WHATSAPP
Canada Express Entry is a faster and simpler way for individuals and families from across the world to migrate to Canada. The Express Entry system that came into existence in 2015 manages and processes applications received through Canada’s federal economic immigration programs. The candidates are selected for Canada immigration through Express Entry based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. It is a score out of 1200 and the highest scoring candidates are invited to apply for Canada PR in the Express Entry draws that are conducted regularly.
When we observe the common pattern of Express Entry draws that were held in 2018, we can see that the minimum CRS score requirement to be invited to apply for permanent residence swung between 440 and 445 points. Immigration experts are of the opinion that the minimum CRS requirement is less likely to come down from this range in the near future. So, the best option for those with low CRS score is to find an alternative way to obtain Canada PR.
Applying for provincial nomination through the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) Stream is a great option for them. This Express Entry-linked stream of Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has recently been revised to make it accessible for more eligible immigrants. Earlier, candidates were required to have a minimum CRS score of 400 to be considered under the stream. This has been waived in the recent rules changes and the minimum CRS scores are now decided by the director.
Ontario has already conducted three draws with CRS score requirements below 400. Two out of these targeted candidates with a job offer from an Ontario employer and the remaining one invited candidates with French speaking abilities (CLB 7 or higher). The minimum CRS score requirement in the draw held on August 9 was 350. Candidates with CRS scores below 400 are likely to be invited in the future draws of the stream as well.
But one important thing we have to note here is that all the candidates with CRS score below 400 were selected based on either their job offer or their French-speaking skills. It means a job offer or your French speaking abilities might help you to obtain a provincial nomination from Ontario. However, neither a job offer nor French-speaking skills is a must to apply through the Human Capital Priorities Stream.
The Express Entry candidate who receives a provincial nomination from Ontario will get 600 additional CRS points as a result of which, they will be invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada in the subsequent Express Entry draws.
The Human Capital Priorities Stream helps OINP select candidates with skills and human capital factors listed in the eligibility criteria. OINP has so far issued 3,534 Notifications of Interest (NOI) through HCP Stream in 2018.
Contact us for a free assessment to know if you are eligible to apply for Canada immigration through provincial nominee programs
