If you’re considering immigration to Canada through the Express Entry system, having a valid job offer from a Canadian company can provide you with additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Arranged Employment. However, not all job offers qualify for these extra points. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that make a job offer valid for Express Entry, the significance of your NOC code, how to answer the job offer question in Express Entry, and the evidence required for Arranged Employment. Let’s dive in!
Valid Job Offers for Express Entry:
To be eligible for Arranged Employment points in Express Entry, your job offer must fall into one of the following categories:
- A work permit based on a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- A dual intent LMIA, even if the work permit has not been issued yet, as long as you apply for Permanent Residence while the LMIA is still valid.
- An employer-specific work permit that doesn’t require an LMIA, but falls within certain categories. Additionally, you must have been working for the specified employer for at least one year.
The Impact of NOC Code on Arranged Employment Points:
Your National Occupational Classification (NOC) code plays a role in determining the number of CRS points you receive for Arranged Employment. If your employment situation falls under NOC code 00 (Senior Management Positions), you’ll be awarded 200 Express Entry CRS points. For other NOC codes (0, 1, 2, or 3), you qualify for 50 CRS points.
Answering the Express Entry Question on Job Offers:
When faced with the question, “Do you have a job offer in Canada?” in the Express Entry profile, it’s advisable to answer “Yes” even if your employment situation doesn’t qualify for Arranged Employment points. Many provinces use this question to gauge interest in extending a Notification of Interest (NOI) to applicants. By indicating that you have a job offer and expressing interest in a specific province, you increase your chances of receiving an NOI.
Providing Evidence of Arranged Employment:
To demonstrate your eligibility for Arranged Employment points, you need to submit specific documents along with your Express Entry application. These include:
- A job offer letter that meets the criteria outlined by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). The letter should include your name, company contact information, expected start date, job title and duties, hours per week, salary plus benefits, and signatures from both the employer and applicant.
- Additional documents based on your employment situation, such as a copy of the LMIA and work permit for LMIA-based work permits, a copy of the valid dual intent LMIA for dual intent LMIA holders, or a work permit copy along with proof of at least 12 months of employment for LMIA-exempt employer-specific work permits.
Arranged Employment vs. Employment Records:
It’s important to distinguish between job offer letters and reference letters when applying for Arranged Employment points. A job offer letter outlines the future agreement, stating what will happen once you start the position. On the other hand, a reference letter serves as a historical record, detailing your past employment with the company. Both types of letters hold value and should be provided when applicable.
Finding Arranged Employment in Canada:
Securing a Canadian job offer while overseas may seem challenging, but it is achievable. The process typically involves finding a willing Canadian employer and determining the necessary permissions based on your job offer type and nationality. This may include obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), submitting an e-job offer through the IRCC employer portal, or acquiring permission from a province through the Provincial Nominee Program. Once the employer obtains the necessary permission, you can either apply for Permanent Residence from overseas or apply for a work permit.
Final Words:
Understanding the nuances of job offers and Arranged Employment is crucial when pursuing Canadian immigration through Express Entry. By meeting the criteria, providing accurate information, and submitting the required documents, you can maximize your chances of receiving Arranged Employment points and ultimately achieve your goal of immigrating to Canada. Good luck on your immigration journey!
