Launched in 2015, the Express Entry system is designed to select candidates for immigration based on their skills, work experience, education, language ability, and other factors that contribute to economic success in Canada.

It manages applications for three main federal economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also use Express Entry to select candidates.

How Does It Work?

Here's a simplified step-by-step breakdown:

1. Determine Eligibility

• You must qualify under one of the Express Entry programs (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC).
• Use the official eligibility tool to check.

2. Create an Express Entry Profile

• Submit your details online, including:
• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP for English, TEF for French)
• Proof of funds (if required)
• Job offer (optional but increases your score)

3. Receive a CRS Score

• Your profile is ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
• CRS score is out of 1200 points, based on factors like:
• Core human capital (age, education, language)
• Spouse factors (if applicable)
• Skills transferability
• Additional points (e.g., job offer, provincial nomination, Canadian education)

4. Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• The government holds regular draws (typically every 2–4 weeks).
• Candidates with scores above the cutoff are issued an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.

5. Submit PR Application

• Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application.
• Include all required documents (police checks, medical exams, proof of funds, etc.).

6. Application Processing

• Most applications are processed within 6 months.
• If approved, you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can move to Canada.

Benefits of Express Entry

• Fast processing times
• Transparent, points-based selection
• Can include spouse and dependent children
• Pathway to Canadian citizenship