Federal Skilled Worker immigration to Canada has re-opened as of May 4, 2013.

It is strongly recommended that you prepare your application as soon as possible.  This will greatly increase your chances of getting into the program before the maximum quotas of 300 per occupation are reached.

We have an understanding of the new proposed requirements based on the information provided to us as professional immigration consultants by Canadian immigration authorities.  Some of these new changes include:

1. A new minimum language threshold of level 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark assessment system for the principal applicant;
2. Additional points assigned for spouse’s language scores;
3. Higher points for younger applicants;
4. The requirement of a more complex and in-depth evaluation of an applicant’s background; Education credentials must be evaluated by third party organizations approved by the Canadian government. (A list of these 3rd parties will be made available early in 2013.)
5. A possibility that a wide list of occupations with maximum quotas will be issued;
6. A higher burden on the applicant to quickly prepare a quality application before maximum quotas are reached;
7. Canadian government commitment to processing new applications in a few months (rather than a few years as was the case earlier.)

What should you do next?
Prepare your application and all supporting documents such that they are ready as soon as possible.  Note that it takes most applicants 2-3 months to prepare such applications.

Preparation is complex and require in depth knowledge of the Canadian immigration act, regulations, federal court decisions on federal skilled cases, and policy. It is not a mere filling up of forms.  Onus is on the applicant to file a perfected application as per the act. Otherwise, the application will be returned by immigration authorities which can be costly because of the quota system you may lose the opportunity to file the application in time.  Also, it is important to have a clear description of your occupation which meets the legal requirements under the law, mere description of duties may not suffice.  Accordingly, it is advisable to use the services of a qualified professional with in depth knowledge and experience with a strong reputation.