The Federal Skilled Worker Class Immigrants have always helped to make Canada’s economy strong and prosperous. To continue this tradition, Canada encourages skilled worker applications for permanent residence from people with skills, education and work experience that will contribute to the Canadian economy. Will You Qualify? Definition Skilled workers are people who may become permanent residents based on their ability to become economically established in Canada. Minimum requirement For your application to be considered, you must meet the minimum requirement of at least one year of full-time (or full-time equivalent), paid work experience. This experience must: have occurred in the past 10 years be in Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B of the National Occupation Classification (NOC). The National Occupation Classification (NOC). The NOC is a classification system of occupations in Canada. It describes the duties, skills, aptitudes and work settings typical of jobs in the Canadian labour market. Determining your NOC category Follow these steps to determine if your work experience is in an occupation that meets the minimum requirement to apply as a skilled worker: STEP 1. Go to IMMIGRATION Canada Web site. STEP 2. Scroll down the page and click on the heading, “Will You Qualify as a Skilled Worker?”, then click on “Minimum Work Experience Requirement”. STEP 3. Follow the instructions to see if your work experience qualifies you to immigrate under the Skilled Worker class. STEP 4. If you have experience in more than one occupation during the past 10 years, repeat the search to determine if you meet the minimum requirement to apply as a skilled worker. Work experience in several occupations may also be used, if it adds up to one full year. STEP 5. Check the list of restricted occupations. If your work experience is in a restricted occupation, then it cannot be used to earn points to qualify for the skilled worker class. (At the time of printing there were no restricted occupations in Canada; however, you should check our Web site to see the current list.) You are not eligible to apply as a skilled worker if: none of your work experience is listed in Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B of the NOC; your experience did not occur within 10 years of the date of application; your eligible work experience does not add up to one full year; or your only work experience is in a restricted occupation. Selection system. If your work experience meets the minimum requirements to apply as a skilled worker, your application will be assessed against two criteria: required funds and selection factors. Funds Required to Settle in Canada The government of Canada provides no financial support to new skilled worker immigrants. You must prove that you have enough money unencumbered by debts or obligations to support yourself and your family members after you arrive in Canada. *Exception: If you have arranged employment as defined in Factor 5, you do not have to meet these financial requirements. The minimum required funds may change at any time. We strongly recommend that you research the cost of living in the region of Canada where you intend to live. Bring with you as much money as possible to make your establishment in Canada easier. |