Reference GuideImmigration Glossary
Understanding immigration terminology is key to navigating the process. Here are the most common terms you'll encounter.
IRCCImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada - the government department responsible for immigrationCRSComprehensive Ranking System - points system used to rank Express Entry candidatesITAInvitation to Apply - invitation to submit a PR application through Express EntryLMIALabour Market Impact Assessment - document employer needs to hire foreign workersECAEducational Credential Assessment - evaluation of foreign education for Canadian equivalencyDLIDesignated Learning Institution - schools approved to host international studentsPALProvincial Attestation Letter - provincial confirmation required for study permitsPGWPPost-Graduation Work Permit - open work permit for international graduatesPNPProvincial Nominee Program - provincial immigration programsNOCNational Occupational Classification - system for classifying jobs in CanadaTEERTraining, Education, Experience and Responsibilities - NOC skill level categories (0-5)CLBCanadian Language Benchmarks - standard for measuring language abilityIELTSInternational English Language Testing System - English proficiency testCELPIPCanadian English Language Proficiency Index Program - Canadian English testTEFTest d'évaluation de français - French proficiency testPRPermanent Residence/Resident - status allowing indefinite stay in CanadaCOPRConfirmation of Permanent Residence - document confirming PR statuseTAElectronic Travel Authorization - required for visa-exempt travelers flying to CanadaTRVTemporary Resident Visa - visitor visa stamp in passportBOWPBridging Open Work Permit - work permit while awaiting PR decisionSOWPSpousal Open Work Permit - work permit for spouses of workers/studentsRCICRegulated Canadian Immigration Consultant - licensed immigration professionalCICCCollege of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants - regulatory body for RCICsIRBImmigration and Refugee Board - tribunal handling refugee claims and appealsFSWFederal Skilled Worker - Express Entry program for skilled workers abroadFSTFederal Skilled Trades - Express Entry program for skilled tradespeopleCECCanadian Experience Class - Express Entry program for those with Canadian experiencePGPParents and Grandparents Program - sponsorship program for parents/grandparentsSuper VisaMultiple-entry visa allowing parents/grandparents to stay up to 5 yearsAIPAtlantic Immigration Program - program for settling in Atlantic provincesRNIPRural and Northern Immigration Pilot - program for smaller communities 
