Canada's point system of immigration selection means that it will be easier for you to get into Canada if you meet Canada's designated skilled labour needs. The selection criteria points system considers your application on ten factors to determine if you are likely to be successful in establishing yourself and adapting to Canadian society. The score emphasizes education, practical work experience and your previous experiences in Canada.

If you have a post-secondary education and advanced skills which are in demand in Canada, you will find it easier to qualify.

You must get at least 67 points to be successful (reduced from 75 points in Sept. 2003).

The maximum points available for each of the selection criteria are as follows:

Factor	Points	Note
Education	25	Maximum points for Master's or Ph.D.
Work experience	21
Arranged employment	10	Only for HRDC approved positions
Age	10	Between 21 and 49 years of age
English/French fluency	24	A person fluent in both languages will receive the maximum number of language points (24) and diminishing points depending upon fluency.
Spousal or common-law partner's education	5	Maximum points if spouse or partner has Master's or Ph.D.
Minimum of one year of full-time authorized work in Canada for applicant, applicant's spouse, same-sex partner or common-law partner	5
Minimum 2 years full-time post-secondary study in Canada by applicant, applicant's spouse, same-sex partner or common-law partner	5
Validated employment offer in Canada	5
Family relationship in Canada to applicant, applicant's spouse, same-sex partner or common-law partner	5	Could be son, daughter, mother, father, aunt, uncle, grandmother or grandfather

In some cases, skilled workers can gain faster entry into Canada if they become qualified under the Provincial Nominee program.

Skilled workers must supply documentation of their educational background and work experience.

Some but not all of these selection criteria also apply to immigrants under the business category.

Self-Sufficiency
Skilled worker immigrants must provide evidence that they have sufficient funds available for transfer to Canada to support themselves and their dependents for at least six months after landing in Canada. This is to ensure that the applicant does not apply for financial assistance from Social Services upon arrival in Canada. This requirement is not stringently adhered to by Visa Officers if there is a job waiting for the applicant or his/her spouse in Canada or if there is a relative whom the applicant will make his/her home until locating employment.