Wednesday, February 12, 2025

What is Invitation to Apply (ITA)? How can you receive it?

The Invitation to Apply (ITAs) is document issued by Canada government through its immigration programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and others, to candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for permanent residency.

For example, in the Express Entry system, candidates who score above a certain threshold in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) are typically issued an ITA to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Upon receiving an ITA, candidates have a specified time frame to submit their application and all the documents to confirm everything that he has stated while creating express entry profile.

How to receive an ITA for Express entry Canada?

ITAs can be issued by province and or other immigration programs, below are the steps to get ITA from Express Entry Canada:

  1. Create and Submit Express Entry Profile: Start by submitting your Express Entry profile on the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Submit all your details and information for Express Entry Canada.
  2. Enter Express Entry Pool: Once your profile is submitted, you’ll automatically enter the Express Entry pool of candidates.
  3. Ranking with CRS: Your profile will be ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates various factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and others. If you meet minimum CRS score for Express entry Canada you will be invited in the express entry draw.
  4. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): Candidates with high CRS scores will periodically receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.
  5. Submit e-APR: Upon receiving an ITA, you’ll need to submit an electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR) within the specified timeframe.
  6. Application Processing: IRCC will review your e-APR, along with any supporting documents, and conduct necessary checks.
  7. Approval and Permanent Residence: If your e-APR is approved, you and your dependent family members included in the application will be granted Canadian permanent residence status.

What do to after receiving ITA?

Once you receive ITA, this would be your first step in receiving Canada PR. Congratulation, you meet the most important step already.

You have 60 days to submit your gather your documents and submit them after receiving an invitation from IRCC.

  1. Review the ITA Letter Carefully: Understand the requirements outlined in the ITA letter.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents listed in the ITA. You must submit all the documents that prove the information that you submitted while creating Express Entry profile.
  3. Complete Application Forms: Fill out all forms accurately and honestly.
  4. Submit Application and Pay Fees: Send your application along with any required fees.
  5. Wait for Further Instructions: Await confirmation of receipt and follow any additional instructions.
  6. Monitor Application Status: Keep track of your application’s progress online.
  7. Prepare for Medical Examination (if required): Arrange for any necessary medical tests.
  8. Prepare for Arrival: Start planning for your move to the destination country.
  9. Be Patient: Understand that the process may take time.

An average Express Entry profile is processed within 6 months after getting ITA and AOR.

Documents required after receiving ITA

Once you receive ITA, you will need to complete your eAPR (electronic Application for Permanent Residence) basically submitting all the information you have already provided in while creating express entry profile.

These documents should also show that you’re eligible to enter Canada. If you can’t get a specific document, it’s important to explain why in a letter. Mention the efforts you made to get it and suggest alternatives if possible.

Note: Make sure all documents are in English or French. If they’re not, you’ll need to get them translated by an authorized translator.

1. Identity and Civil Status Documents

  • Passports for you and your family members.
  • Birth certificates or alternative proof for each person.
  • Marriage, divorce, or death certificates as applicable.

2. Language Test Results

  • Provide copies of language test results for you and your spouse if applicable.

3. Work Experience Documents

  • Reference letters, employment contracts, payslips.
  • Canadian work experience proof: T4 slips, CRA documents, work permit copy.

4. Education Documents

  • Certificates, diplomas, transcripts for all completed education.
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report if applicable.

5. Proof of Funds

  • Show you have enough funds based on family size or proof of arranged employment.

6. Medical Examination Confirmation: Submit electronic copies.

  • Police Clearance Certificates: From every country resided in for over six months since age 18.
  • Photos: Two digital photos for each family member.

7. Government Processing Fees:

  • Principal Applicant: $1325
  • Spouse: $1325
  • Dependent children: $225 each

8. Provincial Nomination

Provide a copy if claimed points for it.

9. Proof of Relative

If claimed, show proof of relative’s Canadian status, residency, and relationship.

10. Offer of Employment

If claimed, provide a job offer letter and relevant details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to receive an ITA?

There’s no specific time frame to get ITA, It all depends how frequent draws are taken place. Express entry draws are conducted about every 2 week, so, if you profile is under Express Entry Canada then it’s high likely you will be invited within 2 weeks to 1 month considering things like you meet the minimum CRS score, if it’s targeted draw you are under targeted occupations and more.

While province or other program invitation could take time, for example OINP: Skilled trade takes around 1-2 months for their draws.

Can my family members be included in an eAPR application?

Yes, you can include your family members in eAPR.

How much does it cost to submit an express entry profile?

The application costs vary based on family size, countries of residence, and translation needs.

  • Principal Applicant: $1325
  • Spouse: $1325
  • Dependent children: $225 per child
  • Biometrics: $85 per person
  • Medical examination fees: typically around $450 for adults and $250 for children
  • Police clearance certificates: average about $100 per country.

How long will an application take to process once you submit the application?

The process after you submit the application depends on your profile and if there’s any additional documents required. Usually most express entry profiles are processed within 6 months.

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