Canada has opened its doors to millions of skilled immigrants through express entry Canada. Aspiring candidates need to submit detailed online applications. What documents do they need, and at what point?
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Document Checklist for Express Entry Canada
A Canadian immigration applicant must gather some documents soon after deciding to apply. One may need information from some of the documents during the application process. After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), the candidate has 60 days to submit all the documents.
Some of the documents are mandatory, but others will depend on an individual’s unique circumstances. Here is a list of nine types of documents needed:
1. Identification Documents
The applicant must provide their current and valid passports and those of family members. The visa office uses these documents to verify identity. One must also present documents to support the marital status indicated on the profile.
These documents may include one of the following:
- Common-law union form
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce certificate
- Formal separation agreement
- Death certificate (widowed)
When reporting children as dependents, the applicant must provide the following:
- Birth certificates for biological children
- Adoption certificate for adopted children
2. Language Test Results
Proficiency in French or English is a requirement for express entry to Canada. Applicants must submit their test results as proof of their language capabilities.
3. Medical Examination Reports
Candidates should submit their medical reports and those of their family members after receiving an invitation. A medical exam close to the submission date can ensure they remain valid after getting to Canada.
4. Police Clearance Certificates
The certifications must be obtained from every nation any adult has resided in for at least six months. All adult members of the family must have a police clearance certificate.
5. Education Certificates
Candidates must produce academic certificates as proof of completion of the study programs they listed. Foreign certificates may need to go through Educational Credential Assessment for evaluation by the Canadian government.
The candidate must provide certified translations of credentials not in English or French.
6. Work Experience Documents
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) wants to ensure individuals worked for the listed employers and the stated period. Proof of work experience may include the following:
- Contracts
- Letters
- Pay stubs
Individuals can prove Canadian work experience by supplying tax records.
8. Proof of Funds
Applicants must show they have the minimum bank account balance to support themselves and their families. IRCC chooses the checklist amount each year.
9. PNP Certificate (Provincial Nominee Program)
Candidates with provincial nominations should submit their certificates. The certificate adds an extra 600 points to their Express Entry profile.
10. Proof of Canadian Job Offer
Individuals with a Canadian job offer get higher Comprehensive Ranking System scores. They must demonstrate that the employment offer is legitimate using the following:
- Letter from employer with company details and job description.
- LMIA number if the job is based on the LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
Canadian Immigration Help
Get expert help and advice for express entry Canada. Working with a certified Canada immigration consultant will assist you in keeping track of the required documentation.
