Express Entry

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system that IRCC uses to manage immigration applications from skilled workers. It is the fastest way to attract skilled workers to immigrate to Canada.

There are 3 immigration programs managed through Express Entry:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWC) — for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC) — for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) — for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience

If the applicant is eligible for one of the above programs, they can also apply through Express Entry for the Provincial Nominee Program. If nominated, they'll get extra points so they can be invited to apply quickly.

Candidates are ranked in the Express Entry pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS is a points-based system that assesses and scores profiles. To be invited, the applicant needs a score above the minimum points score for their round of invitations.

Language Proficiency

Perhaps the first question that comes to your mind is "what is the first step to start the immigration process to Canada?" There are several ways to immigrate to Canada, and depending on the applicant's eligibility, one or more methods can be chosen. But the most important step is to have knowledge of English or French or both. Except for family sponsorship or asylum programs, a language certificate is the first requirement for immigration programs.

You should plan purposefully to improve your language ability and obtain one of these language certificates.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

This category is for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience.

Applicants must meet the minimum requirements to enter the Express Entry pool:

Having higher education, work experience and language certificate with a higher score, as well as other parameters such as family members in Canada, spouse's education, and Canadian education or work experience will increase CRS points.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program is for skilled workers, NOC TEER 2 and TEER 3, who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade. Applicants must have the minimum requirements:

• Language: Speaking & Listening CLB 5, Reading & Writing CLB 4
• At least 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the 5 years before applying
• A full-time job offer for one year from a Canadian employer OR a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province
• Financial support starting from C$12,500 depending on the number of family members

Eligible skilled trade groups include technical trades, general trades, supervisors in natural resources and agriculture, processing and manufacturing supervisors, cooks, butchers, bakers, and chefs.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWC)

This program is for skilled workers (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 & 3) with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.

• Language: CLB 7 in all four abilities (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing)
• At least one year of full-time or part-time work experience in a professional or managerial job within ten years
• A degree at least equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma
• Financial support starting from C$12,500 depending on family size
• Score at least 67 out of 100 on the initial FSWC points grid (based on age, education, work experience, language, and adaptability)

Selection Method in the Express Entry Pool

1. Check Eligibility

   Verify the applicant meets minimum requirements for one of the three programs.

2. Prepare Documents

   Valid passport, language certificate, education evaluation (for FSWC), provincial nomination (if applicable), and job offer (if available).

3. Register Profile

   Create and submit an Express Entry profile in the online system.

4. Enter the CRS Pool

   Receive a CRS score and be ranked in the Express Entry pool.

5. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)

   If your score is above the cutoff in a draw round, you receive an ITA for permanent residence.

6. Submit PR Application

   Submit the full application for permanent residence with all supporting documents.

7. Medical & Background Checks

   IRCC reviews medical conditions and criminal records of the applicant and family members.

Application Fees