Apr 24, 2024 | Business Immigration, Canadian Experience Class, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Federal Skilled Trades, Humanitarian & Compassionate, Permanent Residency, Processing Times
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a standardized system used to classify and categorize occupations in Canada. This system is used for various purposes, including immigration, labor market research, and wage reporting. For immigrants to Canada, the NOC is an essential tool for understanding their eligibility for certain immigration programs and for finding work in their field.
What is the NOC?
The NOC is a five-tiered hierarchical structure that classifies occupations based on their skill level, education, training, and experience requirements. There are 10 broad occupational categories, 45 major groups, 89 minor groups, 162 minor groups, and 516 unit groups. Each unit group is assigned a unique four-digit NOC code.
How is the NOC used for immigration?
The NOC is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess the eligibility of applicants for certain immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system. The NOC code of an applicant’s occupation is one of the factors that is used to calculate their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. A higher CRS score means that an applicant is more likely to be invited to apply for permanent residency.
How can I find my NOC code?
There are a few ways to find your NOC code. You can search for it by job title using the NOC website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility/find-national-occupation-code.html, or you can browse the NOC structure by occupational category. You can also find your NOC code in job postings.
What are some tips for using the NOC for immigration?
- Make sure you are using the correct NOC code. The NOC was updated in 2021, so make sure you are using the most recent version of the code.
- Choose a NOC code that is closely related to your occupation. If you are not sure which NOC code to choose, you can contact an immigration consultant or job counselor.
- Be prepared to provide evidence of your work experience. When you apply for an immigration program, you will be asked to provide evidence of your work experience. This may include job letters, transcripts, and references.
The Most Common NOC Classifications for Immigrants to Canada
The following table shows the most common NOC classifications for immigrants to Canada in 2021:
Please note that this is just a small sample of the many NOC classifications that are relevant to immigrants to Canada. The best way to find the NOC code that is right for you is to search the NOC website or to contact an immigration consultant.
Additional tips for using the NOC for immigration
- Consider your skills and experience. When choosing a NOC code, it is important to consider your skills and experience. What are you good at? What experience do you have? Choose a NOC code that is a good match for your skills and experience.
- Research the job market. Once you have chosen a NOC code, it is important to research the job market for that occupation. Is there a demand for workers in that occupation? What are the average salaries for that occupation?
- Be prepared to adapt. The Canadian job market is different from the job market in many other countries. Be prepared to adapt your skills and experience to meet the needs of the Canadian workforce.
Conclusion
By understanding the NOC and how it is used for immigration, you can increase your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada and finding work in your field.
Mar 12, 2024 | Business Immigration, Canadian Experience Class, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Federal Skilled Trades, Humanitarian & Compassionate, Permanent Residency, Processing Times
Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence Canada (ITA)
If you are interested in becoming a Permanent Resident of Canada, you will need to be invited through an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This ITA is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). After receiving an ITA, applicants will have the chance to apply for Canadian permanent residence and bring their accompanying family members, such as their spouse or common-law partner and any dependent children, along with them.
Step-by-step process of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to immigrate to Canada:
1. Create an Express Entry profile to enter the Express Entry pool.
The first step involves submitting information about your skills, language ability, education, and work experience. If you meet the criteria for immigration to Canada, you will be placed in the Express Entry pool.
2. Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System score.
You will then be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information in your Express Entry profile. The CRS score is used to rank candidates based on their skills and other factors.
3. Boost Your CRS Score
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assigns points based on your human capital factors like skills, education, age, language proficiency, and work experience. A higher score increases your chances of receiving an ITA. Consider these strategies:
- Improve Language Skills: Aim for high scores on English or French language tests like IELTS or CELPIP. Strong language abilities are essential for integrating into Canadian society and the workforce.
- Gain Work Experience: Relevant Canadian or international experience boosts your score. Look for opportunities in fields listed in Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) for additional points.
- Pursue Higher Education: A Canadian degree, diploma, or relevant post-secondary qualification can be advantageous. Consider Canadian institutions or programs approved by Canadian education credential assessment services.
- Secure a Valid Job Offer: A job offer from a Canadian employer with LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) approval adds significant points and demonstrates your employability in Canada.
- Provincial Nomination: Receiving a nomination from a Canadian province/territory can significantly increase your CRS score. PNPs target skilled workers to address specific labor market needs. Research programs offered by provinces that align with your skills and experience.
4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if your score is above the cut-off threshold score.
IRCC regularly conducts draws inviting candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residence. The cut-off score for each draw varies depending on the number of applications received by IRCC.
If your CRS score is higher than the cut-off threshold score for that specific Express Entry draw, you will receive an ITA.
5. Submit a complete application for permanent residence (APR) in your online account.
Once you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence (APR) in your online account. This involves providing documents such as passport, language test scores, job offer letter, and more.
Read more about: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
6. Receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and/or a Permanent Residence Visa.
After your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and/or a Permanent Residence Visa.
7. Live and work in Canada as a Permanent Resident.
Finally, once you have your permanent residence visa, you can travel to Canada and live and work as a Permanent Resident.
National Occupational Classification (NOC) and Express Entry
The NOC is a system used by the Canadian government to categorize jobs based on skill level, type of work performed, and educational requirements. When creating your Express Entry profile, you’ll need to identify the NOC code that best reflects your primary work experience. Occupations in higher NOC skill levels (typically NOC 0, A or B under NOC 2016 or TEER levels 3, 4 or 5 under NOC 2021) are generally eligible for Express Entry.
Here’s how the NOC can influence your Express Entry profile:
- Eligibility: Choosing the correct NOC code ensures your work experience aligns with eligible occupations for Express Entry.
- CRS Points: Certain NOC codes may award more points under the CRS compared to others. Jobs requiring higher skill levels or those in high demand by Canadian employers tend to receive more points.
Research the NOC carefully and choose the code that most accurately reflects your main work duties. A mismatch can affect your eligibility or CRS score. You can find the NOC list and descriptions on the Employment and Social Development Canada website: Find your National Occupation Classification (NOC).
What Should You Do After You Receive an ITA
If you have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have only 60 days to put together and submit all of your required supporting documents. To ensure that you’re ready to apply and make the most of the two-month period, it is important to begin collecting and organizing the necessary documents ahead of time.
In case you are unable to submit your application within the 60-day period, you will have the option to re-enter the Express Entry pool and start the process over.
How to Get an Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence
To receive an ITA, you must first be eligible to immigrate by meeting the minimum requirements for the Express Entry pool. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is used to assess a candidate’s eligibility.
The CRS score ranks an individual based on:
- Skills
- Education
- Language ability
- Work experience,
- and other factors.
Invitations to apply (ITA) will be given to those with a minimum CRS score or higher of that specific Express Entry draw.
Read more about: Changes in Express Entry in 2023
Documents you will need to apply for Permanent Residency
You will need the following documents to apply for a Canadian Permanent Residence:
- Passport
- Language Test score results
- Birth Certificate
- Work experience documentation
- Police Verification report
- Upfront medical receipt
- Medical report
PNP programs may require additional documents, including:
- Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Proof of Funds
- Offer letter from a Canadian employer
- Provincial Nomination Certificate or territorial certificate of nomination
- Marriage certificates or divorce certificates (if applicable)
- Your Personal reference code
- Express Entry Profile Number
- Job seeker validation code
- Letter of recommendation from previous employers.
Not Getting an ITA?
If you don’t receive an ITA in this round, don’t be discouraged. Consider these options:
- Re-entering the Express Entry pool: Keep your profile updated and look for ways to improve your CRS score. Aim to gain more work experience, improve your language proficiency, or pursue further education.
- Exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Research targeted provincial nominations that align with your skills and experience. These programs can boost your CRS score and provide a direct path to permanent residence in a specific Canadian province.
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Apr 17, 2023 | Blog, Complete Representation, Express Entry, Family Immigration, How To, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, New Immigration Programs, Permanent Residency, Preparation of Application, Provincial Nominee Program, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers
Understanding Provincial Nomination Programs in Canada: Eligibility Requirements and Differences
Canada is known for its warm hospitality and has a range of opportunities for foreign nationals to call it their permanent home. One such opportunity is through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate foreign workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates for permanent residency. Each province and territory has its own unique PNP, with distinct eligibility requirements and selection criteria. To better understand the different eligibility requirements for these programs and how they differ from one another, read on.
What is a Provincial Nomination Program?
A Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) is a program designed to allow Canadian provinces and territories to select and nominate foreign nationals who are interested in settling in their region. PNPs were created to help address regional labor market shortages and attract talented individuals to Canada’s different provinces and territories.
Eligibility Requirements for Provincial Nomination Programs
The eligibility requirements for PNPs differ from province to province, but in general, they require candidates to have the following:
- Education and Language Proficiency: Most PNPs require candidates to have completed at least a high school education and to have demonstrated proficiency in either English or French, Canada’s official languages.
- Work Experience: PNPs require candidates to have a certain amount of work experience in their occupation, which varies by province and occupation.
- Age: PNPs typically target younger individuals who are likely to contribute to the labor market and the community for many years. The minimum age for PNPs is usually 18 years old, but some provinces require candidates to be between 21 and 45 years old.
- Job Offer: Most PNPs require candidates to have a job offer from an employer in the province. The job offer must be in an occupation that is in demand in the province.
- Adaptability: PNPs consider factors such as previous education or work experience in the province, family or friends in the province, and language skills in addition to the minimum eligibility requirements.
How do PNPs differ from each other?
PNPs differ from each other in terms of the eligibility requirements, the selection process, and the categories of candidates they target. Here are some of the main differences:
Eligibility Requirements:
Each province has its own set of eligibility requirements for PNPs. For example, the British Columbia PNP requires candidates to have a job offer in a skilled occupation, while the Saskatchewan PNP allows candidates without a job offer to apply for the program.
Selection Process:
PNPs use a point-based system to evaluate candidates based on factors such as education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and adaptability. However, the point system and selection criteria vary by province and can change over time.
Categories of Candidates:
Each PNP has its own categories of candidates, such as skilled workers, international graduates, entrepreneurs, or semi-skilled workers. Some PNPs prioritize certain categories over others, depending on the needs of the province.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) are an excellent way for foreign nationals to immigrate and settle in Canada. However, the eligibility requirements for PNPs differ by province, and candidates must carefully evaluate their eligibility before applying. It is essential to consult with an immigration consultant or lawyer to determine which PNP is the best fit for your qualifications and career aspirations. By understanding the different eligibility requirements and selection criteria for PNPs, candidates can increase their chances of being nominated and achieving their dream of living and working in Canada.
Mar 27, 2023 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Business Immigration, Canadian Employers, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Express Entry, Family Immigration, Help with Inadmissibility, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. It’s a pathway that
- helps skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs
- gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings
The Canadian government is taking steps to address labor shortages by supporting skilled refugees and other displaced individuals in building their careers in Canada. Through programs like the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), the government is providing more opportunities for qualified individuals to thrive in high-demand industries such as healthcare, skilled crafts, and information technology. By helping these individuals build their careers in Canada, the government hopes to alleviate labor shortages and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
EMPP benefits
The new federal pathway will make the application procedure simpler and quicker by requiring only one application and following uniform qualifying requirements. The majority of applications will be approved within 6 months, allowing applicants to travel to Canada and start employment immediately. The new pathway will supplement current EMPP pathways and provide companies with more chances to fill various in-demand positions such as teachers, hospitality employees, truck drivers, software engineers, and long-term care aides.
The EMPP will help you apply to specific economic immigration programs by making it easier for you to
- be eligible for an economic immigration program
- complete and submit your application
- start your new life in Canada
Through this pilot, the IRCC will:
- make it easier for you to apply and be eligible for the economic program you choose
- waive the application and biometric fees for you and any of your dependents
- review and process your application in 6 months or less (in most cases)
- cover the cost of your pre-departure medical services and medical exams through the Interim Federal Health Program
- let you use a loan to meet the financial requirements to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds)
- give you access to the Immigration Loans Program (ILP), if your application is approved, to help with
- travel costs
- some pre-arrival travel services from the International Organization for Migration that the ILP covers the fee for
- some start-up costs after you arrive in Canada (which is also available to other economic immigration applicants)
- the right of permanent residence fee
- let you access the Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme to help you integrate and settle in Canada
New opportunities
The EMPP offers eligible candidates the opportunity to resume their professions and lives in safety with their families in Canada while also supporting companies in meeting their labor market demands. The eligibility criteria have been expanded to include other displaced individuals who require international protection and lack a long-term solution. More details, including eligibility requirements, will be made available on the EMPP website in the upcoming weeks.
How will EMPP work?
Employers will be allowed to recruit refugees and displaced persons who qualify under any National Occupation Classification 2021 category TEER 0-5 according to the new government gateway. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that Canada will continue to develop innovative immigration measures to help employers address critical labor shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.
The IRCC states that the EMPP was created to help skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs to support Canadian labour market needs. This is the second phase of the EMPP. In the first phase of this pilot, they learned that skilled refugees can qualify for permanent residence through our economic programs with some help.
Starting December 3, 2021, EMPP phase 2 the IRCC will help settle up to 500 skilled refugees, and their families, in Canada.
The pilot combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. Before you apply for the EMPP, you’ll apply for 1 of these immigration programs:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Who can apply?
According to the IRCC:
There are 2 sets of eligibility requirements you must meet to apply for the EMPP.
1. You must be a refugee
To prove this, you must
- be a convention or country of asylum refugee.
- we’ll determine if you meet one of these definitions or
- one of our partners (TalentLift, Talent Beyond Boundaries or Jumpstart Refugee Talent) will give you a referral letter stating you do
- be outside Canada and your country of persecution
- have no durable solution in the country you’re living in
- have one of these documents, if you don’t have a referral letter from one of our partners:
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
2. Admissibility
You must be admissible to Canada.
3. You must be eligible for an economic immigration program
You must be eligible for one of the following economic immigration programs:
To qualify for 1 of these, you must have:
- English or French skills
- education or job training, and work experience
- a job offer from a Canadian employer for full-time work
If you want to apply for AIP or RNIPAs part of the EMPP, you don’t need to meet some eligibility requirements for these programs:
- You don’t need to prove you worked the number of hours asked for in the timeframes listed. Instead, you only need to show you worked the same number of hours in general, before you apply.
- You can apply for a loan to meet the requirement of having enough money to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds).
These exemptions do not apply to PNP. The province or territory decides the requirements for this program.
How to apply
You can apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
There are 7 partner organizations outside government that can help you
- connect to employers in Canada
- prepare for a job offer, then apply for the EMPP
Some partner organizations can issue a referral letter, which makes it faster and easier for you to apply. Other partner organizations can help you apply, but won’t affect the documents you need to use.
1. If you use a partner that can issue a referral letter
- they make sure you meet the definition of a refugee for the EMPP before you apply
- you need fewer forms and documents for your application
- you still need a job offer from a Canadian employer
Partners that can provide a referral letter include
2. If you use another partner or apply on your own:
- you have to submit proof of your current refugee situation with 1 of these
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
- you have to complete the Schedule 20 form
These other partners include
3. Complete the applications
There are 2 applications you must complete for the EMPP:
- One application for the economic immigration program:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- A second application for the EMPP.
You must submit both applications together.
There are now 2 ways you can apply:
- Online in the Permanent residence portal
- If you choose to apply online, you’ll complete and submit both online applications together.
- By email
- If you choose to apply by email, you must
- complete all forms for both applications and
- follow the EMPP instructions to submit them together
You can complete your applications yourself. If you decide to use an immigration representative, you can talk to one here: Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)
Quotes
“Canada is a global leader in helping skilled refugees connect with employers struggling to find workers in critical areas, while giving newcomers the opportunity to restart their careers and their lives here in Canada. Our government will continue to develop and scale innovative immigration measures to help employers address their critical labour shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to live in safety while rebuilding their lives.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“This is a solution for every hiring team in Canada. There are many thousands of women and men living as refugees globally who have enormous talent to contribute. Why not source your future colleagues from within refugee populations? You’ll find competitive skills, adaptability and creativity. These are people you want on your team. As visas get more seamless, Canada can become the world’s capital for hiring displaced talent.”
– Dana Wagner, Co-Founder and Managing Director, TalentLift
Check out: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
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Mar 8, 2023 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Business Immigration, Canadian Employers, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Express Entry, Family Immigration, Help with Inadmissibility, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
The basics of taxes in Canada
Taxes can be a complex and confusing topic for both residents and non-residents of Canada. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of taxes in Canada, including the difference between residents and non-residents and the different types of taxes that are applicable to each group.
Resident vs Non-Resident
The first thing to understand about taxes in Canada is the difference between residents and non-residents. A resident (or permanent resident) of Canada is someone who lives and works in Canada and is considered a Canadian for tax purposes. Non-residents, on the other hand, are individuals who do not live or work in Canada but may have income or investments in Canada.
Income Tax
Income tax is the primary tax that most individuals and businesses pay in Canada. The Canadian income tax system is based on a progressive tax system, which means that the more income you earn, the higher the percentage of tax you pay. For residents of Canada, income tax is based on worldwide income, which means that income earned from sources outside of Canada is also subject to Canadian income tax.
For non-residents of Canada, income tax is only applicable on income earned from Canadian sources. This includes income from employment, business, or investments in Canada. Non-residents are subject to a flat tax rate of 25% on their Canadian-sourced income, which is generally withheld at the source.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax that is applied to most goods and services sold in Canada. The current rate of GST is 5%. For residents of Canada, GST is included in the price of goods and services, and they are eligible to claim a credit for the GST paid on certain expenses. Non-residents of Canada may also be required to pay GST on goods and services purchased in Canada.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a mandatory retirement savings plan for residents of Canada. CPP contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada are not required to contribute to the CPP.
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) is a program that provides temporary financial assistance to workers who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to illness or injury. Like CPP, EI contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada may be eligible for EI benefits if they have worked in Canada and meet certain eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, taxes in Canada can be complex, but understanding the difference between residents and non-residents and the types of taxes that apply to each group is essential. If you are a resident of Canada, you are subject to income tax on your worldwide income, while non-residents are only subject to income tax on Canadian-sourced income. Other taxes, such as GST, CPP, and EI, may also apply depending on your circumstances. It is always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure that you are meeting your tax obligations and maximizing any available tax benefits.
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