Express Entry: A Step-By-Step Guide to Immigrating to Canada

Canada’s Express Entry system is an efficient online platform that effectively manages immigration applications from skilled workers.

It is a comprehensive program that encompasses various immigration pathways. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of how Express Entry operates and the necessary steps to secure an invitation to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

What exactly is Express Entry? Express Entry is an online platform managed by the Canadian government designed for the purpose of processing immigration applications from skilled workers. Largely based on points, this system assesses the qualification of candidates and sorts them into score-ordered contestant pools. Those with the highest scores are then invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

To qualify for Express Entry, certain criteria must be met. You must be between the ages of 18 and 64, possess at least one year of skilled work experience within the past decade, fulfil the language requirements and have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family members in Canada.

Express Entry offers three primary immigration programs that cater to different categories of skilled workers.

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

In order to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), individuals must have acquired their Canadian work experience within the three years preceding their application. This work experience can encompass a variety of skilled positions across different industries, including professional, technical, and managerial roles.
The reason for this criterion is to guarantee that applicants possess up-to-date and pertinent experience in the Canadian job market. This, in turn, enhances their chances of successfully assimilating into the workforce and positively contributing to the country's economy.

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The aim of the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is to cater to skilled professionals who have gained work experience in countries other than Canada. Those who wish to apply for the FSWP must fulfil certain requirements regarding their education, work experience, and other relevant factors. These requirements may encompass, among other things, a minimum level of education (generally equivalent to a foreign degree in Canada), language proficiency (usually demonstrated through language test scores), and work experience in a skilled trade occupation.

Meeting these criteria allows for an assessment of whether applicants possess the necessary qualifications to contribute to Canada's labour market and society.

3. Federal Skilled Traded Program

In order to be eligible for FSTP, individuals must meet one of two criteria. They must either have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer in a skilled trade occupation or possess a certificate of qualification in their specific trade. The job offer demonstrates the demand for their skills in the Canadian job market, while the certificate of qualification ensures that their skills meet the standards and requirements of the trade. These criteria ensure that FSTP candidates are prepared to contribute their specialized skills to the Canadian workforce, thereby enhancing the nation's trade industries and economy as a whole.

The Step-by-Step Process for Express Entry

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Before initiating your Express Entry journey, it is important to evaluate your eligibility.

Step 2: Determine Your CRS Score

By meeting the requirements of one or more Express Entry programs and submitting your profile, your ranking in the Express Entry pool is determined through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Your place in the pool depends on your profile, and to receive an invitation, your score should exceed the minimum cutoff for that particular round of invitations. The CRS tool is a useful resource for estimating your CRS score.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

When filling out your Express Entry profile, the validation of your eligibility may require an assortment of documentation - including language test scores. Do not underestimate the effort and duration of obtaining these necessary documents. For best results, it is advised that you procure the documents well ahead of time.

Step 4: Fill Out Your Express Entry Profile

To complete your Express Entry profile, you must enter thorough details about yourself which includes your skills, education, employment background, and language prowess. Once you match the required criteria, the system will validate your profile, appraise it and present your CRS score.

Step 5: Receive Invitation

The candidates with the highest scores in the Express Entry pool receive invitations to apply for permanent residence. Upon being invited, you must submit your application within a discretionary 60-day window. Typically, thoroughly completed applications are processed within six months or less

The Express Entry program in Canada creates a direct and uncomplicated way for proficient employees to put in an application for permanent residency in the nation. Honouring the sequential procedures and complete eligibility will improve the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for immigration to Canada.