Maple News reports that Canada continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for Chinese nationals seeking permanent residency. As part of its Immigration Levels Plan, Canada targets to welcome 465,000 new permanent residents by the end of 2023, with this figure set to rise to 500,000 annually by 2025. In 2022 alone, Canada admitted over 437,000 new permanent residents, with 31,815 arriving from China — making China the second-largest source of immigrants that year.
According to official data, Canada is home to nearly 1.8 million immigrants of Chinese origin, with major communities located in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver. Many are drawn by Canada’s robust job market, excellent education system, public healthcare, and a diverse and inclusive society.
One of the primary avenues for Chinese nationals to obtain Canadian permanent residency is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), part of the country’s Express Entry system. The FSWP is specifically designed for professionals living outside Canada who do not yet have a job offer or Canadian work experience.
To qualify under the FSWP, candidates must meet several criteria:
– At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience within the last 10 years in an eligible skilled occupation listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
– A valid language test result showing proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) in either English or French.
– Canadian academic credentials or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for international qualifications.
– A score of at least 67 out of 100 on the IRCC’s selection factor points grid.
– Proof of funds to support themselves and any accompanying family members.
Applicants must first create a profile in Canada’s Express Entry system, administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Their profile is assessed using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points for factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.
In a recent update by IRCC, Canada has introduced category-based draws within the Express Entry selection system. These targeted invitations give priority to candidates with strong French language skills or professional backgrounds in areas facing labor shortages. Occupations prioritized under these new draws include healthcare professionals, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) specialists, tradespeople, transport workers, and agriculture-related roles.
For Chinese professionals considering immigration, the evolving Express Entry system offers flexibility and opportunity, especially for those who align their profiles with these high-demand categories. As Canada’s population continues to grow through immigration, strategic programs like the FSWP ensure that newcomers can succeed and contribute meaningfully to the Canadian economy and society.