Those with professional abilities that are highly desirable or transferable apply as skilled workers. They are judged against a points system, based on education, experience and language.

POINTS TEST:

Skilled workers are part of the class of independent immigrants which includes entrepreneurs, investors and the self-employed.

Skilled workers are those who have professional or technical abilities that are highly sought after or transferable. Sometimes, the applicant already has a job offer from a Canadian company.

To be accepted, a skilled worked must pass the points system in addition to having had at least one year of full-time, paid work experience listed in the "O," "A," and "B" sections of the National Occupation Classification list (external link).

Points are awarded based on the kind of degree you have, your years of experience and your proficiency in either or both official languages. Citizenship and Immigration is looking for background, training, experience and transferable skills that will make you more likely to adapt and succeed.

To take the points test, click here (external link). You would have to get a mark of 75 or higher to qualify to come to Canada. If you pass, you can go on to the next level. If you fail, take the test over again or proceed ahead if you like.

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Skilled workers account for about half of all immigrants: 137,085 out of 250,346 in 2001.

The top five source countries for skilled workers are China, Pakistan, India, Taiwan, and Iran.

More than half of immigrants, age 25 to 64, have a post-secondary degree.

Male immigrants experience an unemployment rate of 15 to 21 per cent in the first five years after arrival. For women, it's 20 to 26 per cent.

SOURCES: 1996 Census Facts and Figures 2001: Immigration Overview

Changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in June 2002, allocated more points to people with a trade certificate or a second degree. More points have also been awarded for one to two years of work experience in order to attract younger workers who may have higher levels of education but not a lot of job experience.

Profile of Immigration and Refugee Lawyer Ed Corrigan