Canada to launch express entry for qualified economic immigrants

Canada is to launch a new electronic system, called Express Entry, next month which will shorten the processing time for qualified applicants immigrating to Canada to six months or less, Canada's top immigration official said here on Monday.

"With the launch of Express Entry in January, our government will build on our strong and proven record of helping immigrants succeed, and helping Canada's economy thrive," said Chris Alexander, Canada's citizenship and immigration minister. "Starting Jan. 1, we will be able to select the top economic immigrants who will contribute to our economy, labor market and communities," he added.

The new electronic system will manage applications from immigrants for permanent residence from three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program and the Canadian Experience Class.

Meanwhile, the Canadian provinces and territories will also be able to pick candidates from the Express Entry system to meet local talent demands.

Immigrants with valid job offers or provincial/territorial nominations will be considered first. Once qualified foreign nationals are selected from the pool, their applications will be processed within six months.

Alexander also highlighted that additional information is published on his ministry's website to help potential immigrants and employers understand the new system, and to promote Canada as a destination of choice based on a strong economy, low taxes and job opportunities.

The system will launch at 12 noon EST Jan. 1, 2015 and the first draw for an invitation to apply is planned for the last week of January, according to a press release on Canadian government's website. Enditem