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Converting a non-immigration WES ECA report to an immigration (IMM) report

Canada • Express Entry • immigration 0 views
By VisaBuddies Communityvia community — compiled from public visa forums

Documents Needed

  • Existing WES ECA report (IV reference)

    The original report issued for a non-immigration purpose; keep its reference number handy.

  • Upgraded WES ECA report (IMM reference)

    The immigration-purpose version needed for Express Entry, identified by an 'IMM' prefix on the reference number.

Step-by-Step

If you got a World Education Services (WES) Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) years ago without selecting 'immigration purpose,' you'll notice the reference number starts with 'IV' rather than 'IMM' — and Express Entry requires the IMM version.

What group members advised:
  1. Contact WES and ask them to upgrade the existing report to an immigration-purpose report, rather than starting a brand-new application. You likely won't need to resubmit your transcripts, since WES already has them on file.

  2. Clearly explain your situation in your message to WES — mention that you need an immigration-purpose report and include the reference number of your existing report so they can locate and convert it.


The general idea: an 'upgrade' request referencing your old IV report number is the intended path, rather than treating it as a fresh ECA application from scratch.

Dos, Don'ts & Tips

  • Do: Ask WES specifically for an 'upgrade' to an immigration-purpose (IMM) report, referencing your existing IV report number.
  • Tip: You likely won't need to resend transcripts, since WES retains them from your original assessment.

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