Immigration Corner | Thinking about Canada?

Dear Miss Powell,

I read your articles all the time, and I have been thinking of applying to live in Canada for a while, but I am not sure if I should apply under the Express Entry System. I am 29 years old with a daughter and a mother that I must think about. Do you think now is a good time to apply? Or should I wait until my daughter is older and ready for school? I look forward to reading my answer in The Gleaner. Thank you.

ON

Dear ON

If you are thinking of applying to live permanently in Canada under the Express Entry System, then now is the time to do so. I am going to outline below several reasons for you to consider.

1. STREAMLINED AND EFFICIENT PROCESS

The Express Entry System is the fastest, most economical, and efficient way to apply to live in Canada. The government had a target of processing applications in six months or less. However, the average processing time is approximately six months to a year, which is still faster than most of the other immigration processes. This quick turnaround is particularly beneficial for those looking to start their new life in Canada as soon as possible.

2. HIGH DEMAND FOR SKILLED WORKERS

Canada has a strong demand for skilled workers to support its growing economy. The Express Entry System prioritises candidates with the skills and experience that are in high demand. You did not indicate your occupation, however, by applying now, you can take advantage of the current labour market needs and increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply or permanent residency under the Express Entry System. The Express Entry System manages programmes such as the Federal Skilled Worker Programme and the Federal Skilled Trades Programme along with the Provincial Nominee Programme, and applicants are invited to apply for permanent residence based on their scores.

3. COMPREHENSIVE RANKING SYSTEM

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is used to rank applicants in the pool of candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors such as connection to Canada. The higher your CRS score, the better your chances receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. By applying now, you can enter the pool and potentially improve your score over time by gaining additional qualifications such as receiving a job offer from an employer with a Labour Market Impact Assessment report or receiving a provincial nomination.

4. FAMILY INCLUSION

The Express Entry System allows you to include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application. This means that you would receive confirmation of permanent residence at the same time. If you are concerned about childcare, you should note that Canada has childcare benefits (CCB) that grant parents assistance with their children. CCB is a tax-free monthly payment delivered to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. There are also incentives to save for your child’s post-secondary education through the Registered Education Savings Plan. Depending on the province in which you chose to live, you may be able to get additional support such as subsidised daycare. Applying now makes it easier for families to immigrate together and start their new life in Canada as a unit and have access to benefits sooner.

Although you cannot include your mother in this application, once you are in Canada, you can apply for a super visa for her. A super visa authorises a parent or grandparent to visit their children or grandchildren for five years at a time. It is a visa that provides multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years. What this means for you is that you can apply for a super visa for your mother to stay with you until you qualify to sponsor her under the parents and grandparents’ sponsorship programme.

5. CHANGES IN IMMIGRATION POLICIES

Immigration policies can change at any time, and these changes can impact your eligibility or the ease of the application process. We have seen recently that Canada has announced a number of changes to its temporary and permanent immigration policies. Over the last three years, more than 400,000 people have become permanent residents. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced recently that the annual intake number is now set to fall to 365,000 by 2027. I strongly recommend that you apply now to avoid potential future restrictions or changes that my make it more difficult to immigrate to Canada.

6. GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

Canada is known for its high quality of life, economic stability, and excellent healthcare and education systems. In times of global uncertainty, having a stable and secure place to live becomes even more important. Furthermore, Canada has a reputation as being a safe and welcoming country that protects its citizens. Applying now can provide you with peace of mind and a secure future for you and your family, with the opportunity to apply for citizenship within five years of landing in Canada as a permanent resident. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start enjoying all the benefits of being a Canadian.

Deidre S. Powell is a lawyer, mediator and notary public in Canada. You may connect with her via telephone/WhatsApp 613-695-8777. You may also request a Zoom/telephone consultation with her to find out more about Canadian immigration.