Canada has always been a top expat destination, but it is working to attract even more expats with new changes to the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System that is now in effect.

What you should know about Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System

Welcoming siblings and fluent French speakers

As of the 6^th of June 2017, any candidates in the Express Entry pool who have siblings in Canada may obtain additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The reason that Canada’s Immigration Minister gives for this change is that studies reveal that immigrants who are looking to build a new life in Canada integrate more easily into the Canadian society when they have siblings in the country. Candidates with a sibling in Canada may now obtain 15 additional points. These points may also be awarded if the candidate’s spouse or common-law partner has a sibling in Candidate.

Other changes in addition to the CRS changes is that it is no longer necessary for potential immigrants to register in the Canada Job Bank – although the option still remains for candidates to enter this Job Bank and pursue employment via this free service. Extra points, 15 to 30 are also being offered to candidates with strong French language abilities.

These new changes will not reduce the CRS points of any candidates already in the system. Most will retain their existing score – while those with a Canadian sibling or with proven French skills will see their points increase.

A focus on skilled immigration

Canada has also unveiled a new strategy to attract skilled workers from all around the globe, with the focus of the plan being to fast-track their work permit applications. Candidates who have a qualifying job will obtain an additional 50 to 200 extra points and candidates with a provincial nomination will obtain 600 points.

The Canadian government has always been willing to employ foreign workers – especially those with the skills necessary for the growth of the Canadian economy. In the past Canada suffered from a deficit of skilled engineers, and today those expats with skills in engineering are still in high demand.

Top destinations in Canada

If you are thinking of moving to Canada, you might be interested in the 2016 MoneySense survey, which surveyed the best places to live in Canada. The top destinations are:

• Ottawa – which ranks highly for quality of life, cleanliness and the best community to live in, in the Americas. Just under 1 million people live in Ottawa and the population is expected to grow by 3% over the next three years
• Burlington – Burlington is a city in Ontario and is the perfect city for people looking for big-city living close to nature. Featuring over 115 parks, it provides a healthy balanced lifestyle with many good schools, colleges and healthcare facilities.
• Oakville – a town in southern Ontario, Oakville is just 30 minutes from Toronto and an hour’s drive from the US border. It is a popular destination for life science companies, especially pharmaceuticals and as home to Siemens and The Ford Motor Company, it attracts many residents who work in these fields.
• St Albert – this small town is rated as the best small town to live in, in Canada. It has great schools, healthcare and recreational facilities and an abundance of bike trails and outdoor rinks. For those looking for employment, it offers incomes that are among the highest in Canada and it has a low employment rate of 4.3%
• Boucherville – this is one of the oldest municipalities in Québec and scores high in almost every category from affordable housing to income and population growth. It is the perfect destination for families who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife, while also offering all the amenities of a big city.

If you’re thinking of immigrating to Canada and need any advice about your financial emigration, contact us today and we’ll help you on the path to financial freedom in your new home.