Express Entry

Introduced in 2015, Canada’s Express Entry system manages immigration applications for skilled workers seeking permanent residence. Candidates submit an online profile and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns up to 1,200 points based on multiple factors.

What Is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online immigration system used by the Canadian government to process applications for skilled workers. It manages the following federal economic programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

How to Apply for Express Entry

The application process involves three main steps:

• Submit an Express Entry profile with language results, ECA, and passport
• Receive a CRS score and enter the candidate pool
• Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and submit full documentation

Who Is Eligible?

Ideal candidates typically have post-secondary education, skilled work experience, and moderate proficiency in English and/or French.

Minimum Requirements

• At least one year of skilled work experience in the past 10 years
• Minimum CLB 7 in English or French
• Completed post-secondary education with ECA

Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. Stronger profiles are prioritized.

Processing Time

• Profile valid for 12 months
• 60 days to submit full application after ITA
• Average processing time: ~6 months

CRS Score Explained

CRS scores are calculated based on age, education, language proficiency, work experience, spouse factors, and Canadian connections. Provincial nominations add 600 points.

Ideal Express Entry Candidate

• Under 39 years old
• Master’s degree or two Bachelor’s degrees
• CLB 9 or higher in English and/or French
• Three or more years of skilled work experience

Provincial Nominee Programs and occupation-based draws allow candidates with lower CRS scores to succeed.