September 6, 2023

Express Entry

If you’re interested in immigrating to Canada as a skilled professional, then it’s likely you’ve heard of the Express Entry system. One popular component of this system is category-based selection. In this article, we’ll delve into what category-based selection is, who’s eligible to apply, how to apply, and more.

Understanding Category-Based Selection
Category-based selection refers to the system by which candidates for immigration to Canada are chosen based on their skill sets. This selection process consists of several categories, each with its specific eligibility requirements.

The purpose of category-based selection is to identify and choose skilled professionals who will make a significant contribution to Canada’s economy.

Eligibility Criteria for Category-Based Selection
There are three categories for category-based selection:

  1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The eligibility criteria vary for each category, but in general, applicants need to meet certain requirements in terms of age, language proficiency, education, work experience, and skills.

For example, to be considered for the FSWP, an applicant must:

  • Have at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation
  • Score a minimum of 67 points out of 100 on the Canadian Immigration Points Grid
  • Meet the minimum language requirements in either English or French.

Application Process for Category-Based Selection
To apply for category-based selection, an applicant must first create an Express Entry profile. The profile summarizes an applicant’s qualifications and details about their work experience and academic history.

Once the profile is created, the applicant receives a comprehensive ranking score based on their qualifications. Based on their score, the applicant is then invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

As part of their application, an applicant may also need to provide supporting evidence or documents such as language proficiency test results, educational assessment reports, and job offers.

It’s essential to fill out and submit the application accurately and efficiently to ensure success during the selection process.

Points Calculation System
The Express Entry system is points-based, and applicants earn points based on various factors such as language ability, education, and work experience. Additional factors such as a job offer or provincial nomination can also earn extra points.

The total number of points earned provides a comprehensive ranking score used to determine an applicant’s eligibility for permanent residency.

Benefits of Category-Based Selection
The category-based selection process has several advantages for skilled professionals interested in immigrating to Canada. For instance:

  • Skill-based selection ensures Canada receives applicants who can make a significant contribution to the economy.
  • Fast processing times and point-based scoring mechanisms ensure efficient selection that’s fair to all applicants.
  • The security and stability of permanent residency provide a foundation for applicants to build their lives in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the eligibility requirement for Federal Skilled Trades Program?
    The applicant must have an offer of employment for a minimum period of one year in Canada or Certificate of Qualification from a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.
  • Can I receive extra points from the CEC category if I have work experience in Canada?
    Yes, you can receive extra points if you meet the requirements for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
  • What is the validity period for my Express Entry profile?
    Your Express Entry profile is typically valid for 12 months from the date of submission.

Conclusion
Category-based selection is an attractive and efficient pathway to permanent residency in Canada. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, skilled professionals can start their journey towards making a home in Canada.

August 23, 2023

 

Canada Visitor Visa

 

Do you intend to travel to Canada from India? Then, one of the most important things you must do is secure a Canadian tourist visa. A tourist visa is a legal document that grants you permission to visit Canada for leisure or enjoyment. We’ll go over all you need to know about Canadian tourist visas, including the Canada tourist visa criteria for Indian people, in this blog post.

 

Everything You Should Know About the Canada Tourist Visa

Indian Citizens’ Requirements for a Tourist Visa to Canada
The first step in applying for a Canadian tourist visa from India is to determine your eligibility. The prerequisites for Indian citizens are as follows:

1. Valid passport: You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after your stay in Canada.
2. Completed application form: The application form must be filled out correctly and completely.
3. Two recent passport-size pictures must be submitted with your application.
4. Proof of finances: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada.
5. Itinerary: You must submit a thorough itinerary of your travel plans, including hotel information.
6. Invitation letter (if applicable): If you are visiting a friend or relative in Canada, you must produce an invitation letter.
7. Biometrics: As part of the visa application procedure, Indian citizens must give biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

You can submit your application online or at the Best Immigration Consultants Office (Redstone Immigration Consultants Pvt. Ltd.) once you have gathered all of the needed documentation.

Indian citizens’ processing times for tourist visas to Canada
Season, the volume of applications received, and the intricacy of your case all affect how quickly your application will be processed for a Canadian tourist visa. An Indian tourist visa application for Canada typically takes two to four weeks to process.

Fees for Canadian tourist visas for citizens of India
A tourist visa for Canada costs CAD 100 per person. Additionally, there can be extra charges for the gathering of biometric data, VAC service fees, and delivery costs. When organising your vacation to Canada and requesting a tourist visa, it’s crucial to account for these extra costs.

Canada Tourist Visa Validity for Indian Citizens
Typically, a Canadian tourist visa is good for six months. However, the duration of validity may change based on the reason for your stay and the officer issuing the Canadian visa’s judgement. The visa officer may occasionally issue a visa with a validity period less than six months or issue a multiple-entry visa.

Canada Tourist Visa Extension for Indian Citizens
You can request for an extension if you want to stay in Canada longer than the duration of your visitor visa is valid. At least 30 days before your existing visa expires, you must submit an application for an extension. Please be aware that there is no assurance that your request for an extension will be granted.

Redstone can help you sort your Canada visitor visa requirements.
If you meet the requirements and have all the necessary paperwork, getting a tourist visa for Canada from India can be a simple process. Apply well in advance of the date of your intended trip to give yourself enough time for processing. We sincerely hope that this blog post has given you useful knowledge about India tourist visas for Canada. Contact Redstone for professional advice and support if you have any queries or need help with your visa application.