Do you know that in 2023, over 120,000 candidates became permanent residents in Canada through the Express Entry Program? This number represents the significance of this immigration program in Canada’s migration.
This immigration system is designed to fast-track the immigration process while easing and streamlining the application process. But, like every other system, the Express Entry system also has its nuances, through which experienced and freshers make mistakes while applying for a Canada PR Visa from India.
If you plan to apply for PR in Canada through this immigration system, make sure to avoid the common mistakes outlined in this article.
Top 7 mistakes to avoid when applying through the Express Entry Program
The reason of rejection for your application process can be anything. However, below we have listed some of the top mistakes which every candidate should avoid when applying for a Canada PR Visa through the Express Entry Program:
Unable to Understand the Eligibility Criteria
One of the earliest errors most applicants commit is not understanding the eligibility requirements for Express Entry. There are three principal federal economic programs in Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Every program has its conditions regarding work experience, language skills, education, and flexibility. Failure to fulfil them results in your application being outrightly rejected.
Tip: Before applying, please check the eligibility criteria for the program you’re applying to. Make sure you fulfil all the required conditions before uploading your profile.
Underestimating the Significance of Correct Documentation
One of the most frequent errors is filing incomplete or incorrect documents. Your Express Entry profile will ask you to provide several documents, including language test results, educational qualifications, work experience, and evidence of funds. Filing wrong or outdated documents may hold up your application or lead to an outright refusal.
Tip: Always make sure your documents are recent, correct, and comply with the demands set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If so, have your credentials evaluated by authorised entities, like World Education Services (WES), to confirm your education level is accepted in Canada.
Missing the Importance of Language Competence
English or French language proficiency plays a crucial role in the Express Entry program. Immigration authorities use your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score to assess both your eligibility and your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Most applicants undervalue the role of language proficiency and neglect to provide valid proof of language proficiency from an authorised institution, like IELTS or CELPIP in English or TEF in French.
Even a small error on your language test can take away precious points, and not getting the required score may disqualify you for specific programs or reduce your odds of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Tip: Invest time in preparing for your language test and shoot for a high score. If you’re not happy with your score, you can retake the test before submitting your application. Remember that higher scores can significantly improve your CRS ranking.
Not Maximising CRS Points
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) awards points based on such factors as age, education, language skill, work experience, and other adaptability factors. Failing to maximise all areas that contribute to your CRS score is a common misconception.
Certain applicants also overlook the bonus points they can receive in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which can boost their CRS score by 600 and essentially secure an ITA.
Tip: Review the CRS point distribution to ensure you’re maximising your points in each category. If at all possible, secure a job opportunity or nomination from a Canadian province, since this can significantly increase your chances.
Disregarding the Express Entry Draws
The Express Entry draws occur frequently, and the minimum CRS score needed for an invitation changes with each draw. One of the most common errors is failing to track the draws or misreading the timing. Some candidates give up too early or fail to realize they remain in the pool after their CRS score increases due to changes in their individual circumstances, such as a new language test result or a job offer.
Tip: Monitor the current draw results and be ready to respond fast if you get an ITA. If one draw does not result in an invitation, do not give up hope — update your profile and keep on refining your CRS score for the subsequent draw.
Failing to Provide Accurate or Honest Information
The Express Entry system relies on the information provided in your profile, and this information is closely scrutinised. Providing false or misleading information, whether intentional or unintentional, can result in severe consequences, including disqualification from the program or even a ban from applying for future immigration programs.
A standard error occurs when applicants overstate their work history or qualifications to improve their chances of receiving an ITA. Immigration officers are trained to spot discrepancies, and any inconsistencies in your profile can raise suspicions.
Tip: Be truthful and open in your profile. If you are unsure about some details, consult with an immigration consultant or attorney before filing your profile.
What’s next?
Although the Express Entry system provides a quick and effective means of immigration to Canada for skilled workers, making mistakes in your application can end up being expensive. By avoiding these errors and taking the time to properly prepare your profile and documentation, you significantly increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply and successfully completing your immigration process to Canada.
If you need assistance in applying for a Canada PR Visa through the Express Entry system, reach out to Keymart Visa via +91 9911338722 or info@keymartvisa.com
