How to Apply for the Skilled Worker Program in Canada

Image credit to mmadden at flickr

When you apply for the Skilled Worker Program in Canada, your application will be processed according to the rules in place when you apply, even if the rules change after you apply.

The steps below will explain how to apply for the Skilled Worker Program in Canada:

1.  Acquire the proper application package

All the necessary forms and a guide to filling them out will be included in the package.  You can find it here.

2.  Fill in the application

• After completing the forms on your computer, you will unable to save them.  Print them out, and then add your signature wherever necessary.
• If you would prefer, you can print the blank forms and complete them by hand, as long as you use black ink.  Using a typewriter would suffice, as well.
• Consider your answers, paying attention to detail and accuracy.  If there is any information missing, the application will not be processed and returned to you.  Likewise, make sure that all the documents, signatures, proof of language proficiency, and fees are included to avoid rendering your package incomplete.
• The following forms must be filled in:
  • Application for Permanent Residence in Canada
  • Schedule 1: Background/Declaration
  • Schedule 3: Economic Classes: Federal Skilled Workers
  • Additional Family Information
  • Use of a Representative.  If you are interested in using the assistance of a representative when applying, completing this form is necessary.

You will need to go through medical, criminal and background checks.  You may not be permitted to enter Canada if you have a criminal record, or if you are considered a risk to the security of Canada.

A language test is necessary and the results must be submitted with your application.  Contact a CIC-designated agency to make arrangements for taking the test.

3.  Determine your fees

a) The fee for processing the application for you and your dependants

When you apply, you must submit who will accompany you to Canada.

b) The Right of Permanent Residence fee

If your application to immigrate as a skilled worker is approved, you would need to pay this fee.  If you are accompanied by a spouse or partner, it would cover both of you.  Before Citizenship and Immigration Canada issues your permanent resident visa, you would have to pay this fee.  If you don’t use the visa or cancel the application, the fee is refundable.

The other costs you may face are:

• a medical examination
• a police certificate, if a criminal and security check require one
• a language test

4. Go over your application

Ensure that you have:

• completed and signed your application and all forms
• included your processing fee
• included all the necessary supporting documents

If you have left out any information, your application will be returned to you, and you would have to fill in what you missed, and then send it again.

5.  Send in your application

Send your application along with the fee to the Centralized Intake Office for Federal Skilled Worker Applications in Sydney, Nova Scotia (Canada).  Do not send the application to your local visa office.

Once you’ve applied, visit here for the next steps.

There is more than simply knowing how to apply for the Skilled Worker Program in Canada – you might need help with the application itself.

Remember, the application processing fee is non-refundable, so the application needs to be right the first time.  There are lots of details you must make sure to include, and if information is incomplete or incorrect, the application will be denied and returned to you.  Enlist the help of someone who can take you through the steps and help you complete the forms properly.  An experienced immigration lawyer offers this valuable service.

Once you’ve determined that you are qualified to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker, learn about how to apply for the Skilled Worker Program in Canada.