The Express Entry system is one of Canada’s most popular immigration pathways, offering skilled workers a chance to secure permanent residency efficiently. However, navigating the immigration application process can be a bit tricky, and even small mistakes can jeopardize your chances of success. From providing incorrect documentation to misunderstanding eligibility requirements, these errors can lead to delays, rejections, or missed opportunities. This blog discusses common Express Entry mistakes and how you can fix them.

So, without further ado, let us begin!

Common Express Entry Mistakes and Tips To Fix Them

Below are the common Express Entry mistakes that you must avoid. Even if you have made the following mistakes, adhere to the solution provided. 

1. Having Less Than A Year Of Continuous Full-Time Experience In Your Primary NOC Code

One of the most common Express Entry mistakes is having less than a year of continuous full-time experience in your primary NOC code when you submit your Express Entry profile or using a code that does not fall under TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 will be an automatic rejection. 

Solution: Just indicate a primary NOC code that you can prove you have at least a year of skilled, full-time experience in the last ten years. You must also be aware that whatever you indicate as your NOC code will not affect your employment prospects in Canada. Thus, once you are a permanent resident in Canada, you are free to work in any position or industry you wish. 

2. Not Proving Intention To Live Outside Of Quebec

If you are presently residing or working in Quebec and intend to stay in Quebec after the completion of your immigration application, you must ideally apply for a Quebec immigration program. 

That said, just because you are residing in Quebec doesn’t mean you cannot apply through the Express Entry system. The results of both federal and Quebec immigration applications are almost the same: Canadian permanent residence. As a permanent resident, your right to live and work everywhere in Canada is protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. 

Solution: Provide the authorities/ visa officer with sufficient proof that although you might be working/ living in Quebec now, upon approval of your application, you will move outside Quebec. This proof/ evidence can come in many forms, but it is advisable to include a sworn declaration of your intent to live outside Quebec in your application. 

3. Employment Reference Letters That Do Not Prove Work Experience 

Another one of the common Express Entry mistakes is the employment letters that do not prove work experience. 

When most individuals think of employment reference letters, they think of a document you have obtained from your old boss or supervisor highlighting your skills and accomplishments and why a future employer should hire you. These are excellent for your career, but they will not help you with your application for immigrating to Canada. 

Reference letters for Express Entry need you to showcase the following: 

  • A detailed list of your employment duties 
  • Your official job title
  • Dates of employment
  • Salary
  • Average hours per week

Solution: Provide whatever documents you can in order to satisfy the requirements mentioned above. For instance, provide payslips if an official reference letter doesn’t mention your salary. 

Similarly, if your employment documentation does not provide employment/ job duties, get a sworn declaration of your routine tasks from a supervisor/ colleague. It must be mentioned that the final decision regarding the documentation is at the discretion of the visa officer. However, the more supporting documents you can provide, the stronger your case will be.     

4. Misinterpretation 

Misinterpretation is a severe immigration offense. It can result in your Express Entry application being rejected/ refused. Moreover, you could be barred from applying for immigration for several years. 

Solution: Be as honest about the details mentioned in your application, including your career history as well as any medical or criminality issues that you, or anyone accompanying you on your immigration application, have ever had. Not all medical issues are a barrier to Canadian immigration; the same is true for an earlier criminal record. 

Conclusion  

Navigating the Express Entry process can be challenging, but understanding and addressing common mistakes is crucial for success. Ensuring accurate documentation, meeting eligibility requirements, and maintaining transparency throughout the application process significantly boosts your chances of approval. 

By avoiding errors such as incorrect NOC codes, inadequate proof of intent to reside outside Quebec, or insufficient employment reference letters, you position yourself for a smoother immigration journey. 

Remember, honesty and thoroughness are your best allies. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can overcome hurdles and confidently work toward your dream of Canadian permanent residency.

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].