Express Entry candidates understand the importance of a strong Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. These points determine who receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. One way to boost your score is through “arranged employment,” but the specifics can be confusing. This post clarifies eligibility requirements for each Express Entry program (FSWP, CEC, FSTP) and offers insights into the current job market.
Why Arranged Employment Matters
A valid job offer in Canada can grant you 50 or even 200 CRS points, significantly improving your chances of receiving an ITA. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has strict criteria for what constitutes a qualifying offer. Let’s break it down by program:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) & Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- Occupation Matters: The job offer must be in a National Occupation Classification (NOC) 2021 code with a Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) level of 0, 1, 2, or 3. These categories represent occupations requiring higher skill levels.
- Job Specifics: The offer must be continuous, full-time (minimum 30 hours/week), non-seasonal, and valid for at least one year after you receive your permanent resident visa.
- LMIA: The employer must have a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) specifically approving the offer for you or a work permit issued based on an LMIA. This ensures the job wasn’t created solely to fulfill immigration requirements.
Current Job Market Considerations: Statistics Canada reports a national job vacancy rate of 6.2% in March 2024, highlighting a strong demand for skilled workers. NOC 2021 Level 0, 1, and 2 occupations – including healthcare workers, software engineers, and construction trades – show particularly high vacancy rates. Aligning your skills with these in-demand areas can make your candidacy more attractive.
Foreign Nationals Already in Canada:
- Existing Work Permit: If you have a valid LMIA-based work permit and are currently working for the employer listed on it, you may be eligible for CRS points. You must be authorized to work in Canada throughout the application process and receive a full-time job offer upon receiving permanent residency.
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permit: For certain NOC 2021 TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 jobs, an LMIA exemption may apply. Here, you can still claim CRS points if you’ve worked full-time with the employer for a year and have a valid job offer for at least one year after receiving your PR visa.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
- Skilled Trade Focus: The job offer(s) must total at least 30 hours a week (potentially from two employers) and be for continuous, full-time skilled trade work (qualifying NOC) lasting a minimum of one year.
- LMIA Requirements Similar: Similar to FSWP/CEC, the employer(s) need a positive LMIA or a work permit issued based on one.
Existing Work Permit Considerations:
Similar to FSWP/CEC, existing LMIA-based work permit holders need to be employed by the listed employer and maintain work authorization throughout the process. The full-time job offer upon receiving PR status must be for at least one year and in the same three-digit NOC level as your current job.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit with Skilled Trade:
Foreign nationals with a valid LMIA-exempt work permit in a skilled trade can claim CRS points if they meet similar criteria as the FSWP/CEC LMIA-exempt category.
Important Reminders:
- A work permit itself doesn’t qualify as a job offer for CRS points.
- The job offer should be recent, written, and detailed (pay, duties, hours).
- An LMIA (unless exempt) is required, and the offer cannot come from a Canadian embassy/consulate.
Conclusion:
Understanding the intricacies of arranged employment for Express Entry can be challenging. By researching in-demand occupations, aligning your skills, and ensuring your job offer meets IRCC’s criteria, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA and immigrating to Canada. Remember, staying updated on labor market trends can give you an edge in this competitive environment.
