If you are interested in applying for citizenship in Canada, there are a few things you need to know. The process has changed recently, and it is important to be prepared.
This article will tell you about the changes that have been made to the citizenship process, how to prepare your documents, and what you need to do to stay ahead of the game.
Whether you are just starting to explore your options or are ready to apply, this article has the information you need.
What to keep in mind as you apply
Transitioning to a fully digital platform
The first big change for those applying for citizenship in 2022 is that the Canadian government is in the process of transitioning to a fully digital platform for citizenship and immigration applications.
Under the new system, applicants will no longer be required to submit paper forms or supporting documents. Instead, they will simply create an online account and complete their application using the provided online form. The transition to a digital platform is expected to streamline the application process and reduce processing times.
In addition, it will provide applicants with instant confirmation of receipt and allow them to track the status of their application online. The switch to a digital platform is just one of several changes that the Canadian government has made in recent years to improve the efficiency of its citizenship and immigration programs.
Lifted COVID restrictions
Since the start of the pandemic, Canada has put various restrictions in place for immigrants entering the country. However, as vaccine rates have increased and case numbers have declined, the Canadian government has announced that these restrictions will be lifted.
Immigrants will no longer be required to be vaccinated to enter Canada, and there will no longer be any testing or quarantine requirements. In addition, the Canadian government paused many of its immigration programs due to the Covid-19 pandemic but is now planning to resume some programs in September 2022.
For instance, the government will be unveiling a new Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) Immigration Program that will allow individuals working in essential occupations, and international graduates working in skilled occupations, to apply for permanent residence.
Canada has been facing a skills shortage and this program will help address that issue by attracting highly-skilled workers to come to Canada and contribute to the economy.
The TR to PR program will also help alleviate the backlog of applicants who have been waiting for their applications to be processed. Individuals who are interested in applying for the program should start gathering the required documents and start preparing their applications as soon as possible.
The program is open to all immigrants, regardless of their country of origin. For many, this will be a lifeline that will allow them to finally start living and working in Canada permanently.
The lifting of COVID-19 restrictions is a welcome first step, but it remains to be seen how successful the new TR to PR program will be in attracting and retaining newcomers.
NOC is shifting to the TEER system
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) system is used by the Government of Canada to classify and describe all occupations in the Canadian economy. The NOC is used for a variety of purposes, including statistical analysis, labor market research, and immigration.
The NOC is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the Canadian economy, and the 2021 version will come into effect on November 16, 2022.
The new NOC system will change the way Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) evaluates occupations, and as a result, 16 new occupations will become eligible for Express Entry and 3 will become ineligible.
The TEER system breaks down all occupations into codes based on Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities. For each occupation, ESDC will assign a code based on the minimum requirements needed to perform the job.
These codes will be used to assess Express Entry candidates against the criteria for certain economic immigration programs. The following table shows how the former NOC skill levels will transfer to the new system:
NOC 2016 NOC 2021
- Skill Type O TEER 0
- Skill Level A TEER 1, TEER 2
- Skill Level B TEER 3
- Skill Level C TEER 4
The impact of this change on Express Entry eligibility remains to be seen, but it is expected that occupations in TEERs 0, 1, 2, and 3 will be eligible to submit express entry profiles under the new system.
However, the new NOC system will provide greater clarity and transparency in the assessment of Express Entry candidates, and help ensure that only those with skills and experience required for specific occupations are able to immigrate to Canada.
How to stay ahead of the curve
Check your eligibility
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, you must first meet a few basic requirements.
- You must be at least 18 years of age and a permanent resident of Canada.
- You must also have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years, and be familiar with English or French.
- In addition, you must have a clean record and be willing to take a citizenship test.
Prepare documents for online accessibility
As the Canadian government transitions to a fully digital platform for citizenship and permanent residency applications, it is important to make sure that your documents are accessible online.
This means scanning and uploading any paper documents that you have, as well as making sure that any electronic files are in a format that can be read by the online system.
You also need to make sure that they are securely stored. This means keeping them on a secure private computer or mobile device and using a strong password to protect access. If you are using a public computer, make sure to log out and delete any files you have downloaded before you leave.
The Canadian government has made it clear that the shift to a digital platform is intended to improve the efficiency of its citizenship and immigration programs.
By making sure that your documents are accessible and secure, you can ensure that you can take advantage of the new system.
Keep records current and compliant
Applying for Canadian citizenship can be a lengthy and complicated process, but it is also important to make sure that all of your records are up to date and compliant before you begin.
Depending on your situation, you may need to provide proof of residency, employment, immunization, or family ties in Canada. You will also need to have a clean criminal record and be able to demonstrate your knowledge of Canadian history and government. In addition, you will need to provide photos and other documents as required.
Applicants who do not have current records may be asked to provide additional documentation or may be denied citizenship. Therefore, it is important to keep these records up to date and compliant to avoid any delays or problems with the application process.
If you meet all of these requirements, you can begin the citizenship application process online. The first step is to create an account on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
Once you have completed the online application, you will need to submit any supporting documentation. This may include your birth certificate, passport, proof of residency, and criminal background check. Once your application is complete, it will be reviewed by a citizenship officer.
If everything is in order, you will be invited to take the citizenship test. Once you have passed the test, you will be scheduled for a ceremony where you will take the oath of citizenship and receive your Canadian passport. Following these steps will help ensure that your application for Canadian citizenship is successful.
Express Entry can keep you up to date!
Applying for citizenship in Canada can be a complicated process. However, by following the right steps and being aware of what is required, you can make the application process as smooth as possible.
Express Entry PR provides information and assistance with the application process for both permanent residency (PR) and citizenship.
We also keep our clients up to date on changes to Canadian immigration law and policy. We are committed to providing the highest level of service and expertise, and we take pride in our reputation for excellence. So, be sure to visit our website to learn more about how we can help you make your move to Canada.