The Express Entry system is a popular pathway for skilled immigrants to obtain permanent residency in Canada. One of the critical components of this system is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool. A higher CRS score increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Here are several strategies to improve your CRS score and enhance your chances of success:

1. Enhance Your Language Skills

Language proficiency in English and/or French is a significant factor in the CRS score. Here are some tips to maximize your language points:

1. Accepted Language Tests: The tests currently accepted are IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE for English. For French, you can take the TEF or TCF tests.
2. Study and Practice: Study the test formats and practice with mock tests to improve your scores. There are numerous resources available online to help you prepare.
3. Retake the Tests: You can take the tests multiple times to improve your scores and choose the best results to include in your Express Entry profile.
4. Second Language: Consider taking tests in both English and French. You can take French as a second language or as the primary language and English as the secondary, to further increase your CRS score.
5. French Language Skills: If you speak French, you can also potentially benefit from category-based draws in the French category. We will discuss these category-based draws and what they are about in further detail in upcoming blog posts.

2. Gain More Work Experience

Work experience, both in Canada and abroad, can significantly impact your CRS score. Here’s how to leverage it:

• Canadian Work Experience: If you have the opportunity, gaining work experience in Canada can add substantial points. If you do not have enough points to get an ITA, consider obtaining a work permit first to accumulate precious Canadian work experience.
• Foreign Work Experience: Ensure all your relevant work experience is accurately documented and verified.
• Skill Level and Occupations: Experience in high-demand occupations can sometimes lead to other opportunities like provincial nominations. Certain occupation NOCs also have category-based draws, which may have lower cut-offs than the general draws. Again, we will discuss category-based draws in future blog posts.

3. Increase Your Education Level

Education is another critical factor in the CRS score. Consider the following:

• Further Education: Pursuing additional degrees, diplomas, or certifications can boost your score.
• Educational Credential Assessment: Ensure your foreign education credentials are assessed by a designated organization or a designated professional body. Some designated organizations include WES (World Education Services), IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service), and ICES (International Credential Evaluation Service).

4. Secure a Job Offer

A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly enhance your CRS score:

• LMIA-Approved Jobs: Ensure the job offer is supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• LMIA-Exempt Jobs: Certain jobs are exempt from the LMIA process but still qualify as arranged employment under the Express Entry system. LMIA-exempt job offers are typically related to specific international agreements (e.g., NAFTA), intra-company transferees, or significant benefits to Canada, such as jobs related to academic exchanges or public policy. These exemptions make it easier for employers to hire foreign workers without going through the extensive LMIA process, and candidates can still earn additional CRS points for having a valid job offer.
• Job Bank: Register with the Canadian Job Bank to connect with potential employers.

5. Obtain a Provincial Nomination

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a significant CRS score boost:

• PNPs are a two-step process. The first step involves obtaining a nomination from a province, which then leads to the second step of applying through the Express Entry system with additional points.
• Research PNPs: Look into the different PNP streams to find one that matches your profile.
• Apply for Nomination: Follow the application process for the relevant PNP. A successful nomination can add up to 600 points to your CRS score.

6. Maximize Points Through Your Spouse

If you are applying with a spouse or common-law partner, their profile can also affect your CRS score:

• Language Skills: Encourage your spouse to take language tests and improve their scores.
• Education and Work Experience: Ensure their education and work experience are properly documented and assessed.
• Consider Two Profiles: It may be beneficial to create two separate Express Entry profiles, one for each spouse. This strategy allows both of you to be in the pool, doubling your chances of receiving an ITA. Additionally, you can compare which profile has a higher CRS score and choose the primary applicant accordingly. This flexibility can optimize your chances of success.
• Apply Without Spouse: Another strategy is to apply without your spouse if your CRS score is higher without your spouse. Once you receive your ITA and become a permanent resident, you can then sponsor your spouse through the Family Class sponsorship program. This can sometimes be a more effective way to secure permanent residency for both of you.

7. Claim Additional Points for Siblings in Canada

Having a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can add extra points to your CRS score:

• Provide Proof: Ensure you have the necessary documentation to prove your sibling’s status in Canada.

8. Stay Up to Date

Regularly check the latest Express Entry draws and CRS score trends:

1. Adapt Your Strategy: Based on the trends, you might need to adjust your strategy to improve your score.
2. Express Entry Profile: Keep your Express Entry profile up to date with any new achievements or changes in your situation.
3. Monitor Immigration Laws and Policies: Immigration laws, regulations, and policies can change frequently. Staying informed about these changes can help you adapt your application strategy accordingly and ensure you are taking advantage of all possible opportunities to improve your CRS score.

9. Factors Beyond Your Control

While there are many strategies to improve your CRS score, it’s important to recognize that some factors are beyond your control, such as:

1. Age: The CRS score decreases with age, starting at 30 years. Keep in mind that you will lose points each year from age 30 to age 45, after which no additional points for age are awarded.

Final Thoughts

Improving your CRS score in the Express Entry system requires a strategic approach and consistent effort. By enhancing your language skills, gaining more work experience, furthering your education, and exploring additional avenues such as PNPs and job offers, you can significantly boost your chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency in Canada. Stay informed, be proactive, and take advantage of all the available resources to improve your CRS score.

If you need personalized advice and tailored strategies to improve your CRS score, book a consultation with us today. Our experts can assess your situation and provide recommendations to help you achieve your immigration goals. Contact us now to get started on your path to Canadian permanent residency.