The growing retirement rate and the fast-paced technology have led to an increase in jobs and skills in Canada's STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) occupations. There are plenty of job vacancies in STEM occupations under the selection-based Express Entry category, offering competitive salaries and the added benefits of being a permanent resident holder.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) professionals can apply for a Canada PR Visa from India at any time of the year. However, there are certain factors to consider when determining the best time for application. 

Factors Determining the Best Time for STEM Application

• Express Entry Draws: Canada's Express Entry system is a popular pathway for skilled workers, including STEM professionals. The best time to apply within Express Entry is when you have a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, as this increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the next draw.

• CRS Score: Regularly check the minimum CRS score required for receiving an ITA in recent Express Entry draws. If your CRS score is close to or higher than the cutoff, it might be a good time to submit your application.

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces in Canada have PNPs with streams targeting specific occupations, including STEM fields. These programs often have lower CRS score requirements and can provide additional points. Check if any province aligns with your qualifications and occupation.

• Job Opportunities: Having a job offer or being eligible for a job in Canada can significantly boost your CRS score. If you secure a job offer from a Canadian employer, it might be an opportune time to apply.

• Express Entry Draws Schedule: Express Entry draws usually happen every two weeks. Keeping an eye on the frequency and pattern of draws can help you strategize when to submit your application.

• Language Proficiency and ECA: Ensure you have your language proficiency test results (IELTS or CELPIP) and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) ready before applying.

• Points Maximization: Take advantage of any opportunities to maximize your CRS points, such as improving your language scores, obtaining additional education, gaining more work experience, or getting a provincial nomination.

Occupations under the STEM category

Apply for Canada PR and work under one of the 24 eligible occupations under the STEM category, listed below -

• NOC 20010 Engineering managers

• NOC 20011 Architecture and science managers

• NOC 20012 Computer and Information Systems Managers

• NOC 21200 Architects

• NOC 21201 Landscape Architects

• NOC 21202 Urban and land use planners

• NOC 21203 Land surveyors

• NOC 21210 Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries

• NOC 21211 Data Scientists

• NOC 21220 Cybersecurity Specialists

• NOC 21221 Business systems specialists

• NOC 21222 Information systems specialists

• NOC 21223 Database analysts and data administrators

• NOC 21230 Computer systems developers and programmers

• NOC 21231 Software engineers and designers

• NOC 21232 Software developers and programmers

• NOC 21233 Web designers

• NOC 21234 Web developers and programmers

• NOC 21300 Civil Engineers

• NOC 21310 Electrical and Electronics engineers

• NOC 21311 Computer Engineers (except Software Engineers and Designers)

• NOC 21321 Industrial and manufacturing engineers

• NOC 21322 Metallurgical and materials engineers

• NOC 41400 Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers

Eligibility Criteria for STEM Occupations in Canada

Your eligibility for Canada PR under the STEM category will be determined by your - 

• Ability to communicate in a specific language of Canada.

• Work experience in a specific Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) type of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

• Educational credentials.

To meet the eligibility criteria, potential candidates for Express Entry must possess a minimum of six months of full-time employment experience, or an equivalent duration of part-time work, within a qualifying STEM occupation. This work experience history should fall within the three-year period before the submission of their Canadian immigration application. It is essential that applicants satisfy the specific minimum work experience requirement associated with the Express Entry-managed program under which they are applying.

3 Steps to Apply for Canada PR

Follow the steps given below to become a permanent resident in Canada - 

Step 1 - Determine your Eligibility

Before starting your Canada PR visa application process, it is essential to check your Canada PR visa eligibility, which calculates your points based on factors like age, education, work experience, language skills (English and/or French), arranged employment, and adaptability.

Step 2 - Create an Express Entry Profile

Once you know your eligibility for Canada PR, you must create an online profile through the government’s IRCC website. Complete the form with correct and complete information about your work experience, language skills, education, and other relevant details.

Your profile will be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information you provide.

Step 3 - Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and submit an application

IRCC conducts draws from the Express Entry pool on a regular basis in which they invite eligible candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency.

Once you receive an ITA, you will have to submit the completed application for a Canada PR visa within the given timeframe along with supporting documents. You have to also undergo medical examination and police clearance during the process and prove you have enough funds to support yourself and your family unless you have a valid employment letter or provincial nomination.

Conclusion

Remember that immigration policies can change over time, and eligibility criteria may vary. Consulting with an immigration consultant or lawyer who specializes in Canadian immigration can provide you with tailored advice based on your specific situation and the most current information. Nationwide Visas assist you throughout the Canada PR process and help you understand the specific requirements of your situation. With 16+ years of experience and thousands of successful application processing, Nationwide Visas is a one-stop solution for all immigration-related matters. Connect today!