Introduction
The Canadian immigration system welcomes skilled professionals worldwide to apply for permanent residency (PR). In particular, demand for Chartered Accountants (CAs) remains high due to the continuous growth of the financial sector in the country. Applying for PR as a Chartered Accountant entails understanding the Express Entry system and the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This article will guide you on how to navigate this process successfully.
The Express Entry System
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Understanding the Express Entry system:
The Express Entry system is the primary avenue through which potential immigrants with skills and experience in a comprehensive range of occupations, including Chartered Accountants, apply for PR in Canada. It manages three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). As a Chartered Accountant, you will likely apply through the FSWP.
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Eligibility for the FSWP:
To qualify under the FSWP, you must meet the eligibility requirements. These include at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the last ten years, and this experience must be in a National Occupational Classification (NOC) level 0, A or B job. The NOC code for Chartered Accountants is NOC 1111 and falls under Skill Level A.
You will also need to meet the required language proficiency level in either English or French, have a valid job offer in Canada (although not mandatory), and demonstrate enough financial stability to support yourself and your family upon your arrival in Canada.
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Creating an Express Entry Profile:
To apply, you will need to create an Express Entry profile online. The profile will include your skills, education, language ability, work experience, and other details. You must also have your foreign credentials assessed and complete an approved language test (IELTS for English or TEF for French) to demonstrate your proficiency.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
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Understanding the CRS:
The CRS is a point-based system that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses to assess and score your profile and rank it in the Express Entry pool. Points are given for factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
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Improving your CRS Score:
If your initial CRS score isn’t high enough for you to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence, there are several ways to improve it. This includes improving your language scores, obtaining a higher education, gaining more relevant work experience, or securing a valid job offer or a provincial nomination.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
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Considering the PNP:
If you’re specifically interested in a particular province, you could consider applying through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Certain provinces, such as Ontario, have specific streams for accounting professionals. If nominated, you receive an additional 600 points to add to your CRS score.
After Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
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Applying for Permanent Residence:
Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. You’ll need to provide various documents such as police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds, etc.
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Waiting for the Decision:
Once you submit your application, the average processing time for most applications is about six months. If approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if you’re from a country that requires a visa to enter Canada).
Conclusion
Applying for PR in Canada as a Chartered Accountant might seem like a daunting process due to the many steps involved. However, understanding the procedures and requirements can ease the process. Carefully compiling the necessary documents, obtaining the required work experience, language proficiency and education, and improving your CRS score will significantly increase your chances of success.
Although this process can take time, the benefits of acquiring PR status in Canada are numerous, including access to the same rights and benefits as Canadian citizens, like universal healthcare, high quality education, and the opportunity to live, work, and study anywhere in the country. By following the steps outlined in this guide, Chartered Accountants seeking new opportunities can navigate their way towards achieving PR status in Canada.
Remember that while this guide provides a comprehensive overview, each individual’s journey may vary depending on personal circumstances. It is always recommended to keep updated with the latest information from official Canadian immigration resources and consider consulting with a certified immigration consultant for personal advice. Canada eagerly awaits your skills and contributions to its diverse and thriving economy.