top of page

Explore the Services Offered

at Irwin Immigration Services

OUR SERVICES

Image by frank mckenna

TOP10 FAQ on immigration to Canada

  • What are the main pathways to immigrate to Canada?
    The primary pathways to immigrate to Canada include: Express Entry: A system for managing applications for three economic immigration programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class). Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in a particular province. Family Sponsorship: Allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members. Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers: Quebec has its own immigration programs. Start-up Visa: For entrepreneurs who have the skills and potential to build businesses in Canada. Study and Work Permits: Pathways through studying and then working in Canada.
  • What is Express Entry, and how does it work?
    Express Entry is an online system used to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It has three main programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Candidates create an online profile and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence are issued to the highest-ranking candidates.
  • What are the eligibility requirements for Express Entry?
    The eligibility requirements for Express Entry include: Age: Generally, candidates between 18 and 35 years old score higher. Education: Higher education levels earn more points. Work Experience: Skilled work experience is required. Language Proficiency: High scores in English and/or French language tests. Adaptability: Points for factors like previous study or work in Canada, or family members in Canada.
  • How does the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) work?
    The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in a particular province. Each province has its own criteria and streams, often aligned with the federal Express Entry system. Candidates can apply directly to a province's PNP or be nominated from the Express Entry pool.
  • Can I sponsor my family members to come to Canada?
    Yes, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain family members, such as spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents. Sponsors must meet income requirements and agree to financially support the sponsored family member(s).
  • What is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and can I increase my score?
    The CRS score is a points-based system used to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and additional factors like a job offer or provincial nomination. The maximum CRS score is 1,200 points. Language proficiency test: The number one way to increase your CRS score is to retake your language test (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF). Improving your score on your language test will immediately increase your overall points. Work Experience: Many candidates don’t leverage their work experience. Choosing the right combination of work experience in Canada and/or overseas is one of the simplest ways to increase your score. Education: Even though going back to school is an investment, it can make an impact on your CRS score. A short program like a one-year post-secondary certificate could earn you a lot of additional CRS points. Our RCIC after meticulous assessment of your profile may suggest the best option or options available for you to move forward.
  • How can international students immigrate to Canada?
    International students can apply for a Study Permit to study at a designated learning institution in Canada. After graduation, they may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). With Canadian work experience, they can apply for permanent residence through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
  • What are the language requirements for Canadian immigration?
    Language proficiency in English and/or French is a key requirement for many immigration programs. Applicants need to take a recognized language test (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF or TCF for French) and achieve the required scores, which vary by program. Higher scores can significantly improve the chances of being selected.
  • What is the process for applying for permanent residence in Canada?
    The process varies by program but generally includes: Determine Eligibility: Check if you meet the requirements for a specific program. Submit an Application: Create an online profile (for Express Entry) or submit an application to the relevant program. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): High-ranking candidates in Express Entry receive ITAs. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide required documents like passports, language test results, educational credentials, work experience letters, etc. Medical Exam and Police Checks: Undergo medical examinations and obtain police certificates. Receive Decision: IRCC reviews the application and makes a decision. Landing in Canada: If approved, complete the landing process and become a permanent resident.
  • How long does the immigration process take?
    Processing times vary depending on the program and individual circumstances. For Express Entry, the target is six months from the date of submission of a complete application. Other programs, like the PNP or Family Sponsorship, may take longer. It's important to check current processing times on the IRCC website. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/index.asp
bottom of page