5 common mistakes of immigrants and ways to fix them
Knowing these nuances will increase your chances of moving to Canada.
1. Incorrect choice of main profession
Mistake: When filling out the Express Entry profile, choosing a NOC code for a profession without sufficient work experience. Since November 2022, Canada has switched to the new NOC 2021 classification system with TEER (Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) categories 0, 1, 2, and 3. If your main profession has little experience or the NOC code doesn't fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, the risk of rejection is very high.
Solution: When filling out your profile, only list the NOC code for a profession where you have at least one year of full-time work experience (in the last 10 years). Remember that the NOC codes you list won't affect your future job prospects in Canada. As a permanent resident, you can work in any field you choose.
2. Lack of proof that you intend to live outside Quebec
Mistake: If you currently live or work in Quebec and plan to stay there after getting your documents, you should ideally choose a Quebec immigration program. However, living in Quebec doesn't mean you can't apply for federal immigration and move to another part of Canada later. As a permanent resident, you have the right to live and work anywhere in Canada, protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Solution: Provide the visa officer with sufficient evidence that you intend to move outside Quebec after your immigration application is approved, even if you currently work or live there. This can be done in various ways, but it's best to include a statement of your intention to live outside Quebec.
3. Waiting too long to send documents
Mistake: Provincial immigration programs change quickly, including in-demand occupation lists. In 2025, Express Entry underwent significant changes: a new "Education" category with five eligible professions was introduced, the "Transport" category was removed, and the "Healthcare" category was expanded to include social services. Slow document collection and submission could cost you the opportunity to participate in a program.
Solution: Prepare all necessary documents in advance and send them as soon as you submit your application.
4. Employment letters that don't confirm work experience
Mistake: Many people think reference letters are documents describing skills with a former supervisor's signature. While these are great for professional careers, they won't help with Canadian immigration applications.
Solution: Reference letters for Canadian immigration should be on company letterhead with a signature and stamp, containing:
- Official company name and your position
- Employment period
- Salary
- Weekly work hours
- Detailed list of job duties
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Try to provide all documents supporting this information. For example, if the official letter doesn't mention salary, provide pay stubs. If you held multiple positions in one company, ensure each is listed separately with relevant details. The final decision on your employment documentation is at the visa officer's discretion, but the more supporting documents you can provide, the stronger your case will be.
5. Misrepresentation
Mistake: Providing false information to Canadian immigration authorities is a serious offense. It can lead to your application being rejected and you may be barred from applying for Canadian immigration for several years.
Solution: Be completely honest about all details, including your career history, any medical or criminal issues, etc. Not all medical problems prevent immigration to Canada, and the same goes for criminal records. If you're unsure whether to mention something, consult an immigration lawyer or simply state the facts without details and let the visa officer decide.
You can assess your chances of immigrating to Canada here.
