If you’re moving to Canada from Jamaica, one of the most widely used entryways is Express Entry. Express Entry swiftly provides eligible skilled workers with permanent residence in Canada. Below is a list of all the required steps to apply successfully to Express Entry, so you can join the almost 250,000 Jamaicans currently residing in Canada*.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is another citizenship program in Canada to attract skilled workers. Eligible candidates submit a “profile” for ranking through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The highest scores are considered for permanent residency. Candidates are ranked based on a few different factors: language proficiency, work experience, age, education, and others.
Every two weeks, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency. This is known as an Invitation to Apply (ITA); only the best-ranking candidates receive an ITA.
Who can apply for Express Entry?
Both individuals and families can apply for express entry within one of the three programs offered by the Canadian government:
- Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP)—This program is for skilled foreign workers who can effectively contribute to the Canadian economy. Candidates must meet the educational criteria, among other factors.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)—This program is for workers who have Canadian work experience within at least three years prior to applying for Express Entry.
- Federal Skilled Trade Program (FSTP)—This program is for skilled workers eligible to work within a specific trade in Canada. Candidates must have a job offer in Canada or a certificate of qualification.
If you meet the requirements of one of the above programs, then you can also apply for the Provincial Nominee Program. Getting nominated by this program can add points to your Comprehensive Ranking Score.
How to apply through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
If you already know which province you want to move to in Canada, then the PNP may benefit you. Sometimes, provinces can propose foreigners for long-term residence if they possess the required education, knowledge, and skills required by that province. You can apply directly with the province or through Express Entry.
There are many wonderful places for Jamaicans to live in Canada. Many Jamaicans choose to live in Ontario due to its multiculturalism and economic and educational opportunities. Plus, the city of Toronto is also very popular for Jamaicans moving to Canada.
How does Express Entry work?
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply through Express Entry and obtain permanent residency in Canada:
Step 1: Discover if you’re eligible for Express Entry.
First, you’ll need to discover if you’re eligible for Express Entry as determined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC.) You can review your eligibility for all three programs, which consider educational background, work experience, language skills, and more.
Step 2: Prove your language efficiency and complete an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Every Express Entry program requires you to take an English exam and occasionally a French test to be considered eligible. You must also have a foreign educational credential assessed by one of the IRCC’s Canada’s approved third parties.
Step 3: Submit your profile to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
After taking the language exam and receiving your ECA, you can create your Express Entry profile. Once you submit your profile, you’ll be placed in the general pool of applicants.
Step 4: Wait to see if you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
If you score high enough on the CRS, you may receive an Invitation to Apply. You can calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to see your likelihood of receiving an ITA.
There are draws for Express Entry about every two weeks, and there are three different types of draws:
- General rounds: This is for profiles with the highest-ranking CRS scores.
- Program-specific rounds: This is for candidates applying within a specific Express Entry program with the highest-ranking CRS scores.
- Category-based rounds: This is for high-ranking candidates who meet specific category requirements as created by Canada’s immigration minister to meet an economic goal.
Step 5: Submit your Application for Permanent Residence (APR).
If you receive an ITA, you will need to complete your Application for Permanent Residence within 60 days. You’ll need to provide your medical exam, biometrics, and other additional supporting documents. Once your application is uploaded, you will receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR.)
Step 6: Wait for a final decision from the IRCC.
It can take up to six months for the IRCC to decide on your application. If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent residence visa.
How long does Express Entry take?
Your Express Entry profile is valid for up to one year following submission. If you receive an ITA, candidates can wait up to six months for the Canadian government to process and review their applications. If you do not receive an ITA within one year of submitting your profile, then you can resubmit.
How much does Express Entry cost?
An express entry profile is free of charge; however, some application requirements cost money. There are fees to take the English and French language exams and to complete the Educational Credential Assessment. Plus, some individuals hire an immigration professional to assist with Express Entry.
How to send money from Canada to Jamaica
If you choose to send money to Jamaica from Canada, then Western Union’s app makes it easy to send money overseas. Whether you choose to send money as a gift or to assist with expenses, Western Union’s app makes it convenient. Simply download the app and upload your financial information and the recipient’s information. Then, watch your money transfer in real-time and get notified the moment it arrives.
If you do not yet have a Western Union account, don’t worry. It’s easy to create an account online or through the app. Once you’re registered, you can start sending money and tracking your money transfers with just a few more simple steps.
