Got an ITA for your Express Entry application? What next?

If you have applied for permanent residency in Canada under the Express Entry system and have received an invitation to apply (ITA), the next question will what should be your next step?

Once you receive an ITA, you will have to submit a complete and correct application for which you will be given 90 days. If you fail to do so within 90 days, then your invitation will become null and void. So, you should make the best use of this time to submit an accurate application.

 Submit a complete application

Documents: The first step is to gather all the required documents. Through the ITA you will know under which program you have been selected to apply for your PR visa- CEC or any other Express Entry program. If you check the Express Entry portal, you will find a list of documents that is specific to the program you have applied for. You will have to submit these documents with your application, the documents can include:

• Documents supporting your English language test results
• Civil status documents such as your birth certificate
• Documents in proof of your education achievements
• Documents in proof of your work experience
• Medical certificate
• Police clearance certificate
• Proof of funds
• Photos

You will also have to provide a medical certificate from a doctor approved by the IRCC.

Based on your situation, you will be required to submit additional documents, ensure that you have all of them ready.

Biometrics:You will have to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photos)but if you have given your biometrics in the last ten years as part of your application for either a work permit, student visa or visitor visa, you are exempt from giving your biometrics again. This exemption is a temporary measure in view of Covid-19 pandemic.

In case you have to give your biometrics, you can go to the nearest biometric collection center.

The next steps

After you have completed your medical tests, biometrics and the required documents, you can submit your application.

Processing times can differ, but approximately it will take six months for your PR visa to be processed.

You may have to attend a short interview if the IRCC feels the need, before giving the final decision on your application.

If your application is accepted, you will receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence by mail from IRCC along with instructions on the next steps. You may be required to go to a port of entry where you will submit your COPR and provide evidence of having enough funds to support you and your family.

 If you are staying outside Canada, you will have to submit your passport at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to get your visa to enter Canada. You can collect your passport and COPR once the process is complete.

Getting an ITA is only one of the steps to get your PR visa, the next steps in the PR visa process form the crucial last stage in procuring your PR visa to Canada.