How to Clear the Gray Area in the Federal Skilled Worker Program

By Michael Niren March 19, 2015 2 min. read
Federal Skilled Worker Program

Federal Skilled Worker Program

Are you interested in applying to the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)? As of January 1st, the main method of applying for FSWP has changed, and a new system known as Express Entry has been introduced – however, according to critics, the new system may need to be “fine-tuned”.

In total, 779 candidates – around 26 per cent of the estimated 3,000 who applied – were selected in the first ever round of Ottawa’s overhauled and revamped system.

The decisive factor in all this? Those selected had managed to secure a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) by a prospective employer, which automatically added an extra 600 points on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

Why Is an LMIA so Important?

An LMIA essentially proves that a candidate possesses skills that are highly sought after and in high demand. Looking at the bar that was set on the first draw, successful candidates had to have scored a minimum of 886 points out of a possible 1,200. The rest of the points were made up from personal factors such as qualifications, language skills, age, and work experience (up to a possible 600 points).

Here’s what Toronto immigration lawyer Sergio Karas had to say: “It’s the first draw under the new Express Entry program and the numbers were quite low. The pass mark was 35 per cent lower than the max. The kick of it is to get a positive LMIA.”

He continued: “But LMIAs are incredibly difficult to get. It’s such a laborious, time-intensive and complicated process for employers. Service Canada now looks for things to refuse an application. Why would employers spend the time and money on these applications?”

Clear the Gray Area

It’s been suggested that the applicant pool could be widened by making some people exempt from having to obtain LMIAs, since some countries already have trade agreements with Canada and workers from those counties don’t actually require such documents.

Until then, it’s obvious that without securing a job offer or Provincial Nomination (the latter of which is LMIA-exempt), you may find yourself without the necessary extra points to make the cut and be drawn from the pool as a successful candidate.

Although we highly recommend taking the time to increase your skill points by working on aspects such as language ability or increasing your qualifications, it’s also paramount that you make efforts to find a prospective employer. The Canadian job bank can match potential migrants with Canadian employers who need vacancies filled.

Federal Skilled Worker Program eligibility

If you think you might qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you can determine your eligibility online via the CIC’s guidelines. However, FSWP is more open than previous immigration programs, with decidedly less limits than the old FSWP.

Why Legal Help for the Skilled Worker Program is Vital

The documentation and processes involved in successfully obtaining an  Immigration visa are complex and usually require legal expertise.  We have helped thousands of individuals to successfully get Canadian permanent residence and we can help you too!

If you’re interested in applying for the federal skilled worker program, simply fill our free immigration assessment form and we will get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your eligibility and options.

Ljiljana Pavkov Avatar

Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”

kevin geoffrey Avatar

kevin geoffrey

Visa place helped me with my daughter’s sponsorship 3 years ago. Last week I contacted them for some clarification on a different matter. It was about an issue which technically was a problem of CIC’s software glitch and had nothing to do with Visa Place.
Yet Reena Sandu was assigned for my case. she helped me with enthusiasm and showed no hesitation despite me being an ex-client from 3 years ago.
I was very happy that even after 3 years of finishing business, Visa Place were respectful of their clients. Special thanks again to Reena for her enthusiasm and support.

Nessie Leigh Ilarde Avatar

Nessie Leigh Ilarde

Thank you very much for helping me get my new visa! I appreciate Ms. Felicita and her colleagues for guiding us through the process making sure that everything is precise. Highly recommend your firm. Thanks again 🙂

parker ellis Avatar

parker ellis

Mansi Sanghvi has been nothing for of remarkable for me. I have been dealing with a visa, immigration issues , and any time I have to call her, she has been there to answer any questions. Has answers to every question and is there to HELP YOU. Truly could not recommend her more.