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How to Qualify for Express Entry: Tips for Pakistani Applicants

Canada’s Express Entry system is a popular pathway for skilled workers from around the globe, including Pakistan, to apply for immigration. This system manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Pakistani applicants looking to settle in Canada can improve their chances of success by following a strategic plan. Here’s a simplified guide to help you understand the key steps and eligibility criteria.

1. Understanding the Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is based on a points system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where candidates are ranked. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

The Three Programs Under Express Entry:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

• For skilled professionals with work experience outside Canada.
• You need at least 67 points out of 100 in areas like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, adaptability, and job offer.

1. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

• Designed for applicants with experience in specific trades.
• Requires at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• For applicants with Canadian work experience. This is usually not relevant for those living outside Canada, such as most applicants from Pakistan.

2. Basic Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants

To qualify, you must meet these basic criteria:

1. Age

• Applicants between 18-35 years score the highest points for age.
• Older applicants receive fewer points, and those over 45 get no points for age.

1. Education

• You need at least a high school diploma to qualify, but a higher degree (like a university diploma or degree) will earn more points.
• Your Pakistani qualifications must be assessed by an organization such as World Education Services (WES) to confirm they meet Canadian standards.

1. Work Experience

• You must have at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled job, listed under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) in skill levels 0 (management), A (professional), or B (technical and skilled trades).

1. Language Proficiency

• You need strong proficiency in English or French. Most Pakistani applicants take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) to prove English skills.
• A high IELTS score is key to getting more CRS points, with a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 or higher being ideal.

1. Financial Requirements

• There is no fee to submit an Express Entry profile, but you must show proof of funds to cover your living costs in Canada, unless you have a job offer or are applying under the CEC program. For a single person, you’ll need around CAD 13,000, with extra for each family member.

1. Admissibility

• You must pass medical exams and background checks. Serious health issues or criminal records can affect admissibility.

3. Tips for Pakistani Applicants to Boost Their CRS Score

Your CRS score is critical in determining whether you’ll be selected. Here are some tips to improve it:

1. Improve Your Language Skills

• The easiest way to boost your score is by improving your language proficiency. Aim for a CLB 9 or higher in IELTS, which could significantly increase your points.
• Pro Tip: Consider taking IELTS preparation courses to improve your scores.

1. Pursue Higher Education

• Candidates with a Master’s or PhD get more CRS points. If you have a bachelor’s degree, think about continuing your education, perhaps through online courses.

1. Secure a Valid Job Offer in Canada

• A job offer from a Canadian employer can give you up to 200 CRS points. The job must be under NOC skill levels 0, A, or B and meet Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements.
• Pro Tip: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Job Bank, or Canadian job portals to search for jobs.

1. Apply for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

• Provinces in Canada can nominate applicants through PNPs. A nomination can add 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
• Pro Tip: Research PNPs that match your skills. Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia often seek skilled workers.

1. Gain More Work Experience

• The more skilled work experience you have, the more points you earn. Three or more years of work experience will maximize your score.
• Pro Tip: If you’ve only worked for one or two years, consider waiting to gain more experience before applying.

1. Improve Your Spouse’s Profile

• If you’re married, your spouse’s education, language skills, or Canadian work experience can increase your combined CRS score.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Express Entry

1. Check Eligibility
   Ensure you meet the criteria for education, work experience, and language skills.
2. Take a Language Test
   Complete an English or French language test (IELTS for most Pakistanis) and aim for high scores to maximize your CRS points.
3. Get Your Education Credentials Assessed
   Apply for an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify that your Pakistani qualifications meet Canadian standards.
4. Create an Express Entry Profile
   Once you have your test results and ECA report, create your Express Entry profile on the IRCC website. Your CRS score will be calculated based on your details.
5. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
   Express Entry draws are held regularly. If your CRS score is high enough, you’ll receive an ITA for permanent residency.
6. Submit Your PR Application
   After receiving your ITA, you have 60 days to submit your application with all required documents (like proof of funds, work experience letters, police certificates, and medical exams).
7. Wait for Processing
   Processing typically takes around six months, though IRCC may request additional documents during this time.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete documentation can lead to delays or rejection. Make sure everything is properly translated and authenticated.
• Many applicants lose points due to low language test scores. Retake the test if necessary to improve your results.
• Keep your proof of funds updated throughout the process to avoid complications.

Conclusion
Pakistani applicants can greatly improve their chances of qualifying for Canada’s Express Entry system by preparing thoroughly and focusing on increasing their CRS score. By enhancing your language skills, securing a valid job offer, applying to PNPs, and gaining more work experience, you can make your dream of living and working in Canada a reality.