Canada’s Express Entry system is a competitive immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. To qualify, you must meet specific eligibility requirements under one of the three main programs:
1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
This program is for skilled workers with foreign work experience. To be eligible, you must:
- Have at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) within the last 10 years.
- Meet the minimum language requirement (CLB 7 in English or French).
- Hold a secondary school diploma or higher (foreign credentials must be assessed via an ECA).
- Score at least 67 points on the FSWP selection grid, which evaluates age, education, work experience, language skills, job offers, and adaptability.
2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
This program is for individuals with Canadian work experience. Eligibility requirements include:
- At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- Meeting the minimum language requirement:
- CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs
- CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs
- Work experience must have been gained while on a valid work permit.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
This program is designed for skilled trade workers. Eligibility includes:
- At least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
- A valid job offer in Canada for at least one year or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.
- Meeting the language requirement:
- CLB 5 for speaking and listening
- CLB 4 for reading and writing
Additional Requirements for Express Entry
Regardless of the program, you must also:
- Have sufficient settlement funds (unless you have a valid job offer).
- Be admissible to Canada (pass security and medical checks).
- Create an Express Entry profile and obtain a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Improving Your Express Entry Score
If your CRS score is low, you can boost it by:
- Enhancing your language test scores.
- Gaining more work experience.
- Getting a provincial nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Pursuing higher education.
Need Help Navigating the Express Entry Process?
At Canada Express Entry Assist, we provide expert guidance to maximize your eligibility and increase your chances of success.
Contact us today for a consultation!