HOW DOES THE NEW UK POINTS BASED IMMIGRATION SYSTEM COMPARE TO CANADA?

Starting in January 2021, UK is implementing a Canadian style points based immigration system. Foreign Nationals will not only require an employment contract, but will also need to qualify under the new points system.

Individuals will be assessed based on their specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions. Visas will only be issued to those who have obtained the 70 points required to apply for a visa. The first 50 points are awarded for a candidate's English skills and for receiving a job offer in their field of training from an approved sponsor.

Canada's immigration system also allocates points for specific skills, occupations and pre-arranged jobs. However, it also takes into account work experience, age and adaptability. Highly skilled foreign nationals who are applying from outside Canada and who submit a profile through Express Entry under the Federal Skilled Worker program must score at least 67 points for factors such as language skills, work experience, education, age, arranged employment in Canada and adaptability.

In order to qualify for Canadian immigration in the economic class, it is not necessary to have a job offer or a certain salary threshold. Also candidates with work experience in any skilled occupation may be invited to apply for Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry system.

Canada has both Federal and Provincial economic immigration pathways and each has its own unique work experience criteria. Certain Provincial Nominee Programs are open to candidates in specific lines of work that support regional labour needs.