Can I Still Qualify As A Federal Skilled Worker If I Do Not Have Work Experience In The Qualifying Occupations?

As of January 1, 2015 there is no longer a list of qualifying occupations. There used to be a list of fifty qualifying occupations of which you must work full time continuously full time for one year, but with the new start of Express Entry that is no longer the case.

The Federal Skilled Worker program does still exist but now you must apply under the Express Entry. You will require to have worked continuously for a total of 1,560 hours (30 hours per week) full time or part time to the same total of 1,560 hours (either 2 jobs at 30 hours a week, or 15 hours a week over 2 years (24 months)) The job would have to be in the same skill level, and be at the skill level of 0, A, or B according to the National Occupational Classification.

There are six main factors that Citizenship and Immigration Canada view in order to be chosen under the Federal Skilled worker program.

• Age – young enough to have a career before retiring
• Adaptability – how well you will adapt and the chances of you staying here
• Work experience – past work experience and for how long, and what level
• Education – high school, diploma, degree, PhD.
• A possible valid job opportunity
• Language – shown by a language test

With the new Express Entry it is now completely online. You create an Express Entry profile adding in all your information. Then you will be given points according to the qualifications and skills you have provided. Your profile will then be entered into the Express Entry pool where you will be ranked against others within the pool. The higher the points the more likely you will be chosen and offered an Invitation to Apply. After you receive an offer you then have sixty days to apply for Permanent Residence. If you miss the sixty days you will be placed back into the Express Entry pool where your profile will remain for up to twelve months.

We will be happy to help you with any question or concerns you make have about applying to come to Canada. Here at Akrami and Associates we have years of experience and expertise to assist you in coming to Canada.