Canada’s Express Entry Program is the most popular pathway for skilled workers to gain permanent residency (PR). It is a points-based system that selects candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for Express Entry, you must be eligible under one of these programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For skilled workers with foreign work experience.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For those with work experience in Canada.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For skilled trades workers.
You can check your eligibility using the official Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) calculator on the IRCC website.
Step 2: Take a Language Test
You must prove your language proficiency in English or French through an approved test such as:
- IELTS or CELPIP for English
- TEF or TCF for French
Your test results determine your CRS score, so aim for high scores to increase your chances.
Step 3: Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If you studied outside Canada, you need an ECA from an approved organization like WES, ICES, IQAS, or CES to verify your foreign education credentials.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
- Visit the IRCC website and create your Express Entry profile.
- Enter your personal details, education, work experience, and language test scores.
- Your profile will be given a CRS score and placed in the Express Entry pool.
Step 5: Improve Your CRS Score (Optional)
If your CRS score is low, you can improve it by:
- Getting a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Improving your language test scores
- Applying for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Gaining more work experience
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- The IRCC conducts Express Entry draws regularly.
- If your CRS score meets the cut-off, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
- Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your complete application.
Step 7: Submit Your PR Application
- Submit police clearance certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
- Pay the application fees and upload required documents.
Step 8: Wait for PR Approval
- The processing time is usually 6 months.
- If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
Step 9: Move to Canada!
- Land in Canada before your COPR expires.
- Apply for your PR card upon arrival.
Need Assistance?
Applying for Express Entry can be complex. Canada Express Entry Assist is here to help you optimize your profile, improve your CRS score, and navigate the application process smoothly.
Contact us today to start your Canadian immigration journey!