Some of the most common pathways for skilled migrants seeking to live and work permanently in Canada are those migration programs designed for professional and skilled workers. The following programs are currently available, applications for which are managed using the Express Entry system:
Express Entry
Express Entry is a system maintained by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the purpose of managing and assessing applications for permanent residence from certain categories of skilled workers.
In addition to the programs mentioned above, some regional schemes under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) also use the Express Entry system.
Skilled Worker Programs
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a skilled worker immigration program available to individuals who have already gained work experience in Canada while holding temporary resident status, and who want to apply for permanent residence. If you do not have any previous Canadian work experience, you are not eligible to apply for this visa program.
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is targeted at skilled workers who want to become permanent residents of Canada based on their being qualified in a skilled trade.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is targeted at skilled workers with work experience gained within the last ten years who want to become permanent residents of Canada.
Provincial Nominee Programs for Professional and Skilled Workers
Each Canadian province and territory is responsible for its own regional skilled worker programs, and for their eligibility criteria. For more information, please see our PNP guidance.
Work Permits
If you already have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be able to apply for an Employer-specific Work Permit. Some individuals may be eligible instead of an Open Work Permit, which is ideal for those without a current job offer or who want extra flexibility and the option to work in varying fields and/or locations.