Express Entry

Express Entry

Overview

Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It is designed to facilitate the immigration process and select candidates who are most likely to succeed in Canada.

Key Components

  1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  4. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (for Express Entry streams)
 

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Work Experience: At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the same job within the last 10 years, in a skilled occupation.
  • Language Ability: Achieve a minimum score of CLB 7 in an approved language test.
  • Education: A Canadian high school diploma or equivalent foreign credential (must be assessed by an approved agency).
  • Points Grid: Score at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSWP selection grid, which assesses factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Key Benefits:

  • Provides a pathway for skilled workers with no prior Canadian work experience.
  • Allows applicants to bring their families.
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Work Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last five years.
  • Language Ability: Minimum score of CLB 5 in speaking and listening, and CLB 4 in reading and writing.
  • Job Offer/Certification: A full-time job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

Key Benefits:

  • Tailored for individuals skilled in trade occupations.
  • Provides opportunities for skilled tradespeople to obtain permanent residence.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Work Experience: At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada, in the three years before applying.
  • Language Ability: Minimum score of CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs or CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
  • Education: No specific education requirement, but more points are awarded for higher education levels.

Key Benefits:

  • Provides a fast-track pathway for those with Canadian work experience.
  • Ideal for international students and temporary foreign workers transitioning to permanent residence.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Express Entry Streams

Overview:

  • Purpose: Allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their specific labor market needs.
  • Integration with Express Entry: Nominees receive an additional 600 points towards their CRS score, effectively guaranteeing an ITA.

Key Benefits:

  • Increases chances of receiving an ITA due to high CRS score.
  • Tailored to specific provincial labor market needs.
 
 

Application Process

  1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  2. Step 2: Create an Express Entry Profile

    • Submit your profile online and provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.

  3. Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

    • Top-ranked candidates in the Express Entry pool receive an ITA for permanent residence.
    • You have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

  4. Step 4: Submit Your Application

    • Provide all necessary documents, such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
    • Pay the application fees and submit your application online.

  5. Step 5: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

    • If your application is approved, you will receive a COPR and a permanent resident visa (if applicable).
    • Travel to Canada and become a permanent resident.
 
 

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score your profile and rank it in the Express Entry pool. Points are awarded based on the following factors:

  • Age
  • Education
  • Language Proficiency
  • Work Experience
  • Canadian Job Offer
  • Provincial Nomination
 
 

Benefits of Express Entry

  • Fast Processing Times: Most applications are processed within six months.
  • Transparency: Clear criteria and a points-based system.
  • Flexibility: Ability to improve your score and re-enter the pool if not initially selected.
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Integration: Increases your chances of being selected.
 
 

Useful Resources

 
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT IF YOU'RE ELIGIBLE

If you need assistance with your Express Entry application, please contact us. Our experienced consultants are here to help you navigate the process and improve your chances of success.