Visit Prior to Application?

Express Entry
1

Hello Everyone,
I’m an American software developer about to start my Express Entry application. Does anyone know if having previously visited Canada will weight on my application?

I had a trip planned earlier this year that was cancelled due to Covid-19, but I’m 100% sure I want to move to Canada and want to proceed with my application. I am wondering if this will look bad or otherwise factor negatively on my application. I have my university credits evaluated and my CELPIP test completed.

I am weighing if I should just go ahead and apply now, or wait until spring until I can hopefully visit. I figure it will take that long since America is completely botching the Covid-19 recovery.

Any insight or feedback?

2

Hi,

Visiting Canada as a tourist or canceling a visit to Canada on a visitor visa does not affect your express entry application.Unless you are claiming points for working in Canada, any other type of visit shouldn’t matter.

I would start my application early as its time consuming and the backlog due to Covid has increased the processing time.You can always visit Canada on a tourist visa ( when your application is being processed) or if you don’t have a tourist visa, you can visit after your get a COPR.