Canada Express Entry is an online immigration system introduced by the Canadian government in 2015 to manage applications for permanent residency from skilled foreign workers. It is not a standalone visa program but rather a pathway that manages applications for three main federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with experience in professional, managerial, or technical occupations.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For individuals with experience in skilled trades such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For candidates who have already gained skilled work experience in Canada.
Express Entry uses a points-based ranking system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and rank candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
How Can I Apply for Canada Express Entry?
Applying for Canada Express Entry involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three programs managed under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Requires at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience, language proficiency (CLB 7 or higher), and sufficient funds to settle in Canada.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Requires at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade, a valid job offer or certificate of qualification in Canada, and language proficiency (CLB 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing).
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Requires at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years and language proficiency (CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs, CLB 5 for NOC B jobs).
You can use the Come to Canada tool on the official IRCC website to assess your eligibility.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents before creating your Express Entry profile:
- Language Test Results: Take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF or TCF for French) to prove your proficiency.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If your education was completed outside Canada, get your credentials assessed by an organization like WES (World Education Services) to confirm their Canadian equivalency.
- Proof of Work Experience: Gather reference letters from previous employers detailing your job title, duties, and duration of employment.
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid.
- Proof of Funds: Show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada (unless you are already working in Canada or have a valid job offer).
Step 3: Create an Express Entry Profile
Once you have all your documents ready, follow these steps:
- Create an Online Profile: Visit the IRCC website and complete the Express Entry profile. Provide details about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other relevant information.
- Enter the Pool of Candidates: After submitting your profile, you’ll be placed in the Express Entry pool with other candidates. You’ll receive a CRS score based on the information you provide.
Step 4: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
IRCC conducts regular draws from the Canada Express Entry pool, inviting candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency. Factors that can boost your CRS score include:
- Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Provincial Nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Strong language proficiency in English and/or French.
- Canadian education or work experience.
If you receive an ITA, you’ll have 60 days to submit your complete application for permanent residency.
Step 5: Submit Your Application for Permanent Residency
After receiving an ITA, prepare and submit the following:
- Completed application forms.
- Supporting documents (language test results, ECA report, proof of funds, etc.).
- Police clearance certificates to prove you have no criminal record.
- Medical examination results to confirm you meet Canada’s health requirements.
Pay the required fees, which typically include:
- Processing fee: CAD $1,365 per adult.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD $515 per adult.
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 per family.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Once your application is submitted, IRCC will process it. The average processing time for Canada Express Entry applications is 6 months or less. During this period, you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.
Step 7: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residency
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a visa (if applicable). Upon arriving in Canada, present these documents to a border services officer to officially become a permanent resident.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Success
- Boost Your CRS Score: Improve your language proficiency, gain more work experience, or pursue higher education to increase your score.
- Apply for Provincial Nomination: Many provinces have PNPs aligned with Express Entry, which can award you an additional 600 CRS points.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check IRCC’s website for changes to policies, draw schedules, and CRS cutoff scores.