Do you have a great professional background, but surprised that you do not qualify for Express Entry? You may be asking yourself, "why don't I have enough points?". Your age might be the reason.
Age is a major component in most Canadian immigration programs. When you turn 30, your CRS score will start declining on a yearly basis. After you reach a certain point in your life, even your high language skills or professional accomplishments may not be enough to reach the points threshold for you to qualify for Express Entry.
But, don't worry. Getting older is not a disqualifier for Canadian PR. However, you may need to look at a few different pathways and strategies to help you achieve your goal. If age is your barrier, here are a few recommendations for those who are dedicated to coming to Canada.
First, consider this…
As many will tell you, more points can be accumulated through family ties, past work or study experience, or securing a job offer in Canada. All can help boost your point score. However, these options are not always possible or realistic for everyone.
In fact, while many pursue jobs in Canada as a means to immigrate, securing a job can be challenging without first getting Canadian PR status. Without PR, employers are required to apply to the government for an LMIA, which is a costly and complicated process that can take months, or even end in rejection. Unfortunately for you, many Canadian employers will not want to take this kind of risk.
So, what are my options?
1. Study in Canada
You can study at any age in Canada. Talent Solution Canada has partnered with over 30 education partners to provide you with PR pathways. Our courses include colleges, bachelor’s, master’s, MBA, and Ph.D. programs. There are approximately 600,000 study permit holders in Canada at any time. Canada is well known for offering top-tier globally recognized education.
Benefits of study in Canada include:
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- Your spouse qualifies for an open work permit while you study (work for any employer, no LMIA required),
- As a student, you can also work up to 20 hours a week during studies,
- Study for a year and then qualify for an open work permit after graduation,
- Study for a year and qualify for PR status after graduation (for select provinces),
- After graduation, work anywhere in Canada for a year and then qualify for PR status,
- Your dependent children can accompany you to Canada and study at public schools,
- Low-cost tuition options - as low as $9,500 a year, with scholarships available,
- Come to Canada easily on a 3-month English study program (no study permit required).
2. Invest in a Canadian business
Buying an existing business, or starting a new one, is a great way to come to Canada and get PR status for yourself and your family. There are several options for business investors, including many provincial and federal programs. Franchises are available for sale which offer a turnkey approach.
Typical business investment requirements include:
- Investment commitment should be at least C$250,000,
- Salary must meet industry levels, but can be paid as dividends or retained earnings,
- Work permit possible (within 2-3 months),
- PR in less than 12 months, including family,
- Minimum 51% ownership of a business,
- Typical English level requirement – CLB 7 or IELTS 6, can be completed in Canada,
- Live and Invest anywhere in Canada,
- More benefits of business ownership in Canada
3. Self-Employment in Canada
For those who have 2 years of experience being self-employed, you may already qualify for PR in Canada. Learn more about the requirements here. Some of the more popular fields include:
- Authors and writers,
- Producers, directors, choreographers and related occupations,
- Conductors, composers, and arrangers,
- Musicians and singers,
- Dancers,
- Actors and comedians,
- Painters, sculptors, and other visual artists,
- Photographers,
- Film and video camera operators,
- Graphic arts technicians,
- Audio and video recording technicians,
- Graphic designers and illustrators,
- Interior designers and interior decorators,
- Theatre, fashion, exhibit, and other creative designers,
- Artisans and craftsperson,
- Athletes,
- Coaches,
- Sports officials and referees,
- Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport, and fitness.
4. Improve your Express Entry Score
You may be able to improve your score by investing in yourself in a number of ways. These options can be challenging; however, they may be attainable to those truly dedicated to coming to Canada.
a.Learn French as a second language
French is an official language of Canada and will net you several points.
b. Improve your education credentials
Earning a higher degree in your home country, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., or increasing your English score (IELTS) can increase your chances of being selected for Express Entry.
c. Get a job in Canada
As mentioned, although difficult, getting a job offer in Canada can drastically improve your score. While challenging, some employers in Canada are willing to jump through the hoops to hire foreign workers. There are also a number of LMIA exemptions that may be available to you through the International Mobility Program, including some professional level positions, investors, traders, intra-company transfers, and in conjunction with global trade agreements.
Find your pathway to Canada
These are just some of the many ways you can still overcome an age barrier. As you can see, reaching 35 should not be a barrier for you to come to Canada. While Express Entry may not be the best route for you, there are more than 60 programs in Canada, and PR status is attainable to those willing to take one of these pathways.
If you would like more information on any of the pathways mentioned above or any number of other matters related to Canadian immigration, please feel free to contact me.
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Denis J. Desjardins, MBA, GPHR, RCIC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant #R533327
Owner & Director
Talent Solution Canada - Immigration Services
Canada 1.506.300.3931
Toll-Free 1.833.300.3931
Vietnam +84(0).90.310.3931
[email protected]
www.talentsolutioncanada.com
