Express Entry

Canada’s Express Entry system is a points-based immigration framework designed to attract skilled workers from around the globe. Launched in January 2015, this system streamlines the process for acquiring permanent residency, aiming to fulfill Canada’s labor market needs and economic growth targets. Managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Express Entry handles applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

How Express Entry Works

Express Entry operates in two main stages:

1. Creating an Express Entry Profile:

   • Candidates must create an online profile, which includes information about their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal details.
   • Based on this information, applicants are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

2. Invitation to Apply (ITA):

   • Periodically, IRCC conducts draws from the pool of candidates, issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to those with the highest CRS scores.
   • Invited candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Explained

The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score a candidate’s profile. Points are awarded based on factors such as:

• Core Human Capital Factors: Age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.
• Skill Transferability Factors: Combination of education, foreign work experience, and certification in Canada.
• Additional Points: Points for a valid job offer, a provincial nomination, Canadian education, French language proficiency, and having a sibling in Canada who is a citizen or permanent resident.

Eligibility for Express Entry

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet the requirements of one of the three federal immigration programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

   • Minimum requirements include skilled work experience, language ability, and education.
   • Applicants must score at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSWP point grid.

2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):

   • Applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
   • A valid job offer or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian authority is required.

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC):

   • Candidates need at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
   • Applicants must meet the language requirements for their job type.

Benefits of the Express Entry System

• Efficiency: The system aims to process complete applications in six months or less.
• Transparency: The CRS system ensures a transparent and merit-based selection process.
• Flexibility: Regular draws allow candidates to improve their scores and re-enter the pool.
• Opportunities for Skilled Workers: The system is designed to attract highly skilled immigrants, meeting Canada’s economic and labor market needs.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Express Entry

Many provinces and territories in Canada have their own immigration programs, called Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which are aligned with Express Entry. These programs allow provinces to nominate candidates who meet specific local labor market needs. A provincial nomination significantly boosts a candidate’s CRS score by 600 points, effectively guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw.

Steps to Apply for Express Entry

1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for one of the three federal programs.
2. Create an Express Entry Profile: Complete your profile online and receive your CRS score.
3. Improve Your CRS Score: If needed, take steps to improve your score, such as gaining additional work experience, improving language test results, or securing a job offer in Canada.
4. Receive an ITA: If selected, you will receive an ITA and can proceed with your application for permanent residency.
5. Submit Your Application: Gather all required documents and submit your complete application within 60 days.
6. Wait for a Decision: IRCC aims to process applications within six months. Upon approval, you will receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

Canada’s Express Entry system is a dynamic and efficient pathway for skilled immigrants to achieve permanent residency. By understanding the nuances of the CRS and preparing a strong profile, potential candidates can significantly enhance their chances of receiving an ITA. EMIFA Immigration is here to guide you through every step of this journey, ensuring you have the best possible chance of success in starting a new life in Canada.