cover letter for canada pr application

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How to write a cover letter for a permanent residence application

A cover letter for a permanent residence application is used to address any doubts or concerns that an immigration officer from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada may have regarding your application.

A cover letter, also known as a letter of explanation, may be useful in assisting officials in determining whether or not you are eligible to immigrate through the program of choice since it is your duty to demonstrate that you are qualified to apply under the chosen immigration program.

Table of contents

Sample cover letter, when to add a cover letter.

All Canadian immigration program applications are human-assessed by immigration officers and not machine-scanned. So when you’re writing your letter of explanation, keep in mind that you must persuade the immigration agent that your case is genuine and meets the criteria, but that you are unable to produce the documents to demonstrate this for whatever reason.

The immigration officers who process applications are busy, analyzing a large number of cases every day. Consequently, it is beneficial to maintain a respectful tone throughout the letter and state your intent early on. Try to avoid giving irrelevant information that won’t aid your cause.

Here are some simple rules to follow to write a successful cover letter:

• Should be short, concise and factual
• Keep it to a maximum of 1-2 pages
• You do not need an index for your papers. IRCC system gives you a document checklist

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Your Full name                                                                   

Your Mailing address

Your Telephone

Your Email address

Re: UCI number XXXX-XXX

Dear Visa Officer,

I am applying for Express Entry under the Canadian Experience Class.

I am attaching this letter to provide an explanation on the following:

Explain the situation.

Insert your request here.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

If you have any questions or concerns about your application, it may be in your best interest to include a properly drafted cover letter to increase your chances of being granted PR status.

If any of the following describes you, among other relevant factors, then adding a cover letter may help with processing your application:

• If the proof you submitted to verify settlement funds does not contain all of the required fields and information
• If your application does not contain all of the required fields and information, such as details about the responsibilities you were obliged to perform during your time in that profession
• If you cannot get a police clearance certificate by the time you need to submit your application
• If you can not obtain a birth certificate if you are from a country with an unstable government

When not to add a cover letter

In some cases, a letter of explanation will not be useful and it cannot fix all the gaps in your application or rectify missing information.

Below are some examples of times when a letter of explanation will not aid your case:

• If your application is missing a key document, such as a passport
• If you have not included the results of a medical examination
• If your documents have not been converted into English or French before submitting your application

It is important to remember that a letter of explanation is simply an explanation. The only thing it can do is explain why a certain document wasn’t submitted. You cannot use it to explain when you don’t meet the eligibility requirements that the PR application process entails.

Is a cover letter for a permanent residence application mandatory?

No, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada does not need or request a cover letter with applications. Although not mandatory, a letter of explanation may be beneficial to your application process.

Do I need to combine the cover letter with each document?

A cover letter is not required to be merged with every additional document you submit along with your application. Address all the issues in a single document and submit it as a Letter of Explanation.

Does the cover letter need to be notarized?

Is the cover letter required to be notarized? No, the cover letter does not have to be notarized. It doesn’t have to be self-attested, either.

Why does the cover letter not appear under additional documents?

Have you submitted your documents online and the cover letter or letter of explanation does not appear under additional documents?

This is a technical issue where the Letter of Explanation tab disappears.

To fix this issue, attempt Clearing your browser cache and logging into your online account using the incognito mode.

A cover letter for a permanent residence application can be helpful when trying to explain gaps or missing information from an application. The cover letter should be concise, factual and respectful. If you have any questions or concerns about your application, get in contact .

Nicola Wightman

Nicola Wightman is a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) under the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). Her professional immigration consultant number is R706497.

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Canada Cover Letter Format And Free Samples (2023)

In Canada, a well-written cover letter can be just as important as a strong resume when it comes to landing your dream job.

While cover letters may seem daunting, they are an essential component of the job application process. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate your professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for the position.

In this article, we’ll provide tips and guidelines to help you create a compelling Canada cover letter that will impress employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Canada Cover Letter Font

6. signature, researching the company, proofreading and editing, cover letter sample 3 (fresher), canada cover letter basics.

A cover letter is a document that introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications, skills, and experience. It is your chance to make a great first impression and convince hiring managers that you are the right person for the job.

Canada Cover Letter Format

In Canada, a cover letter should follow a standard format that includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s contact information. Begin with your name, address, and contact details, followed by the date and the recipient’s name, and address. Use a clear and organized layout to ensure your cover letter is easily readable.

Canada Cover Letter Length

A Canadian cover letter should be concise and limited to one page in length . This allows you to effectively showcase your qualifications and experiences without overwhelming the reader.

It is crucial to choose a professional-looking font for your cover letter. Common font choices include Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Be consistent with your font selection throughout the cover letter to maintain a polished appearance.

When it comes to font size, aim for a balance between readability and space efficiency. A font size of 10 to 12 points is generally considered appropriate in a Canadian cover letter. This ensures the text is large enough to be easily readable, but not too large that it takes up excessive space on the page.

Canada Cover Letter Structure

The structure of a Canadian cover letter typically consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion .

• In the introduction , you should introduce yourself and express your interest in the position.
• In the body , focus on your qualifications, relevant skills, and experiences that make you a valuable candidate for the job.
• Conclude by thanking the reader for their time and consideration.

Canadian cover letters typically begin with a header containing the applicant’s name, job title, city and province, phone number, and email address.

It’s also essential to include the current date . The header should be consistent with the one used in the applicant’s resume for a cohesive presentation.

2. Greeting

In the greeting section, address the hiring manager by their full name and title. If the name is not available, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Personalization is preferred, so make an effort to find the hiring manager’s name when possible.

The opening paragraph serves as an introduction and an opportunity to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Applicants should briefly mention the job title and company they’re applying to, and express enthusiasm for both the position and the organization.

Including keywords from the job posting and aligning personal skills with the employer’s requirements will make the opening more impactful.

In the body of the cover letter, applicants should elaborate on their relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. It’s necessary to make connections between the job requirements and the applicant’s qualifications.

• When discussing experiences, be specific and focus on accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities.
• Use bullet points or short paragraphs to present the information in a clear and easy-to-read manner.

The body of the letter should effectively convey the applicant’s background and qualifications while demonstrating a genuine interest in the role and the company.

The closing section is the final opportunity to leave a positive impression on the hiring manager. Here, applicants should reiterate their enthusiasm for the position and summarize their qualifications .

It’s also appropriate to politely request an interview and express gratitude for the manager’s time and consideration. End the closing paragraph with a professional and respectful closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.”

Lastly, include a signature in the cover letter which may consist of the applicant’s full name and any relevant professional designation or certification.

If the cover letter is being sent electronically, either type the full name or use an electronic/digital signature as a more personal touch.

Customizing Your Cover Letter

Tailoring to the job.

When customizing your cover letter, it is essential to tailor it to the specific job you are applying for. Start by carefully reviewing the job description and noting the key requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications mentioned.

Then, in your cover letter, emphasize how your skills and experiences align with these aspects of the job. In doing so, be sure to use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your understanding of the role.

Split your text into concise paragraphs that focus on different aspects of the job, such as your relevant experience, technical skills, and soft skills. You may also consider using bullet points to highlight specific achievements that directly relate to the position.

In addition to tailoring your cover letter to the job, you should also research the company and demonstrate how your values and goals align with theirs . This shows that you have taken the time to understand the organization’s culture and objectives and that you would be a good fit for the team.

You can find information about a company’s values and goals on its website or through news articles, press releases, and social media accounts.

Remember, customizing your cover letter for each position you apply to and researching the company can make a significant difference in making a positive first impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. By focusing on these aspects, you demonstrate your attention to detail and genuine interest in the job and company, improving your chances of landing an interview.

Writing Tips for a Canadian Cover Letter

Highlighting achievements.

When crafting a Canadian cover letter, it is essential to focus on the tangible accomplishments in your career. Mention specific achievements  that demonstrate your capabilities and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.

Include quantifiable results, such as increased sales or improved customer satisfaction, to clearly showcase your successes. Use active verbs and concise language to communicate your achievements in a compelling manner.

Focusing on Skills and Qualifications

Employers want to see that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed in the role. Align your skills with the requirements listed in the job description , and provide examples of how you have applied these skills in previous positions. Include both technical and transferable skills that will make you an asset to the company.

Providing specific examples can help create a strong connection between you and the organization, increasing your chances of being invited for an interview.

In addition, mention any relevant education or certifications that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

Emphasizing Value

An effective cover letter should articulate the  value  you would bring to the company. Explain how your skills, achievements, and experiences will contribute to their success.

Relate your accomplishments to the goals and objectives of the company, and demonstrate your understanding of their priorities and challenges. By doing this, you will show potential employers that you can make a positive impact on their organization.

As a final step before submitting your cover letter, make sure to proofread and edit your work thoroughly. This includes checking for proper grammar, spelling, and formatting.

Ensure that your cover letter is one page long, left-aligned with single spacing , and has one-inch margins .

Use a professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, at a size between 10 and 12 points. Double-check your work to eliminate any errors, as these may create a negative impression on potential employers.

With a well-written cover letter, applicants can confidently present themselves as an attractive candidate, ultimately improving their chances of career success.

Canada Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter sample 1.

Here’s a sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Cover Letter Sample 2

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada, more suitable for freshers:

Writing an effective cover letter is a critical component of a successful job search in Canada. A well-written cover letter can demonstrate your interest in the position, showcase your qualifications and skills, and distinguish you from other applicants.

When writing your cover letter, it is essential to customize it for each position, research the company, and carefully proofread it to avoid any errors.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise, relevant, and professional, and highlight your unique skills and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the position.

With these tips in mind, you can create a compelling cover letter that will capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out in a competitive job market. Good luck with your job search!

Related Articles

• How To Create ATS Friendly Resume For Canada
• How To Write Work Experience On A Canadian Resume
• Guide To Canadian Resume Format
• How To Tailor Your Canadian Resume To Job Description
• How To Write A Summary Statement For A Canadian Resume

Canadian resume and cover letter: Format, tips, and templates

For many newcomers, finding employment quickly after moving to Canada is a high-priority action item. Whether you’re contemplating a career switch or looking to get back in your field of work, the first step is usually the same – to have a resume and a cover letter that you can share with potential employers or networking contacts.    

In this article, we will explore the Canadian-style resume in detail, highlight some key differences between a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV), and help you identify which resume format might be best suited to your career goal. We will also go over some useful tips to craft an ATS-friendly resume to ensure you stand out from the competition and get noticed by employers, hiring managers, and recruiters.

In this article:

• What is the difference between a resume and a CV?

Understanding the types of resume formats used in Canada

Tips for writing a canadian-style resume, what is the difference between a resume and a curriculum vitae (cv).

Often, there are two ways job seekers can showcase their professional experience to an employer: by using a resume or a CV. In Canada, employers prefer a resume. A CV is mainly used only for academic applications such as academic jobs, grants, research fellowships, etc. 

To provide more clarity, here are some key differences between a resume and a CV:

Many countries use a CV instead of a resume, and some have a combination of both. Some regions use both terms interchangeably: for instance, in most European countries as well as New Zealand, the term CV is used to describe an equivalent of a Canadian resume. In Australia and South Africa, “curriculum vitae” and “resume” are synonyms that can be used interchangeably. In South Asia, the terms CV and resume are used interchangeably and refer to an equivalent of a traditional CV.  

In some parts of the world, it’s common to include personal information such as marital status, nationality, personal interests, hobbies, date of birth, address, and a photograph on a CV. In Canada, however, you shouldn’t include these details on your resume as it is not required under the employment law, and it is also not a part of the resume format.

As a job seeker in Canada, there are three types of resume formats you should be familiar with. Each of these formats includes the same basic information in a different layout. 

1. Reverse chronological resume

This type of resume outlines your professional experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.

When to use a reverse chronological resume?

If you’re an experienced professional with at least some experience in the workforce, have no major employment gaps , and intend to continue working in the same field.

Tip: The reverse chronological resume is the most popular format in the Canadian job market. Most employers and recruiters are used to and prefer a resume in this format.

2. Functional resume

The functional resume focuses on your overall skills and qualifications instead of specific professional experiences. The employment history is still included, but it is usually listed after skills and education. 

When to use a functional resume?

If you’re looking to switch roles and/or industries and start your career in a new field. It may also be ideal for recent college graduates.  

3. Combination or hybrid resume

A combination resume is a mix of the reverse-chronological layout and the functional layout and is ideal for showcasing transferable skills along with professional experience. In this format, work experience is usually outlined in a reverse chronological format, and the skills section includes a summary of qualifications and technical skills (or core competencies). 

When to use a combination or hybrid resume?

It is commonly used by a variety of job seekers ranging from experienced workers to recent graduates to those with limited experience, multiple short-term work stints, or those having significant work gaps. 

Need more guidance on how to write a Canadian-style resume? For a stepwise approach, check out: How to write a resume for the Canadian job market 10 resume mistakes to avoid when applying for jobs in Canada

Download the free Resume and cover letter templates to craft your Canadian resume

Mastering the art of writing a flawless and impactful Canadian-style resume takes practice and patience. Here are a few tips to help you improve your resume-writing skills. 

1. Adapt your resume to each job listing and keep it relevant

Having a generic resume and sharing it with multiple employers for a variety of positions/roles may not yield the best result for you. It is essential to customize your resume to each position that you’re applying for. Tailor your work experience, skills, and any additional information to the role. Include keywords from the job posting and always start your sentence with relevant action verbs like spearheaded, achieved, managed, trained, etc. Craft a compelling summary for your resume. Avoid including very detailed information for each position you have held; you can share relevant details in the interview instead. 

Job interview resources:  How to prepare for a job interview 10 common job interview questions and how to answer them

2. Optimize for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) but write for humans

Many companies use an ATS to pre-screen resumes and then involve recruiters and hiring managers later in the process. You need to keep both in mind when writing your resume. 

What is an ATS?

An ATS is a software that scans resumes to determine if it is a good match for a specific job listing. Parameters such as work experience, skills, and education are usually considered during the ATS screening process. Resumes that match the pre-defined criteria are forwarded to hiring managers or recruiters, while human eyes never see those rejected by the system. Therefore, even though you may be qualified for the position, if your resume isn’t optimized for an ATS, it may end up being rejected. An ATS is widely used by organizations, recruiters, and job placement agencies in Canada. 

How to optimize a resume for ATS

• Use standard formatting and don’t include images, designs, charts, and tables. 
• Use correct headers and include keywords that match the job description and desired core competencies and skills.
• Send your resume as a Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) document. Most ATS systems tend to process Word files better than PDF. 
• Spell out abbreviations at least once on your resume. 
• Include experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the position.
• Avoid long paragraphs and font size less than size 10. 
• Convert technical terms, grades, and scores to their Canadian equivalents. 

3. Check spelling, grammar, punctuation, and proofread your resume

It’s always a good idea to proofread your resume and check grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence formation, especially if English isn’t your first language or mother tongue. There are many free tools that can help you with proofreading: Grammarly as well as the in-built grammar and spelling tool in Microsoft Word, are good starting points. You can also ask a native English speaker to review your resume for language fluency.  

To help you finesse your English language skills and get more tips and advice from an experienced teacher, Karen Thomson, read How to improve your English and adapt to Canadian culture .

4. Quantify your accomplishments

Many job seekers make the mistake of outlining roles and responsibilities instead of achievements. Recruiters and hiring managers prefer seeing quantified accomplishments on resumes. The ‘CAR’ approach is a good way to help you structure individual sentences: 

C = what was the Challenge , A = what Action did you take, and R = what was the Result .

Some examples to consider:

• “Reached eBay Power Seller status within one year by auctioning over 400 items per month, an exceptional accomplishment reached by only 4 per cent of the 29 million eBay sellers at that time.” 
• “Designed and built statistical analysis models on large data sets (e.g. Aster, Teradata) that helped increase online sales (up to 15 per cent per product) and lowered cart-abandonment rate by 23 per cent.” 

5. Include a cover letter

A cover letter is a formal one-page document that accompanies a resume. It is not a rephrased or concise version of your resume, but it is mainly supposed to talk about how you fit the role you’re applying for and why the organization should hire you. The cover letter is also a good way to justify any gaps in your resume or provide any additional info that your resume can’t.

Note that a cover letter doesn’t have to be a separate document but can also be included in the body of an email when applying for a job. Adding a custom, well-written cover letter to your resume can make you stand out from the crowd, thus improving your chances of being approached for an interview. 

Tips for writing an impressive Canadian-style cover letter

• Limit the length to one page.
• Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application.
• Proofread your cover letter; check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling, especially since it serves as a reflection of your communication skills.
• Use a standard font size (10 or 12 points, in a font style such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri). Avoid using special effects (bold/underline/italics, different fonts, and colour).
• Weave in information you know about the company, their recent projects, or organizational culture and values.

Looking for more guidance on cover letters? Read How to write an effective cover letter for advice and insights from recruiters.

6. Show off your skills with unpaid or local volunteer work

This is a good way for newcomers to show Canadian experience on their resume. If your volunteer work requires you to use skills that may also be valued in the position that you are applying for, adding the volunteer experience to your resume may work to your advantage.

Tip: Volunteering can help you build your network and earn Canadian experience. To discover the importance of volunteering in Canada, and learn how to find volunteering opportunities, read The benefits of volunteering as a newcomer in Canada .

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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A Canadian cover letter is a short document written in response to a specific job prospect and addressed directly to the hiring manager or individual in charge of hiring for the position. It should add to the information contained in your resume and resent you to the employer as a candidate.

Cover letters are essential in the hiring process as they provide candidates with the opportunity to introduce themselves, demonstrate their qualifications, and show enthusiasm for a specific role and company.

They serve as a personalized communication tool, allowing candidates to make a positive first impression, tailor their message to the job, and address potential concerns or unique situations.

A well-written cover letter enhances a candidate’s chances of standing out and securing an interview in Canada .

The following are general guidelines only. You must tailor your cover letter to suit your own experiences, and to suit the specific position you are applying for.

Before You Begin

Once you find a specific job posting that you want to apply for, you can begin to work on your application cover letter. Following these steps before you begin will help you write the best cover letter possible.

1. Do Your Research

Before you begin to write your cover letter, learn everything that you can about the company or organization you are applying to. Check out their website and social media pages, research their top competitors, and read recent industry news articles. Learn the name(s) of the individual(s) who will be in charge of hiring for the position you want, as well as the head(s) of the company.

Also, keep in mind the job description and requirements for the role. it allows you to create a cover letter that showcases your qualifications, aligns with the company’s needs, and demonstrates your genuine interest in the position. This, in turn, increases your chances of being noticed and considered for the role.

Doing this research will help you decide what you should include. Do your research for every cover letter you write. It may take some time, but you have a much better chance of being granted an interview if you have tailored your cover letter to the individual who will be reading it.

2. Check for Instructions

Some employers include instructions in their job postings. They might ask you to include specific information or answer certain questions, in your cover letter. Check whether the employer has left any specific instructions for your cover letter. If they have, follow them carefully.

3. Save time by using a Master Template:

Creating a separate cover letter for every job application can be exhausting. Instead, develop a comprehensive cover letter template that highlights your key qualifications, skills, and experiences.

Keep a library of snippets or bullet points highlighting your achievements, skills, and relevant experiences. You can easily insert these into your cover letter as needed. This template can serve as a foundation for various job applications, making the process more efficient.

Formatting Guidelines

There is a standard cover letter format that most Canadian employers will expect you to follow. However, depending on your industry and the specific job posting you are responding to, you may have to change the formatting of your cover letter.

1. Length  Your cover letter should be no more than one page in total.

2. Font  Your font should be consistent throughout your cover letter, and you should choose a professional-looking font. Your font size should be big enough that it is easy to read when your cover letter is printed.

3. Spacing  Your cover letter should be appropriately spaced. The main body should be single-spaced, with sufficient space left between each new paragraph and section.

What to Include

There are seven sections in a cover letter.

1. Your Information  Your name and contact information should be at the top of your cover letter. Include your:

• First and last name
• Current residential address
• Phone number
• Email address

2. Date  Below your information, write the date that you are sending your cover letter.

3. Employer Information  Below the date, include the contact information of the individual, department, or company you are addressing in the cover letter. If you know the name of the individual, include their:

• Position title
• Company or organization name
• Commercial address of the company or organization

If you do not know the name of the individual, include:

• Department in charge of hiring decisions (if known)
• Commercial address of company or organization

4. Greeting  Use a formal greeting to open your letter. If you know the name of the individual making hiring decisions, address them directly with their prefix and full name. If you don’t know the name of the individual, use a formal, generic greeting like ‘To whom it may concern,’.

5. Main Text:  There are three parts to the main text of your cover letter: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction  In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should introduce yourself as a candidate . Include your first name and the position you are applying for. You can also include your post-relevant qualification and how you found the job posting. If you have a contact at the company who referred you to the job, you may want to mention him or her by name and department. Your introduction should be no more than two to three sentences.

Body  In the next couple of paragraphs, you want to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the job position. Tell them why they should invest in you. If you’re not sure what to include, try to answer these questions:

• What projects have you worked on that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
• What responsibilities have you held that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
• What do you intend to do if you are hired? What benefit does the employer get if he or she hires you instead of someone else?

The body of your cover letter should be one or two paragraphs.

Conclusion  The conclusion is the final paragraph in the main text of your cover letter. It is your opportunity to tell the employer how you feel about potentially working for the company, thank them for the opportunity to apply, and invite them to respond to your application. It should be no more than three or four sentences.

6. Signature  There are two parts to your cover letter signature: the closing line and your full name.

• Closing Line  Your cover letter must include an appropriate closing line. This is the line right before your name.
• Full Name  Your full name follows the closing line. It is not necessary to print and physically sign your cover letter since more job applications are done electronically.

Final Revision

Carefully review your cover letters to make sure you have not made any mistakes.

1. Proofread

Check your cover letter for any spelling or grammar mistakes. If possible, have someone else proofread it for you, or come back to it after a night’s sleep. Be sure that you have not made any mistakes in:

• Your name and contact information
• The employer’s name and contact information
• The name of the company or organization you are applying to

2. Check Instructions

Go over any instructions for your cover letter given by the employer and make sure you have followed them carefully.

Make sure that you have the correct date on your cover letter. The date should be the day that you send your cover letter to the potential employer.

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Step 7: Prepare and Submit your PR application

When you created your Express Entry profile , you claimed points for your age, education, language scores, etc. On the basis of those claims, you got an Invitation to Apply. Now is the time to provide proofs for all those claims that you made. You will have 60 days from the date you received the ITA to gather all those documents, so you will have to work like an eager beaver. Once you are ready, you will need to upload colour scanned copies of all these documents in your Express Entry online portal.

Before you submit you application

Remember that once you receive the ITA, the ball is now in your court. If you don’t get PR from here, it’s on you, so don’t mess up this opportunity and do everything you can to submit your application on time. 

In order to improve the processing times, IRCC has put the onus on the applicants to submit the complete application with all the necessary documents. While checking your application, if they find a missing or incorrect document, they probably won’t look at the rest of your application and will return it to you. You may even have to start the entire process right from the beginning. Because of this, IRCC is able to spend more time on complete applications instead of wasting time on incomplete applications. You don’t want to be the one whose application gets returned, so be very careful in reading the instructions and triple checking everything.

Documents to submit with your application

This is a big one, so we have broken it down in smaller chunks. Some of these documents are a little more complex (such as police certificate, proof of funds, medical exams, and proof of work experience). They deserve to be discussed in a bit more detail, so you’ll find a separate page dedicated to them.

1. Police Certificates

Read this page for police certificates

2. Proof of funds

Read this page for proof of funds

3. Medical Exam

Read this page for medical exam

4. Proof of Work Experience

Read this page for proof of work experience

5. Proof of education

In this section, you will need to upload all the documents related to your education for which you claimed CRS points. For example, if you have bachelor’s and master’s degrees, then you will need to upload documents to prove that. This is needed for both, the principal applicant and the spouse.

If you were educated in Canada, then provide:

• Copies of your degrees, diplomas and certificates
• Transcripts for these degrees
• Designated Learning Institution (DLI) number of the Canadian Institution where you completed your highest degree

If you were educated outside of Canada, then provide:

• Education Credential Assessment (ECA) reference number
• Scanned copy of your ECA report

You can also include your language results , such as the IELTS test report form, under this section because you would have claimed points for your language skills.

6. Passport copy

You and your dependents in your PR application will need to scan the bio pages of your passports (the pages that have your name, address, etc). Although IRCC doesn’t ask for the rest of the passport, you can scan the pages with a visa or entry and exit stamps. We went a step ahead and we also included a cover letter which mentioned all our international visits including dates of entry and exit. You don’t have to do it but extra information doesn’t hurt.

7. Digital photos

You and your dependents will also need to submit digital photographs that will eventually be printed on your PR cards. The photographs must be recent and should meet IRCC’s specifications listed here .

8. Provincial nomination (if you have one)

If you have received a provincial nomination , then the letter of nomination will be in your Express Entry account, so this is already taken care of. 

9. Written job offer from an employer in Canada (if you have one)

Having a valid job offer gives additional points that helps some applicants get an ITA. If you are one of those, and have claimed points for a job offer, you will need to share the relevant documents at this stage.

10. Certificate of Qualification (if you have one)

If you are applying under the Federal Skilled Trades program, then you can get a Certificate of Qualification for your skills from the regulatory body that governs trades in any province. 

To get such a certificate, the regulatory body must assess your training and skills and decide if you are eligible to write a certification exam. You will likely have to go to the specific province to write your certification exam. 

If you have received your certification and you claimed points for that, you will need to upload the document at this stage.

11. Other documents

Based on your situation, you will also need to upload a few more documents if they are relevant for you. For example:

• Birth certificate – if you are declaring dependent children
• Adoption certificate – if your child is adopted
• Marriage/Divorce/Death certificat e – if you have declared your marital status as married/divorced/widowed
• Common law union form – if you have declared your marital status as common law
• Use of a representative form – if you have hired an immigration consultant
• Proof of relationship to a relative in Canada – if you are declaring that you have a relative in Canada for which you earned points

Letter of Explanation

If there is anything that you want to share with immigration officer handling your file, then you can make a letter of explanation (LoE) and upload it with the rest of your documents. It can be about anything. For example, you couldn’t get your police certificate on time, so you can mention what steps you are taking in your LoE. I wrote an LoE because I had worked in 3 different NOCs and I wanted to clarify that I am selecting 0124 as my primary NOC. Trisha also added an LoE mentioning that her entire name is wrongly written under the first name in her passport. 

When the officer is reviewing your application, it helps him/her understand the reason why one or more of your documents are not in order. There is no format for this letter but try to keep it short and to the point with all the relevant details. 

Submitting your application

Based on your responses in the application, you will receive a personalized checklist to upload your documents. For example, if you declare that you are married, you will see a checklist for related documents but if you declare that you are single, you won’t see a marriage related section in your checklist. You will have to upload documents under all those items that appear on your checklist.

The documents should be in PDF format. You will be able to upload only one document under each section. For example, under proof of education, you can submit only one PDF even if you have multiple degrees. Since you need to share all your degrees and education assessment, etc in this section, you will need to combine all those documents in one PDF. Remember that if you upload individual degrees one by one, the last upload will replace the previous upload. So, don’t make that mistake and combine them into one PDF file. Repeat the same for any other section where you have more than one document.

There is a limit of 4 MB for the file size, so you may need to reduce the file size if you are going above 4 MB per PDF. There are many softwares available online to reduce the file size but try to select the ones that feel more genuine. It is possible that these websites store an online copy of your documents and someone may end up using them for fraud.

Paying your fee

The last step before your application finally reaches IRCC is paying your fee. As of 2021, the fee per adult is $1325, out of which $825 is the processing fee and $500 is the right of permanent residence fee. If you are a couple, expect this figure to get doubled and if you have dependent children, then add $225 per child. 

You will be given an option to pay the entire fee of $1325 right away or you can pay only the $825 processing fee (which is non-refundable once IRCC starts working on your application) and the $500 right of permanent residence fee can be paid later once your application gets successfully processed. We would recommend paying the entire fee, otherwise your application can get delayed by a few days while IRCC waits to receive your $500 fee. In case your application gets rejected and you have paid the full fee, IRCC will refund you the $500 portion so it’s okay to pay the entire fee right in the beginning. 

Depending on your country of origin or citizenship, you may have to undergo a biometric assessment and pay $85 per person.

Acknowledgement of Receipt

After submitting the application, you will receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AoR) in a day or two which means that IRCC has received your application. This does not mean that they have opened and checked your application which will happen later. You did whatever you could and from here, the ball is now in IRCC’s court. Your application processing time starts now.

What if something changes between the ITA and AoR

If anything changes such as your Passport number, or if you get married, or you have a baby in this period, you will need to let IRCC know. If your score goes down because of something and your new score is below the cut off for the draw in which you receive the ITA, then you will need to decline your ITA and wait for the next round. It’s better than getting your application rejected. For example, if you were claiming points for your spouse and now you got divorced after getting the ITA and your new CRS score falls below the cut off for that round, then you should decline the ITA.

What if you submit an incomplete application

If the application is incomplete, for example, a document is missing, the application will be rejected and your fee will be refunded as applicable. If that happens, you will have to start afresh by creating a new Express Entry profile and wait for another draw. You will not be given an option to submit that missing document. 

You could lose many months in this process and you don’t want to be in that situation, especially, if your CRS score was very close to the cut off. The cut off may not drop to that level again and you may get stuck. So triple check your application before you submit. We got each other to check our documents before submitting as a second set of eyes can always spot errors that you normally cannot. Do not take any document lightly because you’ve got only one shot at this. 

Common mistakes

We have heard about a lot of applications getting rejected because of silly mistakes and omissions. You can learn from others’ mistakes so that you don’t repeat them. Learn some of the most common mistakes people make in their application.

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Letter of Explanation for PR applications .. When is it recommended ?

• Thread starter ahmadka
• Start date Sep 22, 2015

Hero Member

So I've been reading posts where people say that you should write some sort of a 'cover letter' to accompany your main PR application. People say that sometimes this letter can mean the difference in getting rejected and being asked to provide additional details. So what do you write in such a letter ? What common stuff to people explain in this letter which is useful to your application ?  

If you are not able to provide adequate documents for something or if part of your application needs explanation. Use LOE  

Star Member

Although optional, I used a LOE to explain anything that could be perceived as a discrepancy within my application. For example, I emphasized that although my highest level of education was obtained through an American university, this was done entirely online, and therefore no FBI PCC accompanies the application. Basically, use this as a chance to explain anything that you think may hinder your application. I would also advise that you use the LOE if there is anything you want the VO to know, which may influence your application. I was a former PR of Canada, but my parents voluntarily relinquished status when I was still a minor. I included this and the fact that I returned to Canada for university, as soon as I was of age, and have since contributed to the Canadian economy and participated in its workforce. More specifically, I am in the non-profit sector and used the LOE to convince the VO that I would use the opportunity to continue contributing to the development of the economy and its people. Therefore, long story short, use the LOE to sell yourself, if you can.  

How long does an LOE need to be, in case you wish to clarify/explain something ? Like, can it just be 4-5 lines, or does it have to be more ?  

chechi_298 said: Although optional, I used a LOE to explain anything that could be perceived as a discrepancy within my application. For example, I emphasized that although my highest level of education was obtained through an American university, this was done entirely online, and therefore no FBI PCC accompanies the application. Basically, use this as a chance to explain anything that you think may hinder your application. I would also advise that you use the LOE if there is anything you want the VO to know, which may influence your application. I was a former PR of Canada, but my parents voluntarily relinquished status when I was still a minor. I included this and the fact that I returned to Canada for university, as soon as I was of age, and have since contributed to the Canadian economy and participated in its workforce. More specifically, I am in the non-profit sector and used the LOE to convince the VO that I would use the opportunity to continue contributing to the development of the economy and its people. Therefore, long story short, use the LOE to sell yourself, if you can. Click to expand...

Champion Member

ahmadka said: How long does an LOE need to be, in case you wish to clarify/explain something ? Like, can it just be 4-5 lines, or does it have to be more ? Click to expand...

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How to get a work reference letter for Express Entry

By Rebecca Major

Updated on April 15, 2024

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Share article, if you’ve received an invitation to apply (ita) through express entry , you have to submit a work reference letter as part of your application for permanent residence ..

In fact, you may be required to submit multiple work reference letters for Express Entry, depending on your employment history. This guide tells you exactly how to prepare your work reference letter for Express Entry, to make sure your application has the highest possible chance of being accepted.

What you'll find on this page

When do you need a work reference letter for express entry.

Express Entry immigration to Canada is a two-step process.

First, candidates must prepare and submit an Express Entry profile. Eligible candidates are accepted into the Express Entry pool of candidates.

• Create your Express Entry profile .

Second, the most competitive candidates in the pool, based on their score under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) , receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in an Express Entry draw . Candidates have 60 days from the date they receive their ITA to submit a complete electronic Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR).

The work reference letter is only required as a part of the final application for permanent residence, so you do not need the letter in order to submit your initial Express Entry profile. However, if you expect to receive an ITA, it is a smart decision to try to get your work reference letter(s) for Express Entry ready ahead of time. This way, you will be able to have it, or them, ready by the end of the 60-day deadline for your eAPR submission.

Pro-tip: For your previous jobs, the date the reference letter was issued simply has to be after your last date of employment, so you can collect these letters far in advance and don’t have to worry about an expiry date.

For which jobs do you need a work reference letter for Express Entry?

As part of your application for permanent residence, your account with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will prompt you to submit supporting documentation for all work experience you claimed during the last 10 years. This will be requested for both the principal applicant and your accompanying spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.

When preparing your application for permanent residence, you should include all requested documents. IRCC is extremely strict about supporting documents for permanent residence applications. Even a single missing document often results in an application being rejected as incomplete.

That said, there are certain situations in which your application may be approved, even if you cannot submit work experience documents for every job in your employment history. Bear in mind that any document that deviates from IRCC’s requirements will only be accepted at the discretion of the immigration officer assessing your file, so there is a risk of refusal .

What information needs to be included in your Express Entry work reference letter?

When getting your reference letter from your current and/or past employer, make sure they include the necessary information. Missing any of the required information means that your letter could be thrown out and could result in your application being rejected.

Information that must be included:

• Dates when you were employed;
• Number of hours worked per week;
• Name of your position;
• Duties and responsibilities for your position (these must correspond to the the duties and responsibilities listed in the National Occupational Classification code you selected to describe the work experience in your Express Entry profile, however the duties should not match word for word);
• Annual salary plus benefits.

If you worked multiple positions for the same company you may submit a single letter, but it must include all of the above information for each position you held. The immigration officer will want to see the dates you had each position, as well as any changes to the name of your position, your duties, and your salary.

In addition, all work reference letters for Express Entry should be printed on official company letterhead with contact information for the company (address, phone number, email). The letter should include the name, title, and signature of your immediate supervisor or personnel officer at the company.

In-Canada work experience: If you are claiming work experience in Canada, you can also include copies of your T4 tax slips, which will be accepted as supplementary proof of your employment.

Self-employment: It can be challenging to prove self-employment. When in doubt, consult with an immigration expert . You will need to submit documents showing your ownership of your business, as well as evidence of income, and documentation from third-parties showing the products/services you provided and the related payment details.

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What to do if you can’t get a work reference letter for express entry.

There are a few situations in which you may not be able to get a work reference letter for Express Entry. Perhaps a former employer’s business no longer exists, or perhaps there was a change in staffing and you cannot get in touch with anyone capable of verifying your past work experience. The most important things to check when preparing your work experience letters, is that you demonstrate the following:

• Proof you meet your program requirements: Each of the three Express Entry-aligned programs ( Federal Skilled Worker , Federal Skilled Trades , and Canadian Experience Class ) have work experience requirements. For example, FSW requires a minimum of 12 months’ continuous, full-time, skilled work experience obtained within the last 10 years. CEC requires 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. Make sure that you have high-quality reference letters that prove you meet the work experience requirement related to your program.
• Proof you meet your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement: You received your ITA because your CRS score was above the cut-off for a particular Express Entry draw . The immigration officer assessing your file will ensure that you have enough supporting documentation to prove that your CRS score is above the cut-off for the date you received your ITA. Make sure that you have high-quality reference letters that prove you have enough work experience to achieve a CRS score above the cut-off for the draw where you received your ITA.

If you have enough documentation to prove the work experience related to both of these aspects, and you are confident in the quality of this documentation, then your application may still be accepted, but there is no guarantee. If your remaining work experience documents are not perfect, the immigration officer assessing your file may still use their discretion to approve your application.

You should always submit a document when it is requested, so even if you cannot get a work reference letter you should still submit a written statement explaining the situation and upload this statement in the place of the official reference letter.

What if you don’t have enough reference letters to prove the program and CRS requirements?

If you think you could get the required reference letters with more time, then you can always decline your invitation to apply . If you are still eligible, your Express Entry profile will return to the pool and you will be considered for future draws, but there is no guarantee that the CRS score cut-off will remain low enough for you to be invited again.

If you don’t think you can get the required work reference letter for Express Entry, even with more time, then you can try submitting substitution documents to supplement your reference letters or to prove work experience for positions where you cannot get a reference letter. This is quite risky, as it will be entirely up to your immigration officer whether or not to accept your substitute documents.

Examples of substitute documents include:

• Records of employment
• Personal letters from former coworkers
• Media stories about the company that mention your name
• Bank account statements with pay deposits highlighted

If you ever submit substitution documents, you should always include a personal statement explaining the documents you are submitting and the reasons why you were unable to get the proper required documents.

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Public Relations Cover Letter Examples

Hiring managers often read through cover letters to figure out which resumes or CVs they want to read. Building an informative and engaging letter is a necessity if you want to get a job interview. You can use the public relations cover letter example and do and don’t tips to make sure your own document will be truly attention grabbing.

• Do spend time perfecting your opening statement. The example applicant describes herself as a “highly skilled public relations representative,” which should interest employers from the start.
• Don’t get caught up in tangents. Keep your entire letter focused on the skills, accomplishments, and experiences you have that make you a great fit for the public relations job at hand.
• Do try to match your letter to the company’s tone. Take the time to read through portions of the company website to learn about the normal language used so you can incorporate that into your letter.
• Don’t be afraid to add some different formatting to your letter. You may be able to make your document stand out by incorporating a headline or a bulleted list.

Public Relations Advice

PR professionals handle public relations for businesses and organizations. To get hired as a public relations pro, you’ll need media savvy, great writing and speaking skills, and a cover letter that highlights your qualifications. If you need a hand with your letter, check out these cover letter examples. The cover letter examples below are an important resource you can use to improve your public relations cover letter. Click on any of the templates below to get started.

Cover Letter Tips for Public Relations

Those seeking jobs as a Public Relations, and any other location, should know what steps to take to make the searching process simpler. This short guide will help you get started.

Understand that the search will likely be a long one. That is just how the job market is right now. Because employers are looking for someone with a good attitude, you cannot afford to become pessimistic or discouraged if your job hunt drags on.

Do your research. Before you begin looking for work, understand what is expected of applicants in this field, what the typical hiring practices are, and what common methods others have used to break into the industry.

Know what other options you have as well. Additionally, there is a chance you will not be able to find the kind of work you are looking for. In this situation, you should also have an understanding of related work in other fields.

Always follow up on applications and interviews. Besides making you stand out from the crowd, it will ensure you are still a consideration for the job. In fact, many applicants are rejected simply because they are never heard from again.

There are many online resources available to you. Utilizing everything from cover letter or application assessments to databases will make your search more effective.

Public Relations Job Seeking Tips

If you are looking for jobs as a Public Relations, make sure to prioritize your cover letter. It will be one of the most important aspects of your search. This short guide should help you create a strong cover letter.

Be active. Focus on the things you have done, mostly in the accomplishments or experiences sections, instead of lists of facts or job descriptions. Employers want an active worker.

Write your cover letter as specific as possible. You should find ways to focus your cover letter around the specific job you are applying for. In fact, it is good practice to rework your cover letter slightly for each new job you consider.

Find a way to stand out. There will be many cover letters the employer looks at. Yours need to be unique so it will not blend in with the crowd. Think about how you would answer this question: “What unique benefits do I bring to the table. ”

Prioritize your experiences section. This is the most important part of your cover letter, and the section employers are most interested in, so it should be the longest, strongest, and the core of your cover letter.

Keep your cover letter concise. Only those with work histories extending past 10 years should consider having a cover letter longer than one page. Typically, your goal will be to completely fill a single sheet, without bleeding onto a second page.

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Cover Letter Examples Success Stories

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*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

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Letter of Explanation (LoE) Sample

Where to add the letter of explanation (loe), letter of explanation (loe) sample.

• {Problem statement and Explanation 1}
• {Problem statement and Explanation 2}
• {Problem statement and Explanation 3}

Does the LoE need to be notarized?

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How to apply

How you apply for an authorization to return to Canada (ARC) depends on whether

• you’re applying for temporary residence or permanent residence
• you need a visa to enter Canada

Get your documents ready

You must include the following documents when you submit your ARC application with or without a temporary or permanent residence application:

• The letter must be typed or written in print using black ink.
• If your departure order became a deportation order because you didn’t leave Canada within the required 30 days, explain why you didn’t leave.
• If you send documents in a language other than English or French, you must include a certified translation.
• proof you paid the processing fee for the ARC (CAN$459.55)

You can pay your fees online (opens in a new tab)   .

Apply for an authorization to return to Canada

Find out how to apply for an ARC if you’re in 1 of the following situations:

• you’re applying for temporary residence
• you’re applying for permanent residence

You’re applying for an ARC and temporary residence

Before you apply, check if you need a visa to travel to Canada .

If you need a visa to travel to Canada

You can apply for an ARC at the same time as you do for temporary residence.

• a complete and validated application form
• the required supporting documents for the temporary residence document ( visitor visa , study permit or work permit ) you’re applying for
• include the letter (in English or French) explaining the reasons you should be allowed to return to Canada
• pay the required fees

You can apply online or mail your application to the nearest visa application centre .

If we determine that you’re eligible for temporary residence, we will then process your ARC application.

If you need an electronic travel authorization to travel to Canada

Follow the steps below.

Apply online for

• an electronic travel authorization (eTA)  
• a study permit or
• a work permit

Once we confirm that you’re eligible for temporary residence, we’ll ask you to a submit the required documents for your ARC application by mail to the nearest visa office .

If you’re visa and eTA-exempt

If you’re visa and eTA-exempt, contact the nearest visa office before coming to Canada.

You’re applying for an ARC and permanent residence

You can apply for an ARC at the same time as you do for permanent residence . You must include the required documents for the ARC application in your application for permanent residence.

After you apply for an ARC

We’ll notify you in writing if

• you must go to an interview
• we need other documents
• we made a final decision on your case

We’ll return any incomplete or illegible applications without processing them.

There’s no guarantee we’ll issue you an ARC.

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