Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issues an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to the candidates that were chosen via the Express Entry system. The issuance of an ITA is a significant step, and you can now properly request the permanent residence in Canada.
When you have an ITA, you must work fast and start preparing an application. Consultation with an established immigration expert may assist in making sure that your application is full and correct.
Different scenarios and actions
When one is given an ITA, it gives three possible outcomes according to the response of the candidate. Applying to the ITA would entail having a complete application during the period.
| Possible situations | Reasons | What to expect next |
| ITA accepted | Candidate submits a complete application within 60 days | Application is reviewed by IRCC, and most decisions are made within a few months |
| ITA declined | Candidate chooses to decline the invitation | Profile is returned to the Express Entry pool for future draws |
| ITA expired | Application is not submitted within 60 days | Candidate must create a new Express Entry profile to re-enter the pool |
Processing of ITA
IRCC regularly holds Express Entry draws, typically after every few weeks, to welcome the highest ranking candidates in the Express Entry based on their CRS scores.
When a candidate is not awarded an ITA, he or she can keep the profile alive in the pool of up to 12 months. In this time, the applicants are advised to upgrade their CRS score in order to have a higher chance in subsequent draws.
An ITA expires after 60 days and no extensions are allowed. That is why it is recommended to begin gathering and sorting out all the necessary documents as soon as your Express Entry profile is created. This is a way of being prepared so that you can be able to apply on time when invited.
Important documents for Invitation to Apply
In the making of an Express Entry profile, only fundamental information including education and language outcomes are needed. But when you are granted an ITA then you will be required to furnish the complete documentation to back your claims.
The specific document checklist can be different based on your program, background, and other personal conditions. Nevertheless, the following documents are usually necessary:
- Proof of date of birth
- Valid passport
- Language test results
- Medical examination reports
- Recent photographs
- Employment reference letters
- Police clearance certificates
More of them might be asked according to your profile. The process of collecting such documents may be time consuming and it is very advisable to prepare in advance.
The award of an ITA does not necessarily mean that a person is approved to gain permanent residence. It is important to ensure a successful application that is full and accurate and submitted on time.
This can be achieved by beginning your documentation process in time so that delays and errors can be avoided. Having a qualified immigration consultant can also enhance your chances as he or she can make sure that your application fits all requirements.
At 2M Immigration, we guide the applicants throughout the Express Entry process. Our team will give you individual consulting services so that you can create a good application and bring your goal of settling in Canada a step closer.