What is a Points-Based System? A Points-Based System (PBS) is a scoring system. It is used by immigration authorities to (partly or wholly) determine a noncitizen's eligibility to immigrate. A Point-Based System calculates whether that noncitizen can score above a threshold number of points.

These points are determined by the immigration authority of the relevant country. It might include factors like education level, wealth, connection with the land, language fluency, existing job offer etc. Further, sometimes the Points-Based Systems are also called merit-based immigration systems. 

What category of immigrants has to pass by the point system?

The Skilled Worker Class of immigrants has to pass the system. To qualify for the Skilled Worker Class, immigrants should have at least 67 points out of a possible 100. Immigrants in Business Class must have at least 35 points.

Why was the points system made?

This system distributed the immigration opportunity to more people in general regardless of their nationality, promoting merit. It lowers the immigration rate, and immigrants who make it through the process are highly skilled. This system has made hiring and selecting the most efficient immigrants easier.

In comparison, its downside is that it may deter potential immigrants. It is due to the reason that it may appear to be a very complex and uncertain process. They must meet specific requirements for which they will score points. Visas are then awarded to those who gain enough points. It requires a highly professional staff and excellent data systems, which may not be the case for many people. Hence, it snatches the opportunity to immigrate.

The threshold number of points among countries 

The threshold number of points varies among countries. Some countries may also have additional criteria that points-based immigrants need to satisfy. This criterion includes a clear criminal record or no involvement with terrorist organizations. 

Points-Based Systems may not be applicable in some cases of immigration, such as immediate family, refugees, etc. 

What is a Point-Based System in Canada?

Now you know what is a Point-Based System but what is a Point-Based System in Canada? The Points-Based immigration system in Canada is recognized as one of the factors in the shift in Canada's immigrant distribution. It is from 85 per cent European to 15 per cent European, which has levelled the immigration playing field. For entering Canada, the required minimum points are 67. But note that the number of points varies by country.

What country has a point system?

Canada first introduced a Points-Based system of immigration in 1967. Some countries that use points-based immigration systems are the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 

Final words

Initially, the reason for introducing PBS was to oppose race-based immigration systems. But most countries do not use the PBS method to select work migrants. Instead, they rely on 'employer-driven' work-visa systems.