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Common Pitfalls in Canada Immigration For STEM Applicants & How to Avoid Them


common-pitfalls-in-canada-immigration-for-stem-occupation-workers

Last Updated On : January 31 , 2025


Coming to Canada as a professional in STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—opens a lot of possibilities. The application process for stem express entry is complex, though, hence even small mistakes could cause delays or rejections. Knowing typical mistakes and how to prevent them can help you to guarantee a smooth travel. Let us explore these difficulties and offer doable remedies.

  1. Incorrect National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code
  2. Low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score After Paying for Express Entry
  3. Language Test Result Expiry
  4. Insufficient Proof of Funds


1. Incorrect National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code

Your immigration application depends much on the NOC code, which specifies your occupation, duties, and degree of ability. Selecting the incorrect NOC code could cause delays or denials of applications.

Common Errors with NOC Codes:

  • Mismatch Between Job Duties and NOC Code: Immigration officials cross your employment responsibilities with those specified under the chosen NOC code. Should a discrepancy exist, your application could be turned down.
  • Incorrect NOC Version: Canada updates its NOC classifications periodically. Using an outdated version can cause issues.

Example of STEM Occupations and Correct NOC Codes:

Occupation NOC Code (2021 Version) Job Duties
Software Engineer 2173 Design, develop, and maintain software systems.
Data Scientist 21211 Analyze data and develop predictive models.
Mechanical Engineer 2132 Design and oversee the manufacturing of machinery.
Cybersecurity Specialist 21222 Assess and mitigate security risks in IT systems.

Solution:

  • Use the NOC Code Lookup Tool to verify the correct code.
  • Align your job duties with those mentioned under the chosen NOC code.
  • Double-check the NOC version specified in your immigration program.

2. Low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score After Paying for Express Entry

The CRS guides the Express Entry system in candidate ranking. After paying the Express Entry fee, many candidates are disappointed to find they fall short of the necessary CRS level for an Invite to Apply (ITA).

What Happens?

  • If your CRS score is below the cutoff in a draw, you won’t receive an ITA, even after paying the processing fee.
  • STEM professionals often face intense competition, particularly for popular streams.

STEM-Specific CRS Trends:

For example, in recent STEM-specific Express Entry draws, the cutoff scores were as follows:

Draw Date CRS Cut Off Score Number of Invitations
July 5, 2023 486 5000
August 2, 2023 479 4000

Solution:

Improve Your CRS Score:

To improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Canadian immigration, you should focus on gaining Canadian work experience, improving your language results score (English/French), and checking if you are eligible to get a provincial nominee certificate. We have a dedicated blog page discussing how to increase CRS score.

Be Strategic:

Regularly monitor CRS trends and apply when your score aligns with the draw thresholds.


3. Language Test Result Expiry

Most immigration routes depend on language ability as a basic prerequisite. But language exam results—such as IELTS or CELPIP—have only two years of validity. If they expire during the application process, it can disrupt your plans.

What Happens?

  • Expired results are no longer valid for Express Entry or other immigration programs.
  • This could lead to the rejection of your profile or a requirement to retake the test.

Solution:

  • Plan Ahead: Ensure your language test results remain valid throughout the process. If your results are close to expiring, retake the test early.
  • Extend Validity in Advance: Some provinces accept updated test results if submitted promptly.

Steps to Take If Results Expire Mid-Process:

  1. Retake the test as soon as possible.
  2. Inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) about the updated results.
  3. Update your Express Entry profile with the new scores.

4. Insufficient Proof of Funds

STEM applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves and their families upon arriving in Canada. Insufficient proof of funds can lead to application rejection.

Required Funds for STEM Occupation Workers (2025 Figures):

Family Size Funds Required (CAD)
1 $13,757
2 $17,127
3 $21,055
4 $25,564

Common Mistakes:

  • Submitting outdated bank statements.
  • Failing to provide proof of ownership for large deposits.
  • Not maintaining the required amount throughout the application process.

Solution:

  • Maintain Stability: Ensure your account balance meets the required threshold for at least six months before applying.
  • Provide Documentation:
    • Bank statements from the past six months.
    • Proof of assets like fixed deposits, investments, or property.
    • Explanation for any large deposits.

Pro Tip: Regularly check the IRCC website for updates to the required funds.


Conclusion

Navigating Canada's immigration system as a STEM professional calls for careful preparation and attention to detail. Your chances of success will rise if you steer clear of frequent mistakes including inaccurate NOC codes, low CRS scores, expired language test results, and insufficient cash.

To remain aware and ready, use tools including the Job Bank and formal instructions from IRCC. By being proactive, you guarantee a better road to fulfill your desire of living and working in Canada.