Independent Class Application Information

What is an Independent Class application?

Most independent immigrants are skilled workers, who are expected to have the skills, education, work experience, language ability and other qualities needed to participate in the Canadian labor market. The selection criteria, known as the "point" system, focus on occupation, education and training, experience, age, and knowledge of English and/or French. Bonus points are given if relatives in Canada are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. The visa officer will give points for personal suitability.

It is important to note that the visa officer may in his or her discretion refuse to issue a visa to an applicant who does attain a score of eighty (80) or more points if the officer feels that the points awarded do not truly reflect the immigrant's chances successfully establishing him or herself in Canada. Conversely, the visa officer also retains the discretion to issue of immigrant visa to an applicant who earns fewer than, eighty (80) points.

How does the points scale work?

The Immigration Regulations, 1978 require that, when considering an application made by an independent applicant, the visa officer consider a certain criteria set out for the purpose.

These criteria are as follows:

What is the Independent Class application procedure?

Applications for Permanent Residence in Canada as a member of the independent class may be filed with any full-service Canadian Consulate, Embassy or High Commission abroad, in the case of applicants who are outside of Canada or the United States. For those applicants in Canada or the United States, the application may be filed at the Canadian Consulate General - Buffalo, New York Area Processing Center. The applicant does not have to file his or her application with the Consulate nearest their home country although this tends to expedite processing.

Can my family members apply with me?

Spouses of Independent Class applicants can apply together with the principal applicant as a spouse or they may request that their credentials be examined under the Independent Class categories along with the principal applicant's. Minor children (under age 19 or full-time dependent students over 19) may also be included in the principal applicant's application.

What are the Canadian Government application fees?

Application fees for most Canadian immigration matters are expensive. The government application fee for permanent residence cases in $500.00 (CN) per adult applicant (includes spouse) over age 19. Dependents or children of the applicant under age 19 must pay a $100.00 (CN) application fee. In the event of approval, the government charges a $975.00 (CN) "Right of Landing Fee" for each adult applicant over age 19 (includes spouse).

Will I qualify for immigration to Canada?

Please complete our on-line Consultation Form and post all requested information so that we may conduct an assessment of eligibility for you. We will try to assess your case within 24 hours of posting.

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