Core requirements before entering the pool

Eligible immigration program
Meet the rules of at least one Express Entry program. For overseas skilled workers, the Federal Skilled Worker Program is often the first program to evaluate.
Approved language result
Use IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, PTE Core, TEF Canada or TCF Canada. Minimum levels depend on the program.
Foreign education assessment
Use a valid immigration-purpose ECA when claiming points for education completed in Pakistan or meeting Federal Skilled Worker education rules.
Qualifying work experience
Work must satisfy the selected program and NOC requirements. Evidence should support dates, hours, pay and duties.
Admissibility
Applicants and accompanying family members may need police certificates, medical examinations and other checks.

Federal Skilled Worker minimums

IRCC’s Federal Skilled Worker selection rules include skilled work experience, language, education and a minimum score under the separate 100-point selection grid. Passing that grid does not mean the CRS score is high enough for an invitation. After eligibility, the Express Entry profile receives its separate CRS ranking.

Proof of funds

Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades candidates generally need settlement funds unless IRCC’s exemption applies. The official table currently starts at CAD 15,263 for one family member and increases with family size. Family size includes a spouse or dependent children even when they are not accompanying the principal applicant.

The bank letter must follow IRCC’s requirements, including account details, current balances, average balances for the past six months and outstanding debts. Property equity and borrowed money do not count as accessible settlement funds.

Documents commonly prepared in Pakistan

  • Valid passports for the applicant and family members.
  • Approved language test report.
  • ECA report and reference number.
  • Employment letters and supporting records consistent with the claimed NOC.
  • Police certificates when requested under IRCC’s country rules.
  • Marriage, divorce, birth or adoption records where applicable.
  • Bank letter and financial records when proof of funds is required.
  • Certified translations for documents not in English or French, following IRCC rules.
Your personalized checklist controls

This page is a planning list. After an invitation, the IRCC account generates the actual document checklist for the candidate’s program and family situation.

Requirements that are often misunderstood

  • A job offer is not mandatory for all Express Entry candidates and no longer adds CRS job-offer points.
  • A consultant cannot guarantee selection or an invitation.
  • A high CRS score does not correct program ineligibility or missing documents.
  • A Pakistani master’s degree should not be entered as a Canadian master’s unless the ECA reports that equivalency.
  • Settlement funds and application fees are different amounts.

Official sources

Check IRCC’s program eligibility comparison, proof-of-funds rules and the personalized checklist in your account.