Express Entry Visa in Canada
Canada’s version of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), recently announced a new category-based selection process called Express Entry. The Minister of IRCC’s announcement heralded the start of 500 healthcare worker invitations for application sent to qualifying candidates. Next, 1,500 more received invitations to apply the first week in July.
These invitations help Canada strive to further its healthcare system by selecting some of the top talents in the world to enter the country via a streamlined visa process. Instead of jumping through cumbersome hoops, paying exorbitant fees, and facing rejection at every step, these potential applicants know they’ve already been vetted and mostly approved by Canada’s system.
But the country doesn’t stop there. After the round of healthcare invitations were submitted, IRCC extended the invitation to all candidates with STEM expertise. Those with backgrounds in the in-demand fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are welcome in Canada, and the country submitted invitations in early July. Once an invitation is accepted, the applicant can submit a request for permanent residence in the country.
Understanding Express Entry
What exactly does this mean for Canada’s potential immigrants? The IRCC offers visas to non-immigrants, immigrant hopefuls, refugees, and those seeking citizenship through various categories. But Express Entry bumps certain individuals to the front of the line.
Through Canada’s flagship program, Express Entry, candidates with specific skills or abilities are vetted and chosen to apply to move to the country and work there permanently. This category-based selection process is part of an immigration program goal to increase the country’s overall economic strength. With talented individuals turned away from other countries frequently due to challenging immigration policies, Canada wants to offer an opportunity that makes it simple and streamlined for these skilled workers.
Currently, the government’s focus includes candidates with the following skills:
● Proficient in French
● Experience in healthcare work
● Experience in STEM fields
● Carpenters, plumbers, contractors, and other trades
● Individuals in agriculture or agri-food fields.
With Express Entry submitting invitations, it’s easier for Canada to put the weight of its visas where the country needs them most and then adjust the categories in the future as necessary.
What This Means for H-1B Visa Applicants
This plan to bring H-1B visa holders to the country has already been successful. Once the program opened, it reached the 10,000 visa limit in under 48 hours.
That means that 10,000 H-1B visas will be freed up for those determined to enter the US. What USCIS will do with them isn’t clear yet, but the expectation is that they will be offered to the next applicants on the list in the appropriate categories. Still, regardless of when the visas are available, the fact is that applicants for an H-1B visa now have 10,000 fewer competitors.
What’s Next?
When your professional goal is to work in the United States, Visa2US can help you reach that target. Our skilled legal attorneys know how the system works and how to maximize your chances at a successful H-1B visa. Contact us today to discuss your situation and determine your next steps!
