Canada’s Skilled Worker Visa, officially known as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), is part of the Express Entry system. It allows skilled immigrants to apply for permanent residence in Canada based on their ability to contribute to the economy. Here’s an overview of the key aspects:

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Work Experience:

   • At least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience in the last 10 years in a skilled occupation (NOC skill type 0, A, or B).

2. Language Proficiency:

   • Prove your language ability in English or French with a minimum score in writing, reading, listening, and speaking. This can be demonstrated through approved language tests such as IELTS, CELPIP (English), or TEF, TCF (French).

3. Education:

   • A Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree, or an equivalent foreign credential. Foreign credentials must be assessed by an authorized agency to verify they are valid and equal to Canadian standards.

4. Proof of Funds:

   • Demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada, unless you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

5. Admissibility:

   • You must be admissible to Canada, meaning you should not have a criminal record or be a security risk.

6. Settlement Plan:

   • Show that you intend to live outside the province of Quebec, as Quebec has its own selection criteria for skilled workers.

Selection Factors

Applicants are assessed on a points system, where you need to score at least 67 points out of 100. The selection factors include:

• Age: Maximum points are given to individuals aged 18-35.
• Education: Higher points for higher levels of education.
• Work Experience: More points for more years of work experience.
• Language Skills: Points are awarded based on your proficiency in English and/or French.
• Adaptability: Points for factors that help you adapt to life in Canada, such as previous work or study in Canada, having family in Canada, or your spouse’s qualifications.
• Arranged Employment: Extra points if you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

Application Process

1. Express Entry Profile:

   • Create an Express Entry profile online where you provide details about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.

2. Invitation to Apply (ITA):

   • Based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, you may receive an ITA to apply for permanent residence.

3. Permanent Residence Application:

   • Submit a complete application for permanent residence, including all required documents and fees, within 60 days of receiving an ITA.

4. Processing Time:

   • The processing time for Express Entry applications is usually around six months.

5. Decision:

   • If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa.