February 20, 2025

CIP 158: Express Entry Getting it Right - Certificate of qualification points

21 minutes

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry continue the Time’s Up series with an in-depth look at the Certificate of Qualification (COQ) and how it affects Express Entry points. Many applicants mistakenly assume they qualify for the 50 additional CRS points—only to have their applications refused.

Mark and Alicia break down the eligibility criteria for claiming these points, common mistakes applicants make, and the step-by-step process for obtaining a legitimate COQ from a Canadian province or territory. With IRCC’s tightening immigration policies and the elimination of job offer points on the horizon, getting this right has never been more important.

Key Topics Discussed

Understanding the Certificate of Qualification

What is a Certificate of Qualification, and who needs one?

The critical difference between a provincial professional license and a trade certificate of qualification.

Why doctors, nurses, and other regulated professionals do NOT qualify for these points.

Express Entry Eligibility: Do You Really Get Those 50 Points?

The specific trades that qualify for COQ points under Express Entry.

Language requirements: Why a CLB 7 or higher is essential for claiming the full 50 points.

How miscalculating your CRS score can lead to refusals and lost opportunities.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Clicking “Yes” to having a COQ when you don’t—why this leads to refusals.

Assuming a professional certification (e.g., nursing, accounting, law) qualifies for trade points.

Failing to obtain the COQ before submitting an Express Entry profile.

How to Properly Obtain a Certificate of Qualification

The step-by-step process of getting a COQ in British Columbia as a cook (example case study).

Differences in provincial regulations—where and how to apply.

The role of Red Seal certification in cross-provincial trade recognition.

The Future of Express Entry: What’s Changing?

The upcoming removal of job offer points and its impact on Express Entry.

Why trade workers may have an advantage in future Express Entry draws.

The shift towards category-based Express Entry draws—what trade workers need to know.

Key Takeaways

Not all certifications count as a Certificate of Qualification—only specific skilled trades qualify for points.

You must obtain the COQ before claiming points—falsely claiming it can lead to a refused application.

Language scores matter! If your CLB is below 7, you won’t get the full 50 points.

With job offer points disappearing, trade workers may benefit from Express Entry changes—but only if they have a proper COQ.

Consult an immigration professional before applying—small errors can cost you your chance at PR.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:

"There’s nothing worse than filing your Express Entry application, expecting 50 points for a Certificate of Qualification, and then getting a refusal because you never actually qualified."

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"Professions and skilled trades are NOT the same thing. If you’re a doctor or a nurse, you do NOT qualify for these 50 points—it’s as simple as that."

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

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Disclaimer

This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.

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By Mark Holthe

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