Express entry for Canada
Express entry is a system that is utilized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process the immigration applications made by skilled workers who wish to obtain Permanent Residents status in Canada.
There are three programs that a conducted under the Express Entry pathway.
Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry
| Eligibility criteria | Canadian Experience Class | Federal Skilled Worker Program | Federal Skilled Trades Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language skills |
English or French skill
|
English or French skills
|
English or French skills
|
| Type/Level of work experience |
Canadian work experience in an occupation listed in 1 or more of these NOC TEER Categories:
|
Work experience in an occupation listed in 1 of these NOC TEER Categories:
|
Work experience in an occupation listed in 1 of these NOC TEER Categories:
|
| Amount of work experience |
One year in Canada in the last 3 years (either combination of full-time or part-time work) |
One year continuous within the last 10 years (combination of part-time, full-time, or more than 1 job in your primary occupation) |
Two years within the last 5 years (either combination of full-time or part-time work) |
| Job offer |
Not required. |
Not required. But you can get selection criteria (FSW) points for having a valid job offer. |
Required:
|
| Education |
Not required. |
Secondary education is required. |
Not required. |
FAQs
How does the Express Entry system work?
Express Entry is a points-based system where candidates create an online profile and are ranked based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws.
What are the key immigration programs under Express Entry?
The main programs are the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are also integrated into Express Entry, allowing provinces to nominate candidates based on local needs.
How do I apply for Express Entry?
To apply, create an online profile, providing information about education, work experience, language proficiency, and other details. Candidates are then entered into the Express Entry pool, and those with high CRS scores may receive an ITA, enabling them to submit a full application for permanent residency.
What happens after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)?
After receiving an ITA, candidates have a limited time to submit their Electronic Application for Permanent Residence (EAPR). This involves providing comprehensive documentation to support the information in their Express Entry profile. Once approved, candidates become permanent residents of Canada.
What is the timeline for Express Entry?
The timeline for Express Entry can vary, but generally, candidates can expect the process to take several months. After creating an online profile, candidates enter the Express Entry pool, and periodic draws are conducted. Those with high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Once an ITA is received, candidates have 60 days to submit their complete application, and processing times for final approval can vary.
Who can apply for Express Entry?
Express Entry is open to skilled workers and professionals who wish to immigrate to Canada. The eligibility criteria vary for various stream, however, your age, education, work experience and other relevant factors determine your eligibility. Eligible candidates include those with work experience in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, skilled tradespeople under the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and individuals with Canadian work experience in the Canadian Experience Class. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are integrated into Express Entry, allowing candidates nominated by provinces or territories to participate.