Foreign work experience can help boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry. However, it must meet specific criteria to be valid. Here’s how you can claim points for your foreign work experience.
Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Work Experience
- Must be skilled work experience under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
- Must be paid work (volunteer work or unpaid internships do not count).
- Must be continuous work for at least one year (1,560 hours).
- Can be full-time (30 hours/week for 12 months) or part-time equivalent.
- Must have been gained in the last 10 years.
How Many CRS Points Can You Get for Foreign Work Experience?
The number of points depends on how many years of experience you have.
| Years of Foreign Work Experience | CRS Points (Without Canadian Work Experience) | CRS Points (With Canadian Work Experience) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 25 points | 40 points |
| 2 years | 50 points | 53 points |
| 3 years or more | 50 points | 64 points |
How to Prove Your Foreign Work Experience
You must provide supporting documents to verify your foreign work experience. Required documents include:
1. Reference Letter from Employer
- Must be on company letterhead with official contact details.
- Should include your job title, job duties, start and end dates, salary, and working hours.
- Must be signed by a manager or HR representative.
2. Pay Slips or Salary Statements
- Helps prove that the work was paid employment.
3. Employment Contract
- Confirms your job details, duration, and salary.
4. Tax Documents
- If available, tax returns can support your employment claim.
How to Maximize Your CRS Score with Foreign Work Experience
1. Improve Your Language Score – Higher IELTS/CELPIP/TEF/TCF scores can increase your CRS points.
2. Get a Canadian Job Offer – A valid LMIA-approved job offer can add 50 to 200 points.
3. Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – A PNP nomination gives 600 points, guaranteeing an ITA.
4. Gain More Work Experience – 3+ years of foreign work experience maximizes your points.
5. Consider Studying in Canada – Earning a Canadian credential can help increase your score.