Express Entry Document Checklist for Canada PR

Documentation is critical to your visa process through the Express Entry System. The Express Entry application process has multiple stages and can vary slightly depending on your situation. For example, the documentation process can be slightly different for the Federal Skilled Worker Stream, Federal Skilled Trade or the Canadian Experience Class. Below is an exhaustive list of documents commonly required for Express Entry.

Personal Documents for Profile Update

Uploading documents is not mandatory when creating your Express Entry profile. However, it is essential to familiarize yourself with all the documents that will be required during the process. Gathering and organizing all the necessary documents beforehand is advisable to avoid any last-minute rush or confusion.

1. Passport or Travel Document

While you don’t need to upload documents to submit your profile, having your passport or travel document information handy is essential.

2. Language Proficiency Test Results

You’ll need the results if you’ve taken language proficiency tests (such as IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core for English, or TEF/TEC for French).

3. Proof of Canadian Education or ECA

If you studied in Canada, provide proof of your education. If you completed your education outside Canada, you’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report for immigration purposes.

4. Provincial Nomination Certificate (if you have one)

Include the certificate with your application if you have received a provincial nomination from a specific Canadian province or territory.

5. Written Job Offer from a Canadian Employer (if applicable)

The job offer should specify the job title, duties, salary, bonuses, benefits (such as health insurance), and other compensation. It should also provide details about the company or organization offering the job.

6. Work Experience Documents for Express Entry

Reference or Experience Letter from the Employer: Obtain an official document printed on company letterhead. Ensure you include your name, company contact information, job title, duties, dates worked, work hours per week, annual salary, and benefits. Include your immediate supervisor or personnel officer’s name, title, and signature.

Common Supplementary Documents:

• Pay Slips/Salary Statements: Original pay stubs or salary statements.
• Original Hire Letter/Contract of Employment: If available.
• Relieving Letter/Acknowledgment of Resignation Letter: If you no longer work with the company.
• Annual Performance Appraisals: Any performance evaluations received.
• Promotion and Salary Increase Letters: If applicable.

7. Proof of Funds Documents

You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and your family during the settlement process. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) applicants must provide proof of funds. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants do not need to show proof of settlement funds.

8. Certificate of Qualification (if you have one)

If you possess a Certificate of Qualification in a specific trade issued by a Canadian province or territory, it can significantly enhance your Express Entry profile. This certificate validates your expertise and qualifications in a particular skilled trade.

Documents Required for Canada PR Application

Completing an online Express Entry profile or participating in the pool does not automatically ensure receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Your profile is assessed and assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score when entering the Express Entry pool among other candidates.

Candidates with higher CRS scores are likelier to be chosen for an ITA in the subsequent Express Entry draw. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will ask you to complete a permanent residence application.

Express Entry Documents After ITA: After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through the Express Entry system, there are essential documents you’ll need to prepare for your application for permanent residence in Canada.

1. Police Clearance Certificates

• Obtain police clearance certificates from all countries where you have resided for six months or more since the age of 18.
• These certificates verify that you have no criminal record or pending criminal charges.
• You’ll need separate certificates for each country you’ve resided in during the specified period.

2. Proof of Funds

• Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents in Canada.
• The required amount varies based on the size of your family (as mentioned in your previous message).
• Acceptable proof includes bank statements, investment statements, and other financial documents.
• Ensure the funds are readily accessible and legally available for your settlement in Canada.

3. Birth Certificate of Dependent Child/Children

• If you’re declaring dependent children in your application, provide their birth certificates.
• These documents prove their relationship to you and establish their eligibility for immigration.

4. Adoption Papers (if applicable)

• If your child is adopted, submit the relevant adoption papers.
• These documents verify the legal adoption and the child’s status as your dependent.

5. Common-Law Union Form

• If you’re in a common-law relationship (living together as a couple without being legally married), complete this form.
• It confirms your relationship status and provides details about your partner.

6. Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

• If you’re legally married, provide your marriage certificate.
• This document establishes your marital status and the legitimacy of your marriage.

7. Divorce Certificate and Legal Separation Agreement (if applicable)

• If you’re divorced, include the divorce certificate.
• Additionally, provide any legal separation agreements related to property, custody, or financial matters.

8. Representative Form

• If you’ve hired an authorized representative (such as an immigration consultant or lawyer), submit the Use of a Representative Form.
• This form authorizes your representative to act on your behalf during the application process.

Additional Documents

During the verification process, IRCC might need some additional documents. These documents are not critical per se; they are only used to verify whether you meet the requirements of the Express Entry managed program you applied for.

1. Proof of Relationship to a Relative in Canada

• You may be asked to provide evidence of your relationship if you have any relatives in Canada (such as a parent, sibling, or grandparent).
• This could include birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other relevant documents.

2. Digital Photograph for Identity Confirmation

• Submit a recent digital photograph that confirms your identity.
• Ensure the photo meets the specified requirements (size, background, and clarity).

3. Alternative Name for Validating Aliases

• If you have used different names (aliases) in the past, provide documentation to validate these alternative names.
• This could include legal name change certificates or other official records.

4. Authority to Release Personal Information Form

• If you want to authorize a specific person (such as your representative or family member) to access your application information, complete the Authority to Release Personal Information form.
• This form allows the designated individual to communicate with IRCC on your behalf.

5. Any Additional Relevant Paperwork

• If you believe other documents are pertinent to your application, include them.
• These could be letters of explanation, additional reference letters, or other supporting materials.

If you’re seeking guidance on Canada Express Entry, connect with our team of experts for their professional advice.