer.

Later, as we decided to start and raise a family, we moved to the Sunshine Coast, which is a great place for children to grow up, as it’s a collection of small and very safe communities nestled in among the great outdoors I so dearly love.

In addition to outdoor lifestyle, there are other socio-economic factors that attracted both Miho and myself to Canada. This part of the story is very similar to migration factors I noted in this article: Spinning the globe: Landing on Canada – A Guide to How We Became Vancouver Immigration Consultants [LINK]

A Diverse Economy Rich in Commodities  

Canada is rich in natural resources, from rare metals to timber, hydrogen production and more. The country was built on a frontier spirit, but now it needs foreign workers with the skills needed to transition to a carbon-neutral economy. As immigration consultants in Vancouver (and the Sunshine Coast) we are perfectly placed to help you move to British Columbia or Alberta, the two western-most Provinces that are so resource rich.

Tolerance and the rule of law

Canada’s immigrants help to shape a country where tolerance and the rule of law are valued. Corruption is rare, and institutions like banks are regulated and stable. Liberal democratic values in the government are designed to (hopefully) benefit every Canadian, however recently they’ve become a resident.

Opportunity knocks 

Canada gives immigrants the ability to seek a better life, whether that be pursuing new opportunities, building a business, owning a home or starting a family. Networks of global migrants cultivate new connections and innovation thrives. Fresh air, clean water and strong environmental protection means that Canada’s beauty is accessible to all.  

Canada is by no means perfect, but it is a place where new immigrants can contribute to a stronger, more inclusive country by rubbing shoulders with other Canadians, bringing economic benefits through experience and knowledge, contributing to the tax base and receiving world class education and health care.

/by

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) — Top Reasons for Refusal

Top Reasons for LMIA Application Refusals and Rejections

Top 5 Reasons for LMIA refusal

An LMIA, or Labor Market Impact Assessment, is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that allows an employer in Canada to hire a foreign worker. LMIA applications can be refused for various reasons, but here are the top five common reasons for refusal:

#1 – Insufficient or inadequate recruitment efforts e.g.; non-continuous advertising or erroneous NOC code analysis

ESDC expects employers to make genuine efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents before seeking foreign workers. If it is believed that the employer has not made sufficient efforts to recruit locally or has not advertised the job adequately, the LMIA application may be refused.

ESDC have stringent rules on the duration that recruitment advertisement must run and that they run continuously.  A failure to fully meet these requirements can result in refusal.

Another common mistake in LMIA recruitment drives is to fail to advertise in appropriate publications where Canadians might be seeking employment.  For example an LMIA application that is recruiting for a specialist occupation such as a Visual Effects Compositor or a Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) role would necessitate that the recruitment advertisements run in the relevant publications, journals and website that are relevant to that particular field.

It is also important that each component of the recruitment drive have unique value and reach different audiences   and national in scope.

#2 – Not meeting the prevailing wage (believe it or not)

Wage and Working Conditions: The employer must offer wages and working conditions that are consistent with prevailing labor market standards in the specific occupation and region. If the wages or working conditions do not meet the minimum requirements, the LMIA can be refused.

It is best practise to slightly exceed the prevailing wage for a given occupation by a few cents if possible as the prevailing wage associated with a particular training, education, experience and responsibilities (TEER) code can and do change periodically.

#3 – Incomplete application

Insufficient or Inaccurate Information: If the application is incomplete, contains inaccurate information, or fails to provide all the required supporting documents, ESDC may refuse the LMIA.

An example of this for high wage applications is failing to include the mandatary transition plan or in the case of low wage occupations falling to include information on housing, transportation and employment agreement.

#4 – Not meeting program requirements

A genuine and acute skills shortage is a perquisite to apply for an LMIA, if it is not the case then the Service Canada office will quickly discover this and refuse the application.

Impact on the Canadian Labor Market: ESDC assesses whether hiring a foreign worker for the specific job will have a positive or negative impact on the Canadian labor market. If the assessment shows that hiring a foreign worker may negatively affect job opportunities for Canadians or permanent residents, the LMIA may be refused.

Ineligible Occupations: Certain occupations may be ineligible for an LMIA due to policy considerations or labor market conditions. ESDC maintains a list of occupations that are ineligible or have specific restrictions, and applying for an LMIA for one of these occupations can result in a refusal.

For low wage occupations not meeting the cap on the proportion of low wage occupation positions that are foreign workers is a common reason for refusal.

#5 – Ill-preparedness for the interview

It’s crucial for employers to prepare for the employer interview with ESDC.  The Service Canada agents use the interview to cross examine the information in the application.  The employer ideally should have an annotated copy of the application to hand for the interview and have intimate knowledge of the rationale for making an application, a detailed knowledge of the job description and prevailing wage and recruitment drive.

Failing to prepare for the interview can be preparing to fail.

In conclusion then it’s crucial for employers to carefully review the LMIA application requirements, conduct thorough recruitment efforts, offer competitive wages and working conditions, and ensure that all necessary documentation is included to maximize the chances of approval.

The LMIA application processing fee is $1000 per applicant and the consequences of a delay at best or at worst not getting it approved and leaving an acute skills shortage unfilled for a business in need is a severe consequence of having an application refused.

Consulting with a qualified immigration professional or legal expert can also be beneficial in navigating the LMIA application process. Keep in mind that the rules and regulations regarding LMIA may change over time, so it’s essential to refer to the most up-to-date guidelines provided by ESDC or the Canadian immigration authorities.

/by

Spinning the Globe: Landing on Canada – A Guide to How We Became Vancouver Immigration Consultants

Vancouver Immigration Consultant - CIP Canada - Spinning the Globe: Landing on Canada – A Guide to How We Became Vancouver Immigration Consultants

Vancouver immigration consultants spinning the globe

I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my father. He spun our blue and tan globe, I closed my eyes, and ran my finger along its surface until it stopped. When I opened my eyes I was pointing at Canada.

We would play this game often and he’d tell me stories about the countries to which my finger pointed. I’d learn about its weather, what it produced, and its religion, politics and more. It was the beginning of a lifelong passion for travel and adventure – and, later, a purpose. A purpose summed up by this memory: I remember asking him why there were so many lines on the map, and whether you could cross them.

More than 15 years after we started our own business we are still helping others navigate immigration borders. Helping people realize their dreams of a better future is the “why?” behind Canada Immigration Partners. To this day we still get the same amount of enjoyment at helping people achieve that happiness, which is why we are still Vancouver immigration consultants in 2023. 

You might recognize your own motivations for immigration to Canada below, or in my story on how I immigrated to Canada. If you can relate, we are well placed to help you permanently cross those lines on the globe. Immigration is a narrative with human relationships at its core. Let Canada Immigration Partners contribute to your story.

Vancouver Immigration Consultants, our take on why people immigrate

I’ve been fortunate enough to realize my childhood dreams of travel and adventure. Wherever I went there were immigration stories happening right in front of me. Now, I get to hear those stories on a daily basis. Understanding them is at the core of a successful immigration plan.

Vancouver Immigration Consultant Matthew Sell and Miho Shimizu

Economic Betterment

When I was 12 years old my Dad took me on a motorcycle trip to Spain. From the back of his bike I remember seeing North African immigrants cooking over an open fire with only tarps for shelter, undergoing considerable hardship in pursuit of the opportunity to seek a better life.

Years later, I taught English in Hong Kong. Visiting Central Park Avery on Sundays, I would see hundreds of Filipino workers sitting on blankets with picnic baskets and talking to one another in Tagalog. Many had left home in order to earn money that they would then send home to their families.

According to the World Economic Forum: “Migration is motivated, first and foremost, by lack of economic opportunities at home.” It’s also a win-win situation: despite representing just 3.4% of the population, immigrants are responsible for over 9% of global GDP. Thankfully, enlightened countries like Canada recognize that fact.

To Avoid Inefficiency or Corruption

While in India at 18 years old, I waited for nearly six hours in a stuffy room with a tired fan watching my passport being passed from desk to desk. I was attempting to get a visa that would let me cross a line on the map – only to be told that the officer whose stamp I needed to complete the application had gone home and wouldn’t be back till tomorrow morning. As it turns out a bribe would have gotten me a visa in less than half the time.  

Canada’s bureaucratic process is not as difficult to navigate as India’s, but it can be incredibly complex. Applying for immigration to Canada has been compared to removing your own appendix with an incomplete “how-to” manual. You might pull it off, but you’d be a lot better off with professional help. 

An international education and a path to residency

At university in Oxford, I was privileged to learn alongside a host of students from all around the world. Each offered a different perspective and made my university experience so much richer.  

Canada hosts more than 600,000 international students each year and provides a route to permanent residency through study and the Postgraduate Work Permit program. If that’s a channel you’re interested in exploring, we’ve got a full guide. 

Talent ignores borders

A stint with an investment bank gave me a front row seat to the cosmopolitan nature of talent, where specialist and knowledgeable workers at the top of their fields came from all corners of the globe. I quickly came to recognize its importance in bridging cultural divides and fueling innovation. 

So has the Canadian government. Canadian businesses are experiencing severe talent shortages across industries and regions. Those skills gaps are set to increase as an aging workforce retires. The Global Talent Stream, Temporary Foreign Worker Program and a host of trade agreements have been established to encourage immigration and ease the shortage. They’re important routes for working in Canada and moving towards permanent residency. 

Security

More recently, we’ve been receiving urgent calls and emails from families in Afghanistan, Ukraine and Russia wanting to learn more about how to move to Canada. It has highlighted the peace and security on offer in this country that many Canadians take for granted.

Canada Immigration Partners — removing borders to your Canadian immigration dream. Your Vancouver Immigration Consultants Partners

By sharing my backstory, love of travel and helping people, and by highlighting the driving factors motivating migration hopefully you are informed enough about our honest motivations and love of giving other people the same joy we felt and winning our permanent residency and then citizenship. Every time we receive a card or a testimonial from happy clients it always makes us smile.

/by

Immigrate to Canada: How IRCC Used to Process Applications in Vegreville

Immigrate to Canada

Many years ago, on a road trip home to Vancouver from Regina, I stopped at one of the country’s immigration case-processing centres in Vegreville, Alberta. This office closed in 2018, with much of the staff being relocated to Edmonton. Prior to this, it’s where many people wanting to immigrate to Canada would have submitted their applications.

Centralization and ‘cost-cutting’ is nothing new, but AI is presenting novel changes when it comes to case processing efficiencies.

This blog post takes a look at the human side of Canadian immigration case processing. Part 2 will look at its increasing digitization and how a machine is still likely to think like a human as it has been created by one.

The importance, I believe, of this blog post is it highlights the work of a case processing officer and the need for your application to be detailed in how you meet the program requirement and supported with as much evidence and documentation as possible if you want to successfully immigrate to Canada.

Once Upon a Time in the West

The former case-processing centre at Vegreville dealt with Family Sponsorship, Permanent Residency and Temporary Residency applications.

I arrived at 7.30 am. I intended to just drive around the block, but it was such a beautiful morning I thought I’d get out and take some photos. As I did so, the immigration department employees started arriving for work: mainly middle-aged women with their Tim Horton’s coffee cups, replete with ID lanyards around their necks. As I took photos, the centre manager came out and asked if I was press or if I had submitted an application to this Canadian immigration centre. He mentioned that people would drive across the country to find out the status of their Canadian immigration application.

I answered his questions and told him that I was a regulated Canadian immigration consultant, that we (Miho and myself) had applications in process at the centre, and that I was passing by and wanted to take a look at this fabled institution for myself.  It’s worth noting at that point in time, we were sending nearly all our applications to Vegreville. This Immigration.ca article does a great job of explaining the work carried out at the centre and how it helped people immigrate to Canada.

Meanwhile, back in Vegreville… Once he [the manager] knew I wasn’t press or a disgruntled client, he invited me in for a tour of the facilities and to see for myself Citizenship and Immigration processing in action. He walked me through the processes involved from start to finish.

A Bureaucratic Journey: How Visa Officers Used to Process Your Immigration Application

The first stop was the mailroom, where all incoming applications were received, date stamped and collected into bundles to be assigned to visa officers.

After seeing the entry point for Canadian immigration applications, we walked through a massive office, lit with overhead neon lights, that was divided into cubicles containing large tables. Visa officers, with glasses perched on their noses, sat with their coffees in front of them, with red pens in hand, ticking, crossing and annotating paper applications that were being cross-referenced for completeness against a checklist.

Because Canadian visa officers have a defined quota of applications they need to process each day, the completeness check is an integral part of how IRCC employees approach their job. It is far quicker to return an incomplete application than to check off numerous complete applications. Therefore, they look for anomalies in order to fulfil their quota. The point of highlighting this is not to discredit visa officers but to underscore the need for applicants to submit complete and accurate applications. This is where we can help. 

After this walk-through, we went to his office, drank coffee and talked about the opposite ends of the same industry in which we work. We discussed issues such as program integrity, processing times, and IRCC communications that I can remember.

All told, this tour and conversation lasted less than an hour, but it gave me an invaluable experience into the working of the very system that is Miho’s and my lifeblood. 

I share this story for a number of reasons:

  1. Firstly because of the invaluable insight into the workings of how the Canadian government processes people’s applications to immigrate to Canada.
  2. Because it underscores the people processing your applications are as human as you and I.
  3. That attention to detail, evidencing relationships, and submitting information in a timely manner are incredibly important.
  4. Ultimately, visa officers are looking for reasons to refuse an application, not because it’s personal, but because it helps them achieve their daily work quota.

The advent of AI (artificial intelligence) and machine learning will expedite this process but not replace humanity’s involvement, nor will the portals and online harvesting of information be perfect, nor change the fact your application needs to be complete and decision-ready.

Where online submissions have helped applicants, either by submitting their own applications or through using registered Canadian immigration consultants, is that you cannot submit an incomplete application online, whereas one could be mailed, then returned to you, then resubmitted. All of which added time and money to the process.

In part two, however, we will look at the issues online-only applications have when, for example, you are locked out of your account and are unable to submit information before the deadline.

If you feel that a Canada immigration consultation would be beneficial, get in touch with us.

 

/by