Overview

The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for managing applications for permanent residency under the Economic Immigration Programs. It is a points-based system designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to Canada’s economy.

Key Features

• Visa Type: Permanent Residence (PR)
• Eligibility: Skilled workers, tradespeople, and individuals with Canadian work or education experience.
• Processing Time: Typically 6 months or less after submitting the complete application.
• Programs Managed:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (aligned with Express Entry)

Eligibility Criteria

1. Language Proficiency:
   • English or French proficiency (minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 for FSWP).
   • Valid test results from IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF.
2. Education:
   • Foreign education must be evaluated by an approved Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
3. Work Experience:
   • Minimum 1 year of continuous full-time skilled work experience in the last 10 years.
4. Age:
   • No age limit, but applicants aged 18-35 receive the highest points.
5. Settlement Funds:
   • Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family unless you have a valid job offer.
6. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score:
   • Candidates must score high enough in the CRS, which evaluates factors like age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Application Process

1. Step 1: Eligibility Check
   • Determine eligibility using the Express Entry online tool or program criteria.
2. Step 2: Create an Online Profile
   • Submit an Express Entry Profile with details about education, work experience, language skills, and more.
3. Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
   • If you meet the CRS cut-off in the Express Entry draw, you will receive an ITA for permanent residence.
4. Step 4: Submit PR Application
   • After receiving the ITA, submit your complete PR application with required documents within 60 days.
5. Step 5: Medical and Background Checks
   • Complete medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
6. Step 6: Decision and Confirmation of PR
   • If approved, receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

Processing Time

• Most Express Entry applications are processed within 6 months from the date of submission.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Factors

1. Core Human Capital Factors:
   • Age, education, work experience, language ability.
2. Skill Transferability Factors:
   • Combination of skills, education, and experience.
3. Additional Points:
   • Canadian education, valid job offer, provincial nomination, or French language proficiency.

Advantages of Express Entry

1. Fast Processing:
   • One of the fastest immigration pathways with processing times of 6 months or less.
2. Transparent System:
   • CRS scoring system ensures fairness and transparency.
3. Path to Citizenship:
   • Permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
4. Family Inclusion:
   • Spouse and dependent children can be included in the application.
5. Economic Opportunities:
   • PR holders can work, study, or start a business anywhere in Canada.
6. Provincial Nomination:
   • Increases CRS score by 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.

Settlement Funds (2024)