What Is Immigration to Canada via Express Entry?

Launched in 2015, the Express Entry system offers a streamlined pathway to Canadian permanent residency. Each month, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announces a minimum score required for applicant selection. Candidates register their applications based on this score range, aiming to secure their chance to enter Canada.

Canada is globally recognized as a leader in welcoming immigrants, managing its immigration programs with fair and precise regulations. Among its most popular initiatives is Express Entry, or “fast-track entry,” designed to attract skilled professionals. With an advanced education system, high social welfare standards, and a dynamic economy in need of young, skilled workers, Canada stands out as an ideal destination for immigrants worldwide.

Simply put, Express Entry evaluates applicants’ eligibility based on criteria such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and occupation. After ranking, those with the highest scores can gain entry to Canada through this system.

Immigration Programs Under Express Entry

Express Entry categorizes permanent residency applications under three main economic programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Additionally, Canadian provinces can issue permanent residency invitations to Express Entry applicants through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Pathways Through Express Entry

Applicants registering in Express Entry are automatically considered for one of the following three programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) This program targets skilled workers intending to settle anywhere in Canada except Quebec, requiring federal government approval. Applicants can register via Express Entry or secure a job offer from a Canadian employer. Upon receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), permanent residency is possible in any province except Quebec. Requirements:

• At least one year of full-time work experience (or equivalent) in NOC skill levels 0, A, or B
• Language proficiency at CLB 7 (English or French)
• Education equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma
• Proof of funds if no job offer is provided

2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) Aimed at skilled tradespeople not planning to settle in Quebec, this program follows a two-step process for Quebec-bound applicants:

• Selection: Credentials are reviewed under Quebec’s rules, and a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) is issued.
• Admission: After medical and security checks, the federal government issues the visa. Requirements:
• Language proficiency at CLB 5 (English or French)
• At least 2 years of relevant work experience in the past 5 years (NOC trades)
• Proof of funds unless holding a job offer or work permit

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) This program is for individuals with at least one year of work experience in Canada, applicable in all provinces except Quebec and Nunavut. Unlike the PNP, where applicants apply directly to a province, CEC involves provincial selection from the Express Entry pool. Requirements:

• One year of work experience in Canada within the past 3 years (NOC levels 0, A, or B)
• Language proficiency at CLB 5 for NOC B jobs, or CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs

Express Entry Costs

Registering in Express Entry is free, but fees apply after receiving an ITA. Typically, 50% is paid upon signing a contract, 25% after receiving a file number, and the final 25% upon visa issuance. Costs include:

• CAD 550 for the primary applicant and spouse
• CAD 150 per child under 22
• CAD 500 for permanent residency rights
• Additional expenses (language tests, credential assessments, translations)

Express Entry Visa

The system initially offers a temporary work visa. Applicants with sufficient scores in periodic Express Entry draws receive an ITA for permanent residency. Scoring is based on factors like work experience, language skills (minimum CLB 5), and education.

Application Process

1. Eligibility Check: Assess your qualifications using IRCC’s online tool.
2. Document Preparation: Gather identity documents, passport, work history, language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF), academic credentials, job offer (if applicable), proof of funds, etc.
3. Enter the Pool: Create a profile and meet minimum requirements to join the candidate pool.
4. Receive an ITA: High-scoring candidates receive an ITA and have 60 days to submit a permanent residency application.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

The maximum CRS score is 1200, with a variable minimum (e.g., 464) required to exit the pool. Scoring categories include:

1. Core Human Capital: Age, education, Canadian work experience, language skills
2. Spouse Factors: Spouse’s language skills, education, and work experience
3. Skill Transferability: Combinations of education, language, and foreign work experience
4. Additional Points: Up to 600 points for a job offer or provincial nomination

Ways to Boost Your Score

• Secure a job offer (50–200 points)
• Improve language test scores
• Gain more work experience or education
• Obtain a provincial nomination

National Occupation Classification (NOC)

The NOC system categorizes jobs by skill level and type:

• Type 0: Managerial roles
• Type A: Professional roles requiring a university degree
• Type B: Technical roles requiring college training
• Type C: Intermediate roles requiring a high school diploma
• Type D: Basic roles with on-the-job training

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Foreign credentials must be evaluated by one of seven IRCC-approved organizations (e.g., WES, ICAS) and remain valid for 5 years.

Conclusion

Express Entry is an online system for assessing work visa applicants. After eligibility confirmation and pool entry, candidates are ranked via CRS. Those receiving an ITA can apply for permanent residency. Accuracy in documentation is critical, as errors may lead to rejection or multi-year bans.

Table of Eligible Occupations for Category-Based Draws