Express Entry is Canada's most popular immigration system for skilled workers. It's fast, transparent, and based on points. Every year, thousands of people get permanent residence through this program. If you're looking for a straightforward pathway to Canada, Express Entry should be your starting point.
This guide explains how the system works, eligibility requirements, and how to maximise your chances of success.
1. What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence.
It covers three main federal immigration programs:
*Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) For skilled professionals with foreign work experience.
*Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) For people with trade skills (welders, electricians, butchers...).
*Canadian Experience Class (CEC) For candidates with Canadian work experience.
To know more Express Entry on the official IRCC website
It also supports some Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
Learn more on the official IRCC website
2. Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic criteria for one of the three programs:
* Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience.
- Minimum CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 in each band) in English or French.
- A Canadian secondary or post-secondary certificate or an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) for foreign education.
- Proof of funds (unless you already have a valid job offer or are working in Canada).
* Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Two years of work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
- A valid job offer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.
*Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
-At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.-
Required language levels: CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs, CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
Eligibility details
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility.html
3. Step-by-Step Process
1: Check Eligibility
Use the official tool to see if you qualify:
IRCC's eligibility tool
2: Get Your Documents Ready
You'll need:
- Passport
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Work experience letters
- Proof of funds
Full document checklist
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/documents.html
3: Create Your Express Entry Profile
Submit your information online to enter the Express Entry pool. You’ll receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language ability
- Job offer or nomination
Use this calculator to estimate your score: CRS score calculator
4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score is among the highest in the pool, you'll receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in the next draw.
Check latest Express Entry draws
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/rounds-invitations.html
5: Submit Your Application
Once you get your ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete PR application online.
Include all required documents such as medical exams, police certificates, and proof of funds.
6: Wait for a Decision
Most Express Entry applications are processed within 6 months.
You'll receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) once approved.
4. Improving Your CRS Score
If your score is low, here's how to increase it:
- Improve your IELTS/TEF score.
- Gain more work experience.
- Obtain a Provincial Nomination (adds 600 points).
- Get a Canadian job offer with LMIA approval.
- Pursue higher education or add your spouse’s credentials.
5. Provincial Nominee Streams Linked to Express Entry
Many provinces have special Express Entry-linked streams that target skilled workers in demand locally.
Examples include:
*Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream
*British Columbia Express Entry Stream
*Alberta Express Entry Stream
Explore all PNP programs
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees.html
6. After You're Approved
Once your PR application is approved:
- You'll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
-Apply for your Permanent Resident (PR) Card after landing.
- Start building your new life in Canada!
Learn what to do after you arrive
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants.html
The Express Entry system is fast, fair, and flexible designed for skilled professionals ready to contribute to Canada's workforce. With strong preparation and the right strategy, you can make your dream of living and working in Canada a reality. See you in the next article.