Applicants must have at least one year of full-time work experience in the past 10 years in any skilled occupation. In addition, the new selection system requires a pass mark of 67 out of 100 points on the following factors: age, education, work experience, language ability and adaptability.

On September 18, 2003 Citizenship and Immigration Canada announced that the pass mark for those applying to immigrate to Canada as skilled workers (to all provinces except Quebec), has changed from 75 to 67. This change is effective immediately.

All new skilled worker applicants and those currently in the system who have not yet received a selection decision, will be assessed with a pass mark of 67.

The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada may amend the pass mark from time to time. Changes to the pass mark reflect the changes in the Canadian labour market and in the broader economy and society. The pass mark also reflects the changing demands on the part of prospective immigrants to Canada.

Canada has many employment opportunities and welcomes thousands of skilled workers from around the world every year. The main objective for encouraging this category of immigration is to attract people with invaluable education and employment skills who will contribute to Canada's economic growth and development.

In order to have a good chance of success under the Skilled Worker category you should: