Skilled Visas - Live in Canada with unrestricted working rights. Canada is looking to attract skilled migrants to sustain future economic growth. In June 2002, Canada's 25-year old Immigration Act was replaced by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). The recent changes highlight an emphasis on education, language proficiency, previous stays in Canada, and the transferable skills which can be applied to the Canadian workforce. In 2003, over 120,000 economic migrants were allowed entry into Canada. In 2004, preliminary numbers show that over 134,000 economic migrants were welcomed.
 

There are several different programs available under the Skilled Worker Program

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program
Applications under this option, are processed by the Canadian Federal government's Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada ("CIC"). To qualify under this program, applicants (or their partner) must be able to satisfy the basic visa requirements and meet the current pass mark. The basic visa criteria require that applicants meet the minimum work experience requirements; prove that they have the funds required for initial settlement; earn sufficient units of assessment in the six selection factors to meet the pass mark. The six selection factors include units awarded for education, proficiency in Canadian official languages, work experience, age, pre-arranged employment in Canada and adaptability factors to life in Canada.

2. Quebec Skilled Worker Program
Applications under this option, are initially processed by the Quebec Immigration Service (SIQ). The Québec provincial government and Canadian federal governments share jurisdiction with respect to immigration. Québec is exclusively responsible for selecting immigrants wishing to settle within its territory and who will enter the labour market. Upon approval, applicants are initially granted a Cértificat de séléction du Québec(CSQ). After issuance of a CSQ, an immigration officer will assess your application based on Canadian health and security requirements and regulations. To qualify under this program, you (or your partner) mu st satisfy the prerequisites of one of the three programs for workers established by the Québec government.

3. Provincial Nominee Skilled Worker Programs
Applications under this option, are initially processed by the Provincial Immigration Authorities of the selected province or territory according to the basic eligibility requirements. The Provincial/Territorial and Canadian federal government share jurisdiction with respect to immigration. Upon approval from the province/territory in question, applicants are initially granted a Letter of Approval. Then, the application is reviewed by CIC and assessed based on Canadian health and security requirements and regulations. To qualify under this program, you (or your partner) must satisfy the prerequisites of one of the programs for workers established by the province/territory.