Canada’s Express Entry system is the most popular and fastest way for skilled workers to obtain Permanent Residence (PR). It is a points-based immigration system designed to select candidates based on their skills, work experience, education, and language ability.
Since its launch in 2015, Express Entry has helped thousands of immigrants settle in Canada, contributing to the country’s workforce and economy. However, many applicants struggle with low CRS scores, incorrect documentation, and understanding the process.
This guide will cover everything about the Express Entry system, including eligibility, how to improve your CRS score, processing time, and common mistakes to avoid.
- What is the Express Entry System?
Express Entry is an online application management system for three federal immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• For skilled workers with at least one year of experience in a professional occupation.
• Requires a minimum CRS score of 67 out of 100 to qualify.
• Education and language proficiency play a crucial role. - Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• For candidates with at least one year of Canadian work experience in the last 3 years.
• Ideal for temporary foreign workers and international graduates in Canada. - Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• For skilled trade workers with experience in occupations like electricians, plumbers, welders, and construction workers.
• Requires a valid job offer or Canadian certification in the trade.
In addition to these programs, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) also work with Express Entry, allowing candidates to receive additional 600 CRS points and boost their chances of selection.
- Express Entry Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet requirements in the following areas:
- Age
✔ Ideal age: 20-29 years (maximum points).
✔ Points decrease after 30 years.
✔ No age limit, but 40+ candidates lose points.
- Education
✔ Minimum required: High school diploma.
✔ Higher education = more CRS points.
✔ ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) required for foreign degrees.
- Work Experience
✔ Minimum 1 year of continuous full-time work experience.
✔ More experience = more points (up to 3+ years).
✔ Must be in NOC (National Occupational Classification) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 jobs.
- Language Proficiency
✔ Must take IELTS or CELPIP for English (minimum CLB 7 for FSWP).
✔ French speakers get additional points (TEF Canada or TCF Canada).
✔ Higher scores = more CRS points.
- Proof of Funds
✔ Minimum CAD $13,757 for a single applicant.
✔ Higher for families (CAD $17,127 for two people, etc.).
✔ Not required if applying under CEC or with a job offer.
- Express Entry Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use the IRCC Express Entry calculator to check if you meet the minimum requirements.
Step 2: Take Your Language Test (IELTS/CELPIP)
• IELTS General or CELPIP General for English.
• TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French (extra points for bilingual candidates).
Step 3: Get Your ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)
• Required if your education is outside Canada.
• Must be done by approved agencies like WES, IQAS, ICAS, or CES.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
• Submit details on education, work experience, language scores, and proof of funds.
• Your profile enters the Express Entry pool with a CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score.
Step 5: Improve Your CRS Score (If Necessary)
• If your score is low, take steps to improve it (discussed in Section 4).
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
• IRCC conducts draws every 2 weeks.
• If your CRS score is above the cut-off, you will receive an ITA for PR.
Step 7: Submit PR Application
• Provide medical exams, police clearance certificates, and proof of funds.
• Pay the application fee (CAD $1,365 per adult).
Step 8: Get Your PR Confirmation & Move to Canada
• If approved, you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
• Move to Canada and become a permanent resident!
- How to Increase Your CRS Score for Express Entry
If your CRS score is low, you can boost it using these strategies:
✅ Retake IELTS/CELPIP to improve scores (especially in speaking and writing).
✅ Get a provincial nomination (PNP) for an additional 600 CRS points.
✅ Gain more work experience (especially in Canada).
✅ Pursue higher education (a master’s degree gives more points than a bachelor’s).
✅ Learn French (CLB 7 or higher in TEF/TCF can give 50 additional points).
✅ Secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (adds 50-200 points).
- Express Entry Processing Time & Fees
Processing Time
⏳ 6 months (after ITA submission).
⏳ May take longer if there are document issues or background checks.
Fees
💰 Application Fee: CAD $1,365 per adult.
💰 Biometrics Fee: CAD $85 per person.
💰 ECA Fee: CAD $200-300.
💰 IELTS Fee: CAD $300.
Total cost varies based on family size, but expect to spend at least CAD $2,000 – $3,000.
- Common Reasons for Express Entry Rejection (and How to Avoid Them!)
🔴 1. Incorrect or Missing Documents
✔ Solution: Follow IRCC’s document checklist carefully.
🔴 2. Low CRS Score
✔ Solution: Improve language scores, education, or apply for PNP.
🔴 3. Incomplete Work Experience Proof
✔ Solution: Submit detailed reference letters with job duties.
🔴 4. Insufficient Proof of Funds
✔ Solution: Show valid bank statements from the last 6 months.
🔴 5. Medical or Criminal Issues
✔ Solution: Get proper medical clearance and police certificates.
- Alternative Pathways If You’re Not Selected
If you don’t get an ITA, consider these options:
🔹 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Apply for PNP streams with lower CRS requirements.
🔹 Study in Canada: Get a study permit, then apply for PR through CEC.
🔹 Work Permit: Apply for LMIA-based job offers and increase your CRS score.
🔹 Family Sponsorship: If you have relatives in Canada, they might sponsor you.
Conclusion
Express Entry is the fastest way to become a Canadian Permanent Resident, but understanding CRS scores, documentation, and improving your profile is crucial.
By following this guide, you can increase your chances of getting an ITA and successfully immigrate to Canada.
💡 Need expert help? Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application!
Best of luck with your Canada PR journey! 🇨🇦🚀