Canada STEM Immigration Visa Process and Guidelines

ByJob Study Abroad

Canada’s STEM Immigration: An In-Depth Guide

Canada is a country renowned for its excellent quality of life, diverse culture, and world-class education system. One area where Canada continues to thrive is in its capacity to attract Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professionals from around the globe. This article will cover the criteria and steps for STEM immigration to Canada.

The Importance of STEM Immigration

Canada is home to a rapidly expanding tech industry that is increasingly reliant on foreign talent. The country’s authorities have recognized this demand and have created several pathways for STEM professionals to immigrate to the country. The growth of the tech sector, coupled with a steady demand for skilled workers, has led to a favorable climate for STEM professionals looking to make Canada their new home.

Canada STEM Visa Process

Express Entry System

The Express Entry System is the preferred route for skilled immigrants, including STEM professionals, to obtain permanent residence in Canada. Within the Express Entry System, there are three primary economic immigration categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. These pathways facilitate skilled immigrants, including STEM professionals, in their journey to secure permanent residence in Canada.

Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program is designed for professionals with foreign work experience who wish to immigrate to Canada. There is no particular list of eligible occupations, meaning STEM professionals can apply if they meet other criteria. The selection factors for the FSW program include:

  1. English or French language skills
  2.  Education
  3.  Work Experience
  4.  Age
  5.  Arranged employment in Canada
  6.  Adaptability assesses how well an individual can settle in Canada.

In order to qualify, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 67 points out of the score of 100 based on the specified selection criteria.

Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Federal Skilled Trades Program caters to individuals with expertise in specific skilled trades, offering them a pathway to Canadian permanent residency. While this program might be less relevant to most STEM professionals, those in the field of Engineering may find it useful.

Canadian Experience Class

For those already working in Canada on a temporary basis, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program may be the most suitable. The primary requirement is a minimum of one year of skilled professional experience in Canada within the last three years.

Provincial Nominee Program

Each province in Canada has specific labor demands, and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) helps cater to these specific needs. Several provinces have streams specifically designed for STEM professionals. While the specifics vary by province, generally, you will need a job offer in your field from a company in the province to qualify.

Global Talent Stream

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) constitutes a component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. It’s designed to help employers bring in specialized foreign talent to Canada faster. GTS targets high-growth companies needing access to global talent to scale-up and skills-shortage occupations. Various STEM professions fall under this.

STEM Opportunities for Students

Canada offers excellent opportunities for international students in STEM fields. The country provides high-quality education and post-graduate work opportunities. Graduates can also transition to permanent resident status through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) and Canadian Experience Class.

Process and Guidelines

The Process and Guidelines for STEM Immigration to Canada

Express Entry System

  1. Create an Express Entry Profile: This is the first step and is done online. You’ll need to provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other details.
  2.  Check Eligibility: Your profile will undergo assessment to ascertain your eligibility for immigration under one of the following programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class.
  3.  Enter the Express Entry Pool: If you meet the criteria, you’ll be placed in the Express Entry pool of candidates.
  4.  Receive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Once in the pool, you’ll be given a CRS score, which is based on factors like age, education, skills, work experience, and more.
  5.  Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): The Canadian government periodically draws from the pool of candidates and those with the highest scores receive an ITA.
  6.  Apply for Permanent Residence: When you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you must submit your application to get the permanent residence within 60 days.

Provincial Nominee Program

  1. Check Eligibility: Each province has its own PNP with unique criteria, so you’ll first need to determine which province(s) you are eligible for.
  2.  Apply to the PNP: If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply to the provincial program. The application process varies by province.
  3.  Receive a Provincial Nomination: If your application is successful, you will receive a provincial nomination.
  4.  Apply for the Permanent Residence: After receiving a nomination from a provincial or territorial government, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency through the federal government. Some PNPs are aligned with the Express Entry system, which can expedite the process.

Global Talent Stream

  1. Employer Applies: In the Global Talent Stream, it’s the employer in Canada that applies to hire foreign skilled workers.
  2.  Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): The employer must get a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which shows that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job.
  3.  Apply for a Work Permit: Once the employer has a positive LMIA, the worker can apply for a work permit.

Opportunities for Students

  1. Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): If you wish to study in Canada, you must first be accepted by a DLI.
  2.  Apply for a Study Permit: Once you have received a letter of acceptance, you have the opportunity to apply for a study permit.
  3.  Work During or After Study: Depending on your program and permit, you may be able to work during your studies and/or after graduation.
  4.  Transition to Permanent Residency: By acquiring Canadian work experience, you could become eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class.

It’s important to remember that each immigration pathway has unique requirements and steps. It is recommended to visit the official Government of Canada website or consult with an immigration expert for the most accurate and detailed guidance.

Canada is a land of immense opportunities, particularly for skilled STEM professionals. The immigration process, while thorough, is designed to facilitate the entry of skilled immigrants who can contribute significantly to the Canadian economy. By understanding the requirements of programs like the Express Entry system, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and the Global Talent Stream, STEM professionals can identify the most suitable path for their specific circumstances.

The process of immigrating to Canada as a STEM professional may seem complex, but with careful preparation and understanding, it can be navigated successfully. Ultimately, the opportunities that Canada offers STEM professionals make the process worthwhile.

Disclaimers

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as professional legal advice. It is important to seek guidance from a qualified legal professional for any legal concerns or personalized advice. The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of writing, but immigration laws and procedures may change over time. For the most current and personalized advice, we recommend consulting the official Government of Canada website or seeking guidance from a qualified legal professional.