Canada’s Express Entry system is one of the fastest ways for skilled workers to apply for permanent residency (PR). Launched in 2015, it is an online immigration system that selects eligible candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. With regular draws, this system makes sure that the best-suited candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for PR. Here’s everything you need to know about Express Entry and how to apply.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for skilled workers applying for Canadian permanent residency. The system operates under three federal immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW):
The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program is an immigration option for skilled workers living outside of Canada. Unlike other Canadian immigration programs, you don’t need to have a connection to Canada, such as living in the country, having family there, or having Canadian work or education experience.
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However, the FSW program has high eligibility standards, including work experience, education, and language proficiency in English or French. To qualify, you need at least one year of work experience in a specialized field, along with strong qualifications in language and education.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
The CEC Express Entry program is particularly popular among international students and foreign workers. Many international students who graduate and find jobs in Canada use this program to fulfill their immigration goals. The CEC is not an option for foreign nationals who have no prior work experience in Canada, as the program requires Canadian work experience to qualify.
Federal Skilled Trades Program:
To qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), you need at least two years of work experience in a skilled trade from the last five years. In some cases, you might also need to get a trade certificate from a province or territory in Canada.
How to Apply for Express Entry?
Applying for Express Entry is a multi-step process. Let’s break it down:
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1. Check Your Eligibility
Before you start, you must meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW): For foreign skilled workers.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST): For skilled tradespeople.
Eligibility is based on factors like work experience (minimum one year), language proficiency (English/French), and admissibility (medical and criminal background checks).
2. Create an Express Entry Profile
Once eligible, you can create an Express Entry profile. The system will evaluate your details and assign a CRS score based on:
- Age
- Education level
- Work experience
- Language proficiency (English or French)
- Other factors, such as a job offer or provincial nomination
This CRS score determines your rank in the pool. Higher-ranking candidates are more likely to receive an ITA.
Create your Express Entry profile here.
3. Optional: Register on Canada’s Job Bank
While not mandatory anymore, you can increase your chances by registering with Canada’s Job Bank to connect with potential employers if you do not already have a job offer.
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4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Every two weeks, the Canadian government holds Express Entry draws. If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cut-off, you will receive an ITA, allowing you to apply for permanent residency.
5. Submit Your Application
Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for PR. Your application must include:
- Proof of work experience
- Language test results
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam results
6. Decision on Application
The processing time for Express Entry applications is usually around six months. If approved, you will receive confirmation of your PR status and can begin your new life in Canada.
Tips to Increase CRS Score:
These days competition is getting higher. There are some tips to improve your CRS score:
- Improve Language Test Scores: Scoring higher in language tests can significantly increase your CRS points.
- Learn French: French is really in demand in Canada these days and it can help you boost your score.
- Gain More Work Experience: Additional work experience in skilled jobs can boost your score.
- Education: Pursuing higher education or getting your foreign credentials evaluated with an ECA can add valuable points.
- Get a Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer will add extra points to your score.
- Provincial Nomination: If you receive a nomination from a Canadian province, you will get an additional 600 CRS points, which almost guarantees an invitation to apply.
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Important Details to Consider for Successful Application
In order to make sure that your application is successful, pay attention to these critical details:
- Proof of Settlement Funds
If applying under FSW or FST, you must show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family, unless you have a valid job offer.
- Job Offer Requirements
Not all job offers add CRS points. Make sure your job offer meets the required conditions for it to be considered valid under Express Entry.
- Accuracy is Important
Any false information in your Express Entry profile or PR application can lead to a ban from entering Canada.
Costs of Applying for Express Entry:
Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with the Express Entry process:
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): $200+
- Language Test: $300+
- Processing Fee: $950
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $575
- Police Clearance & Medical Reports: Costs vary by country
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How Many CRS Points Do You Need?
There is no fixed score that guarantees an ITA. The CRS cut-off score varies with each Express Entry draw. However, aiming for a score above 450 gives you a good chance of being invited in most draws.
Whether you are a skilled worker from abroad or someone with Canadian work experience, the Express Entry system opens doors to new opportunities in Canada. Keep your profile up to date, explore provincial nomination options, and make sure to provide all necessary documents for a smooth application process.