Express Entry: Your Chance to Canada

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Express Entry, Canada’s innovative immigration system for skilled workers. In this article, we will delve into the details of Express Entry, exploring its requirements, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Whether you’re considering immigrating to Canada or seeking a better understanding of this system, we aim to provide you with valuable insights and guidance.

So let’s embark on a journey to discover the possibilities offered by Express Entry and how it can pave the way for your Canadian dream.

Overview of Express Entry

Express Entry is an immigration system introduced by the Government of Canada in January 2015. It is a highly efficient and streamlined process designed to facilitate the selection and admission of skilled foreign workers who wish to immigrate to Canada permanently.

The primary objective of Express Entry is to address labor market needs in Canada by attracting highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the country’s economy. It is an online system that manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is for individuals with skilled work experience in occupations classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program is designed for skilled tradespersons who have practical experience in specific occupations listed in the NOC system.
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada, either through temporary work permits or as international students.

Through Express Entry, candidates are assessed based on various factors such as their age, education, language proficiency (English or French), work experience, and adaptability. The system assigns each candidate a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines their ranking in the Express Entry pool.

To be considered for Express Entry, candidates must meet the minimum eligibility requirements for at least one of the three economic immigration programs. Additionally, they need to create an online Express Entry profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in becoming a permanent resident of Canada.

The Canadian government regularly conducts draws from the Express Entry pool and issues Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with the highest CRS scores. Once an ITA is received, candidates can proceed with submitting a complete application for permanent residency within a specified timeframe.

Express Entry has revolutionized Canada’s immigration system, making it faster and more efficient. It allows eligible individuals to pursue their dream of living and working in Canada, contributing to its diverse and thriving society.

Requirements for Express Entry

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet certain requirements established by the Government of Canada. These requirements apply to all three federal economic immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system. Let’s take a look at the key criteria:

1. Work Experience: Candidates must have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation within the last ten years. The work experience must be classified under skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades) of the NOC system.
2. Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by taking a designated language test. The accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for English and the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) for French. The results of the test determine the candidate’s language score, which is an essential factor in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
3. Education: Candidates must have a completed post-secondary educational credential, such as a degree, diploma, or certificate from a recognized Canadian institution or an equivalent foreign educational credential. The educational qualification must be assessed by an approved organization to determine its Canadian equivalency.
4. Proof of Funds: Candidates need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members after immigrating to Canada. The exact amount required depends on the size of the family accompanying the candidate.
5. Admissibility: All candidates must meet the general admissibility requirements to enter Canada, including having a clean criminal record and being in good health. Certain medical and security checks may be required during the application process.

It’s important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Express Entry is a competitive system where candidates are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS score takes into account various factors such as age, language proficiency, education, work experience, and additional adaptability factors.

Candidates should strive to maximize their CRS score by improving their language skills, acquiring additional education or training, and gaining more work experience. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also provide an additional pathway for candidates to increase their CRS score and improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

READ ALSO: Provincial Nominee Programs: Explore this Option

Eligibility for Express Entry

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet specific criteria outlined by the Government of Canada. These eligibility requirements apply to all three federal economic immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system. Let’s explore the key factors determining eligibility:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) Eligibility: To be eligible under the FSWP, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• • Have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation classified under NOC skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades).
  • Obtain a minimum of 67 points on the Federal Skilled Worker Points Grid, which assesses factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency by meeting the minimum language requirements in English or French.

1. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) Eligibility: To be eligible under the FSTP, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• • Have at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled trade within the last five years, as listed in the NOC system.
  • Possess a valid job offer of at least one year from up to two employers in Canada or a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian province or territory.
  • Meet the language proficiency requirements in English or French.

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Eligibility: To be eligible under the CEC, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• • Have at least one year of full-time work experience (or an equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled occupation classified under NOC skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades) within the last three years.
  • Have gained this work experience in Canada with valid temporary resident status, such as a work permit or as an international student.
  • Meet the language proficiency requirements in English or French.

Additionally, all candidates must:

• Have a valid passport or travel document.
• Demonstrate the financial capacity to support themselves and their accompanying family members during their stay in Canada.
• Be admissible to Canada, which involves meeting health and security requirements.

It’s important to note that meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Candidates must also create an online Express Entry profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to enter the Express Entry pool. The ranking within the pool is determined by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and candidates with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency during regular draws conducted by the Canadian government.

How to Apply for Express Entry

Applying for Express Entry involves several steps, from creating an online profile to submitting a complete application for permanent residency. Let’s explore the process step by step:

1. Eligibility Check: Before applying, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for at least one of the three federal economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
2. Language Proficiency Test: Take a designated language test to demonstrate your proficiency in English or French. The accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for English and the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) for French. Remember to achieve the minimum language proficiency scores required for your selected program.
3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you completed your education outside of Canada, obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization. The ECA will assess your foreign educational credentials and provide an equivalent Canadian education level.
4. Create an Express Entry Profile: Create an online profile on the Government of Canada’s official website. Provide accurate and up-to-date information about your personal details, education, language proficiency, work experience, and other relevant factors. Once you complete the profile, you will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
5. Register with Job Bank (Optional): While not mandatory, it’s beneficial to register with the Job Bank of Canada, which connects job seekers with potential employers in Canada. This can enhance your chances of finding employment opportunities during your Express Entry process.
6. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Candidates with high CRS scores will be selected from the Express Entry pool during regular draws conducted by the Canadian government. If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you will have a limited timeframe to submit a complete application for permanent residency.
7. Complete the Application for Permanent Residency: Once you receive an ITA, gather all the required documents, including identity documents, proof of work experience, educational credentials, language test results, and other supporting documents. Fill out the application forms accurately and ensure that all information provided is correct.
8. Pay the Application Fees: Pay the necessary application fees, including the processing fee, right of permanent residence fee (if applicable), and biometrics fee. Keep in mind that these fees are subject to change, so it’s important to refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.
9. Submit the Application: After completing the application and paying the fees, submit your application for permanent residency through the online portal. Ensure that all required documents are included, and the application is submitted within the specified timeframe.
10. Medical and Security Checks: After submitting your application, you may be required to undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates to meet the admissibility requirements. Follow the instructions provided by the authorities and complete these checks promptly.
11. Await the Decision: The Canadian immigration authorities will review your application, including all supporting documents, and make a decision on your permanent residency application. This process may take several months, and you will be notified of the decision in due course.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has equipped you with the knowledge needed to navigate the Express Entry system successfully. Remember, staying informed, preparing diligently, and seeking professional advice when necessary are crucial steps in maximizing your chances of securing an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada.