Express Entry is a system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers through three main federal economic immigration programs. It streamlines the immigration process and is designed to be a fast and efficient way for Canada to select skilled immigrants who can contribute to the country's economy.
Overview of Express Entry
Express Entry is not a new immigration program itself, but rather a system for processing applications for the three existing federal economic immigration programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled workers who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents.
How Express Entry Works
Step 1: Find Out if You're Eligible:
You need to meet the eligibility criteria of one of the three federal programs managed through Express Entry.
Step 2: Prepare Documents:
Necessary documents include language test results, Educational Credential Assessments (if you’re educated outside Canada), and passports or travel documents, among others.
Step 3: Submit a Profile:
Eligible candidates submit an Express Entry profile online, where they provide information about their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.
Step 4: Receive a CRS Score:
Candidates in the Express Entry pool are given a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which ranks eligible candidates for immigration to Canada. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
IRCC conducts periodic draws to invite the highest-ranking candidates from the pool to apply for permanent residence.
Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residence:
If you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. The IRCC aims to process most Express Entry applications within six months.
Benefits of Express Entry
Express Entry is designed to fast-track the process of applying for Canadian permanent residence for skilled workers. The system is competitive and prioritizes candidates who are most likely to succeed economically in Canada. It also allows provinces and territories to use the system to meet local labor market needs through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) aligned with Express Entry.
For potential applicants, staying informed about changes to the Express Entry system and its requirements is crucial, as IRCC updates policies and procedures periodically. Checking the official IRCC website or consulting with an immigration expert can provide guidance and updated information.