Can Foreign Work Experience be Used in Express Entry Profile?
Yes, you can definitely include your foreign work experience in your Express Entry profile, even if it predates your study permit period. This article provides a detailed explanation of how foreign work experience can benefit your application.
Key Points to Consider
The incorporation of foreign work experience in your Express Entry profile can significantly enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Here are some key points to consider:
Eligibility of Foreign Work Experience
Foreign work experience is valid if it meets the following criteria:
It must be paid work The work experience should have been acquired after you turned 18 The occupation must be listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) under skill types 0, A, or BExpress Entry Programs
Express Entry is a points-based system designed to facilitate the immigration of skilled workers, graduates, and international students to Canada. The different programs included under Express Entry are:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The FSWP requires at least one year of continuous work experience in a skilled occupation within the last 10 years. This experience can be from your home country or even before your studies in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
CEC is designed for international graduates with work experience in Canada. However, if you have significant foreign work experience, it can boost your CRS score and make your application more competitive.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Similar to FSWP, FSTP is geared towards skilled tradespeople. Foreign work experience in relevant trades is essential for eligibility.
CRS Points for Foreign Work Experience
Foreign work experience can earn you points for up to three years of experience in the CRS system. The more experience you have, the more points you can gain, thereby enhancing your profile's competitiveness.
How to Include Foreign Work Experience
Including your foreign work experience effectively requires detailed documentation and accurate reporting. Here’s how to do it:
Documentation
Refer to letters from employers that include your job title, duties, employment period, and salary Ensure these documents are on official company letterhead, signed, and datedExpress Entry Profile
Accurately input your work experience in the relevant sections of your profile Ensure that your job duties align with NOC descriptionsExamples
Example 1: Working as a Software Engineer (NOC 2173) for two years in your home country counts towards your Express Entry profile.
Example 2: Being a Mechanical Engineer (NOC 2132) for one year before starting your studies in Canada is also valid.
Tips for Inclusion
Accuracy and Consistency: Ensure all your details are accurate and consistent across all documents Proof of Employment: Gather evidence such as pay slips and employment contracts to substantiate your claimsBy leveraging your foreign work experience, you can significantly improve your CRS score, increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!