Introduction to Express Entry in Canada

Introduction

Canada has long been a destination for individuals seeking new opportunities and a higher quality of life. The country’s robust economy, diverse culture, and welcoming attitude towards immigrants make it an attractive option for many. To streamline the immigration process and attract skilled workers, Canada introduced the Express Entry system in 2015. This innovative system has transformed the way skilled workers apply for permanent residence in Canada, making it faster and more efficient.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online immigration application system used by the Canadian government to manage and process applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It is designed to be a fast-track system, aiming to process most applications within six months. The system evaluates potential immigrants based on their skills, work experience, language ability, and other factors, ensuring that Canada attracts individuals who are likely to succeed economically.

How Does Express Entry Work?

The Express Entry system is divided into three main programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. To be eligible for the FSWP, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • Work Experience: At least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience in the last 10 years in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification [NOC] skill level 0, A, or B).
  • Language Proficiency: A minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) in either English or French.
  • Education: A Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree, or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from a designated organization showing that the foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian credential.
  • Proof of Funds: Sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members upon arrival in Canada.
  • Points Grid: A minimum of 67 points out of 100 on the FSWP selection grid, which assesses factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and adaptability.


• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program is for skilled tradespeople who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade. To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • Work Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the five years before applying.
  • Language Proficiency: A minimum score of CLB 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing in either English or French.
  • Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification: A valid job offer of full-time employment for a total period of at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
  • Proof of Funds: Sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members upon arrival in Canada, unless they are already legally working in Canada or have a valid job offer.


• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents. To be eligible for the CEC, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • Work Experience: At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada, in the three years before applying. The work experience must be in a NOC skill level 0, A, or B job and must be gained while on a valid work permit.
  • Language Proficiency: A minimum score of CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs or CLB 5 for NOC B jobs in either English or French.
  • Education: There is no education requirement for the CEC, but having a Canadian educational credential or a foreign credential with an ECA can improve the CRS score.

The Process

1. Creating an Express Entry Profile: Interested candidates must first create an online Express Entry profile. This profile includes details about their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.
2. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS): Once the profile is created, candidates are assigned a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System. The CRS awards points for factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. Additional points can be earned through provincial nominations, Canadian degrees, diplomas or certificates, a valid job offer, and having siblings in Canada.
3. Invitation to Apply (ITA): The Canadian government conducts regular draws from the pool of candidates. Those with the highest CRS scores are issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
4. Submitting the Application: Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. This application includes supporting documents such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
5. Final Decision: Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reviews the applications and makes a final decision. Successful candidates receive confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) and can then make arrangements to move to Canada.

Benefits of Express Entry

• Efficiency: The Express Entry system is designed to process applications quickly, with most being completed within six months.
• Transparency: Candidates can see their CRS score and understand their chances of receiving an ITA.
• Flexibility: Express Entry allows candidates to improve their CRS scores over time by gaining more work experience, improving language skills, or obtaining additional education.



Conclusion

Express Entry has revolutionized the way skilled workers immigrate to Canada. Its efficient, transparent, and flexible approach ensures that Canada continues to attract the best and brightest from around the world. Whether you’re a skilled worker looking to start a new life in Canada or simply interested in the country’s immigration system, Express Entry represents a significant and positive change in the landscape of Canadian immigration.

If you’re considering applying for Express Entry and want to assess your eligibility, our law firm can help. Our experienced immigration professionals will guide you through the process, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of success. Contact us today for a comprehensive assessment and take the first step towards your new life in Canada.

For more information, you can use the CRS tool to calculate your score and review the past rounds of invitations to see the latest trends in CRS scores.