Introduction
Canada’s immigration system is designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy. To qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under the Express Entry system, applicants must score at least 67 points out of 100 on a selection grid. This guide will explain how to achieve these points and increase your chances of successful migration to Canada.
Selection Factors for the Federal Skilled Worker Program
The FSWP uses a points-based system that assesses applicants based on six selection factors:
Education
Language Skills
Work Experience
Age
Arranged Employment in Canada
Adaptability
Education
Education is a key factor in the points system. The higher your education level, the more points you can earn.
Doctoral (PhD) level: 25 points
Master’s level or professional degree: 23 points
Two or more post-secondary credentials (at least one for a program of three years or longer): 22 points
Post-secondary credential (three years or longer): 21 points
Two-year post-secondary credential: 19 points
One-year post-secondary credential: 15 points
Secondary school (high school) diploma: 5 points
To maximize your points, ensure your educational credentials are recognized by Canadian authorities through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Language Skills
Language proficiency is assessed in two official languages: English and French. Points are awarded based on your performance in language tests like IELTS or CELPIP for English and TEF for French.
First Official Language (maximum 24 points):
CLB 9 or higher: 6 points per ability (reading, writing, speaking, listening)
CLB 8: 5 points per ability
CLB 7: 4 points per ability
Second Official Language (maximum 4 points):
CLB 5 or higher: 4 points (must achieve CLB 5 in all four abilities)
To achieve maximum points, focus on improving your language skills and obtaining high scores on the relevant tests.
Work Experience
Work experience in skilled occupations is another crucial factor. Points are awarded based on the number of years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience.
6 or more years: 15 points
4-5 years: 13 points
2-3 years: 11 points
1 year: 9 points
Ensure your work experience is in an occupation classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill levels 0, A, or B.
Age
Age is a factor that can contribute significantly to your points total. The younger you are, the more points you can earn.
18-35 years: 12 points
36 years: 11 points
37 years: 10 points
38 years: 9 points
39 years: 8 points
40 years: 7 points
41 years: 6 points
42 years: 5 points
43 years: 4 points
44 years: 3 points
45 years: 2 points
46 years: 1 point
47 years and older: 0 points
Arranged Employment in Canada
Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost your points.
Valid job offer: 10 points
The job offer must be for continuous, paid, full-time work that lasts for at least one year. It should be in a skilled occupation (NOC skill levels 0, A, or B) and meet the requirements set by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
See Also: Everything You Need to Know: Do I Need a Degree to Immigrate to Canada?
Adaptability
Adaptability measures how well you and your spouse/common-law partner are likely to settle in Canada. Various factors contribute to adaptability points, with a maximum of 10 points available.
Spouse or common-law partner’s language level: 5 points
Previous study in Canada: 5 points
Spouse or common-law partner’s previous study in Canada: 5 points
Previous work in Canada: 10 points
Spouse or common-law partner’s previous work in Canada: 5 points
Arranged employment: 5 points
Relatives in Canada: 5 points
Strategies to Achieve 67 Points
Improve Your Language Skills: Take language courses to improve your English or French proficiency. High scores on language tests can make a significant difference in your overall points.
Enhance Your Education: Consider obtaining additional post-secondary credentials or certifications recognized by Canadian authorities.
Gain More Work Experience: Accumulate more years of skilled work experience to maximize your points in this category.
Secure a Job Offer: Look for employment opportunities in Canada that offer valid job offers, which can add 10 points to your score.
Leverage Adaptability Factors: If you or your spouse have previous work or study experience in Canada or have relatives in Canada, ensure you include this information in your application.
Age Planning: If you are close to a birthday that might reduce your points, consider submitting your application before your next birthday to retain the higher age points.
Conclusion
Achieving 67 points for Canada migration under the Federal Skilled Worker Program requires careful planning and strategic efforts. By focusing on improving your language skills, enhancing your education, gaining relevant work experience, securing a valid job offer, and leveraging adaptability factors, you can increase your chances of meeting the minimum points requirement. Thoroughly prepare your application and consider seeking advice from immigration experts to maximize your success.
FAQs
Can I still apply if I don’t have 67 points?
If you do not have 67 points, you are not eligible to apply under the FSWP. However, you may explore other immigration pathways such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
How long are language test results valid for Express Entry?
Language test results are valid for two years from the date of the test. Ensure your test results are valid when you submit your Express Entry profile.
Can my spouse’s qualifications help improve my points?
Yes, your spouse’s language skills, previous study or work experience in Canada, and relatives in Canada can contribute to your adaptability points and help improve your overall score.
Related topics:
