Canada is always known to welcome immigrants from across the globe. Inclusivity is said to be the way of life in the country. A global education system, highly rated healthcare, and the climate are the main reasons people move to Canada.
One can always find the demand for a Canadian immigration visa. However, it is worth noting that the primary immigration is only for skilled occupations. In this article, we have explained the process of hiring an immigrant and helping them become permanent residents.
National Occupation Classification:
National Occupational Classification or NOC is a list of all the occupations in Canada. It has a classification of over 30,000 occupational titles and 500 Unit Groups that are organized based on four skill levels and ten skill types. In addition, before hiring an international candidate, you must know the hiring NOC code and skill level.
NOC skill levels get classified as 0, A to D. The occupations undergo classification as per education qualification, experience required, training for the job, and specialization. Based on the NOC Classification, it is easy for you to list the immigration options available for your employee and the Canada immigration visa.
Express Entry:
Express entry to Canada covers only three skill levels, as listed below:
- 0 – this is for management jobs
- A – this skill level requires a degree from a recognized university
- B – This skill level requires a college degree and is for technical jobs, including skilled trades
NOC C or D jobs cannot avail of the Express entry option
It is crucial to note that the NOC Classification may undergo a few changes change at the end of 2022. Please get in touch with the Immigration lawyer London for the current list.
Labour Market Impact Assessment:
Companies can hire an immigrant when no suitable Canadian is available for that position. You as an employer must demonstrate the same to the Government. A Labor Market Impact Assessment or LMIA is a requisite from ESDC. The steps involve:
● You will have to advertise the job opening on the Job Bank and two other places.
● After placing the advertisement, you can apply for LMIA
● Post verification, ESDC may agree with you hiring a foreign national.
LMIA Exceptions:
An LMIA is not necessary for the following circumstances:
● LMIA was obtained during the original hire process, so if you want to extend his contract period for one more year to help them avail of permanent residency.
● Your employees’ work permit is exempted from LMIA under some International Agreements or International Mobility Program. They should have already worked with you for at least a year to be eligible for the same.
Express Entry Points:
Your candidate is required to check if they are eligible for any one of the following immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
Once they are eligible, they need to create the express entry profile. Candidates will receive scores based on the candidate’s application and other factors. Your LMIA can help them obtain additional positive points, though it is not a necessary criterion. The more the score, the more chances of approval through express entry to Canada. Your employee will be asked to apply for permanent residency.
Anyone can apply for the express entry profile. A valid job offer is not needed. But having one will add more credibility and give extra points. A valid job offer is the one with full-time and 30-hour week. Fifty points are awarded for the A and B categories, and if the NOC starts with a 00, they will get 200 points. Though, this situation is rare.
Details of an Employee:
Once your employee has created their express entry profile, you must provide them with the following details. The same must be updated in the profile by them:
- Employer Name
- Employer Address
- Start Date
- LMIA Number
- NOC CODE
The time that is taken by the Authorities to grant express entry varies. In general, the standard is six months or less from the date of application. However, it may even take up to 9 months to get the permanent residency status in some instances.
Bridging Open Work Permit:
In worst cases, if the temporary status of the employee is set to expire and they are in the midst of the permanent residency application process, they can obtain the Bridge Open Work Permit and continue to stay in Canada while they work.
Conclusion:
Now that the Covid pandemic is slowing down, demand for jobs has increased throughout Canada. In addition, a stable economy and ample growth opportunities have attracted many to opt for permanent residency here. As an employer, you can help your employee by hiring them permanently by following the proper documentation. It will help them to avail a Canada Immigration visa faster and be eligible for permanent residency.
