How Express Entry works
Express Entry is an online system that the Government of Canada uses to manage applications from Skilled Workers who intend to immigrate to Canada. The most important factors are Age, Language Skills (English and/or French), relevant Work Experience and Education.
Candidates who meet eligibility criteria may submit an online profile (Expression of Interest – EOI) to the Express Entry Pool under one of these programs, or a Provincial Immigration Program (PIP).
Each candidate’s profile is awarded points according to the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) and ranked based on the total number of points received. The candidates with the highest scores in the Pool will receive invitations to apply (ITA) for Permanent Residence within 60 days of receiving the ITA. The Government typically processes complete applications which include all supporting documents within 6 months.
There are 3 immigration programs under Express Entry.
Canadian Experience Class
- For skilled workers who have Canadian work experience
- Applicant’s work experience must have been gained in the 3 years before applying
Federal Skilled Worker Program
- For skilled workers with foreign work experience
- Applicant must meet criteria for education and other factors
Federal Skilled Trades Program
- For skilled workers who are qualified in a skilled trade
- Applicant must have a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification
If the applicant is eligible for one of the above programs, they can also apply via Express Entry for the Provincial Nominee Program (PIP). If the application is successful, they receive a provincial “nomination” and get extra points (typically 600 points) and a high probability to get an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
