Complete Guide to Canada's Express Entry Immigration System (English)

Canada's Express Entry Guide

Welcome to the Canada Express Entry Guide by VisaVio.

Embarking on the journey to immigrate to Canada is an exciting and significant decision. The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for managing skilled worker applications for permanent residence. This guide is designed to provide you with comprehensive information about the Express Entry system, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and tips to enhance your chances of success. Whether you're just starting to consider Canada as your new home or you're ready to submit your application, VisaVio is here to support you every step of the way.

Express Entry Overview

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system introduced by the Government of Canada to manage and process applications for skilled workers seeking to immigrate to Canada and obtain permanent residence. It serves as the primary mechanism for selecting candidates under three federal immigration programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Through Express Entry, candidates submit an online profile, and those who meet the eligibility criteria are accepted into a pool of potential immigrants. Candidates are then ranked against each other based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which considers factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence during regular invitation rounds.

How can I apply for Express Entry?

Applying for Express Entry involves a three-step process:

Prepare Your Documents and Submit Your Profile:
- Language Test Results: You need valid results from an approved language test in English (IELTS or CELPIP) or French (TEF or TCF).
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you completed your education outside Canada, an ECA report is required to verify that your foreign degrees, diplomas, or certificates are valid and equivalent to Canadian standards.
- Passport or Travel Document: A valid passport is necessary for identification purposes.
Create an Express Entry profile online by providing detailed information about your skills, work experience, education, language ability, and other personal details.
Receive a CRS Score and Enter the Pool:
- Once your profile is submitted, you will receive a CRS score out of 1,200 points. This score determines your rank within the pool of candidates.
- Regularly update your profile with any new information that could increase your score, such as additional work experience or improved language test results.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
- If you are among the highest-ranking candidates, you will receive an ITA during one of the regular draws.
- Upon receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence, including supporting documents like police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.

VisaVio can assist you through this entire process, providing guidance and support to enhance your chances of success. Start by using our CRS Calculator to estimate your score.

Who is eligible for Express Entry?

The Express Entry system targets skilled workers with experience in managerial, professional, technical, or skilled trades occupations. Ideal candidates typically have:

Skilled Work Experience: At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a skilled occupation within the last 10 years.
Education: A secondary diploma (high school graduation) is required at a minimum, but higher education increases your competitiveness.
Language Proficiency: Moderate to high proficiency in English and/or French, demonstrated through approved language tests.

To determine your eligibility, you can use VisaVio's Free Online Express Entry Assessment.

What are the requirements for Express Entry?

To be eligible for Express Entry, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

Work Experience:
- At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in a skilled occupation (NOC skill type 0, A, or B) within the last 10 years.
Language Proficiency:
- Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, listening, speaking) in an approved English or French language test.
Education:
- A Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree, or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from an approved agency showing that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian qualification.
Proof of Funds:
- Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members in Canada, unless you are currently authorized to work in Canada or have a valid job offer.

Meeting these minimum requirements allows you to enter the Express Entry pool but does not guarantee an invitation. Strengthening your profile and improving your CRS score enhances your chances of receiving an ITA.

How much does Express Entry cost?

The total cost of immigrating through Express Entry can vary but generally includes:

Language Test Fees: Approximately CAD $300, depending on the test and location.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Around CAD $200.
Biometrics Fee: CAD $85 per person.
Government Application Fees:
- Permanent Residence Application: CAD $1,365 per adult applicant.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: Included in the above or can be paid later.
- Child Application Fee: CAD $230 per dependent child.
Medical Examination Fees: Approximately CAD $450 per adult and CAD $250 per child.
Police Clearance Certificates: Costs vary by country but average around CAD $100.

In addition to these fees, you must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds, which are not fees but required proof that you can support yourself financially upon arrival in Canada. The required amounts are:

Number of Family Members	Funds Required (in CAD)
1	$14,690
2	$18,288
3	$22,483
4	$27,297
5	$30,690
6	$34,917
7 or more	$38,875
For each additional member	$3,958

Note: Amounts are updated as of May 2024.

Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?

No, a job offer is not mandatory to apply through Express Entry. Many candidates are selected without a Canadian job offer. However, having a valid job offer can significantly increase your CRS score by up to 200 points, enhancing your chances of receiving an ITA.

A valid job offer must be:

For continuous, paid, full-time work (at least 30 hours per week).
For at least one year after receiving your permanent resident visa.
Supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), unless exempt.

How long does Express Entry take?

The Express Entry process timeline includes:

Profile Validity: Your Express Entry profile remains valid for 12 months in the pool.
Invitation to Apply: If you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your complete application.
Application Processing Time: The Government of Canada aims to process complete applications within six months from the date of submission.

However, processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications. It's advisable to prepare thoroughly and ensure all documents are accurate to prevent delays.

Express Entry Points and Eligibility

How are Express Entry points calculated?

Express Entry points, or CRS scores, are calculated based on:

Core Human Capital Factors:
- Age
- Education
- Language Proficiency
- Canadian Work Experience
Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors (if applicable):
- Education
- Language Proficiency
- Canadian Work Experience
Skill Transferability Factors:
- Combination of education and work experience with language proficiency.
Additional Points:
- Sibling in Canada
- French language skills
- Post-secondary education in Canada
- Arranged employment
- Provincial nomination (600 additional points)

Candidates can score up to 1,200 points. Use VisaVio's CRS Calculator to estimate your score.

Will the CRS score cut-off go down?

Predicting future CRS cut-off scores is challenging as they fluctuate based on the pool of candidates and government immigration targets. Factors influencing the cut-off include:

Number of candidates in the pool
Frequency and size of draws
Changes in immigration policy

While it's impossible to guarantee lower cut-offs, candidates can improve their CRS score by enhancing language proficiency, gaining additional work experience, or obtaining a provincial nomination.

What is the ideal Express Entry candidate?

An ideal Express Entry candidate typically has:

Age: Between 20-29 years old.
Education: Master's degree or higher.
Language Proficiency: High proficiency in English and/or French (CLB level 9 or above).
Work Experience: Over three years of skilled work experience.
Adaptability Factors: Canadian education or work experience, sibling in Canada, or a valid job offer.

Such candidates tend to score higher in the CRS and have better chances of receiving an ITA.

What is the difference between Express Entry eligibility points and CRS score?

Express Entry Eligibility Points: For the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you must score at least 67 out of 100 on the selection grid, which assesses factors like age, education, work experience, language ability, adaptability, and arranged employment.
CRS Score: Once eligible and in the pool, candidates receive a CRS score out of 1,200 points, which ranks them against other candidates. The CRS score determines who receives an ITA.

Is there a minimum score for Express Entry?

Yes, for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you must score at least 67 points out of 100 on the eligibility grid to enter the Express Entry pool. However, there is no fixed minimum CRS score for receiving an ITA, as it varies with each draw.

How are my language points calculated?

Language points are calculated based on your test results in English and/or French across four abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

First Official Language:
- Maximum of 24 points for the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Second Official Language:
- Up to 4 additional points.

For the CRS, higher language proficiency can significantly boost your score, especially if combined with education and work experience.

Do I Need IELTS for Express Entry in Canada?

Yes, proof of language proficiency is mandatory for Express Entry. IELTS General Training is one of the approved English language tests. Alternative options include:

CELPIP-General: For English.
TEF Canada or TCF Canada: For French.

You must achieve minimum scores to meet eligibility, but higher scores improve your CRS ranking.

How does my IELTS score affect my CRS score?

Your IELTS scores directly impact your CRS score:

Higher Scores Equal More Points: Achieving CLB level 9 or above significantly increases points under language factors.
Skill Transferability Factors: High language proficiency can double your points when combined with education or foreign work experience.

Improving your IELTS scores is one of the most effective ways to enhance your CRS score.

Does my spouse or common law partner need to take the IELTS exam?

While not mandatory, if your spouse or common-law partner takes an approved language test, you can gain additional points:

Federal Skilled Worker Program Eligibility: Up to 5 extra points toward the 67-point requirement.
CRS Score: Up to 20 additional points under spouse factors.

This can improve your overall ranking in the pool.

Why is my Express Entry score zero?

A CRS score of zero indicates that:

Ineligibility: Your profile does not meet the minimum requirements of any Express Entry programs.
Expired Documents: Language test results or ECA reports may have expired.
Invalid Information: Incorrect or insufficient details in your profile.

Review your profile to identify and correct any issues, ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date.

What CRS score is required for Canadian PR?

There is no fixed CRS score required for permanent residence as cut-off scores vary with each draw. Historically, CRS cut-offs have ranged from the low 400s to over 500. Achieving a higher CRS score increases your chances of receiving an ITA.

Stay informed about recent cut-off scores to gauge where you stand.

Why is the CRS cut-off so high?

The CRS cut-off is influenced by:

High Competition: A large number of qualified candidates in the pool.
Immigration Targets: Government policies on immigration levels.
Draw Size and Frequency: Smaller or infrequent draws can keep cut-offs higher.

Candidates can improve their CRS scores through various means to stay competitive.

CRS score trend

CRS score trends fluctuate due to:

Changes in Policy: Introduction of new programs or adjustments in immigration targets.
Pool Composition: Varying profiles and scores of candidates in the pool.
Provincial Nominations: Increase in PNP invitations can affect overall cut-offs.

Monitoring trends helps in strategic planning for your application.

Is 438/459/467/462 a good CRS score?

Scores Around 460 and Above: Historically, candidates with scores in the high 460s or above have had better chances.
Scores Around 438: Lower probability but not impossible, especially if you qualify for a PNP or can improve your score.

Consider steps to increase your CRS score or explore provincial nominations to enhance your prospects.

CRS score history

To view historical CRS cut-off scores and draw results, refer to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or trusted immigration resources. This data provides insight into past trends and may help set expectations.

How to calculate your CRS score

Use VisaVio's CRS Calculator to:

Input Your Details: Provide accurate information about your age, education, language test results, work experience, and other factors.
Receive an Estimate: The calculator will generate an estimated CRS score.
Identify Areas for Improvement: Understand which factors you can enhance to increase your score.

Submitting an Express Entry Profile

What is an Express Entry profile?

An Express Entry profile is an online form submitted to IRCC that includes personal information and details about your:

Identity and Family Information
Contact Details
Education
Work Experience
Language Proficiency
Adaptability Factors

This profile determines your eligibility and calculates your CRS score to enter the pool of candidates.

How to create an Express Entry profile

Gather Necessary Documents:
- Language Test Results
- ECA Report (if applicable)
- Passport or Travel Document
Create an IRCC Secure Account:
- Visit the Government of Canada’s website and create an account.
Complete the Eligibility Questionnaire:
- Answer questions to determine your eligibility.
Fill Out the Profile Form:
- Provide detailed and accurate information in all required sections.
Submit Your Profile:
- Review all entries before submitting.
- After submission, you will receive a confirmation and your Express Entry profile number.

VisaVio can assist you throughout this process to ensure your profile is completed correctly.

Can I Apply for Express Entry While in Canada?

Yes, you can apply for Express Entry while you are in Canada or abroad. Being physically present in Canada does not affect your eligibility. Many applicants apply while on temporary work permits or as international students.

What language results are required for Express Entry?

You must provide valid test results from an approved language test taken within the last two years:

For English:
- IELTS General Training
- CELPIP-General
For French:
- TEF Canada
- TCF Canada

Minimum required scores vary by program but generally require at least CLB level 7 for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Which ECA report do I need for Express Entry?

You need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report for immigration purposes from an approved organization, such as:

World Education Services (WES)
International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
Comparative Education Service (CES)

Ensure the report states your foreign education is equivalent to Canadian standards.

How will a job offer affect my Express Entry profile?

A valid job offer can:

Increase CRS Score: Add 50 to 200 points, depending on the NOC level of the job.
Enhance Eligibility: Particularly beneficial if your CRS score is below recent cut-offs.

The job offer must be:

For at least one year.
Full-time, continuous, and paid.
Supported by an LMIA (unless exempt).

How do I find my NOC code?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code represents your job title and duties. To find your NOC code:

Visit the NOC Website: Use the official NOC tool.
Search by Job Title or Industry:
- Enter your job title to see possible matches.
Match Duties:
- Review the main duties listed and ensure they align with your work experience.

Choosing the correct NOC code is crucial for your application’s success.

Why am I ineligible to submit an Express Entry profile?

Common reasons include:

Insufficient Work Experience: Less than one year of skilled work experience.
Language Scores Below Minimum Requirements.
Educational Qualifications: Not meeting minimum education levels.
Incorrect Information: Errors in the eligibility questionnaire.
Expired Documents: Language test results or ECA reports are no longer valid.

Review eligibility criteria and correct any errors before reapplying.

How can I check the status of my Express Entry profile?

Log into your IRCC account:

Access Your Profile:
- Click “View the applications you submitted.”
View Status:
- Under “Express Entry profile status,” click “View your profile.”
Monitor Updates:
- Review any messages or updates from IRCC.

Regularly check your account for any correspondence.

How long is an Express Entry profile valid?

An Express Entry profile is valid for 12 months from the date of submission. If you do not receive an ITA within this period, you can resubmit a new profile, provided you are still eligible.

Submitting a Permanent Residence Application under Express Entry

What is an Invitation to Apply?

An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is an official invitation from IRCC to submit a permanent residence application. It is issued to candidates in the Express Entry pool who meet or exceed the CRS cut-off in a draw.

What happens if I receive an Invitation to Apply?

Upon receiving an ITA:

Accept the Invitation:
- Log into your IRCC account to accept the ITA.
Gather Required Documents:
- Collect documents such as police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds, and work experience letters.
Submit Application Within 60 Days:
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
Pay Application Fees:
- Include processing fees and right of permanent residence fees.
Await Processing:
- The standard processing time is approximately six months.

Failure to submit a complete application within 60 days results in the expiration of the ITA.

How to obtain an Express Entry police certificate

To obtain a police certificate:

Identify Requirements:
- Visit IRCC’s website for country-specific instructions.
Apply to Relevant Authorities:
- Contact the police or relevant authority in the country where you resided.
Provide Necessary Documents:
- May include fingerprints, identification, or application forms.
Submit to IRCC:
- Upload the certificate to your application.

Ensure the certificate is recent and meets IRCC’s validity requirements.

How can I prove my work experience for Express Entry?

To prove your work experience:

Reference Letters:
- Obtain letters from employers on company letterhead, including:
- Job title
- Duties and responsibilities
- Employment dates
- Hours worked per week
- Salary and benefits
- Supervisor’s name and contact information
Supporting Documents:
- Pay stubs
- Employment contracts
- Tax documents

Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable.

How to obtain a medical certificate for Express Entry

Find a Panel Physician:
- Use IRCC’s list of approved panel physicians in your country.
Schedule an Appointment:
- Book a medical exam; inform the physician it is for Canadian immigration.
Undergo Medical Examination:
- Includes physical exam, blood tests, X-rays.
Receive Proof:
- The physician will provide a document confirming the examination.

Upload the confirmation to your application; the physician will send results directly to IRCC.

How to demonstrate proof of settlement funds for Express Entry

Provide official letters from financial institutions:

Content of Letter:
- On official letterhead
- Include institution’s contact information
- Your name
- List outstanding debts (credit cards, loans)
- For each account include:
- Account numbers
- Date opened
- Current balance
- Average balance over past six months

Ensure funds are readily available and transferable.

Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs

What’s better: PNP or Express Entry?

Express Entry:
- Faster processing (aim for six months).
- Does not require a job offer.
- Competitive CRS score needed.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
- Can increase CRS score by 600 points.
- May have specific criteria aligning with your profile.
- Additional processing time.

If your CRS score is low, a PNP may enhance your chances. VisaVio can help assess the best option for you.

Can I apply for Express Entry and PNP at the same time?

Yes, you can:

Express Entry Profile:
- Create and maintain an active profile.
PNP Application:
- Apply to provinces that interest you.

Receiving a provincial nomination boosts your CRS score, increasing your chances in Express Entry.

How does a Provincial Nominee Program affect my Express Entry profile?

A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score, effectively guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw. Ensure your Express Entry profile is up-to-date and includes your nomination details.

Provincial Nominee Programs that use the Express Entry system

Several provinces have streams aligned with Express Entry, such as:

Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream
Alberta Express Entry Stream
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities
Saskatchewan Express Entry
Manitoba Express Entry Pathway

Each has specific criteria. Research provinces that align with your skills and experience.

FAQs

Will Express Entry close?

Express Entry is a permanent feature of Canada’s immigration system and remains open year-round for profile submissions. It is unlikely to close in the foreseeable future.

Is Express Entry the same as permanent residency?

Express Entry is a system used to manage applications for permanent residence. Successfully navigating the Express Entry process leads to permanent residency status.

What is an Express Entry draw?

An Express Entry draw is a selection process where IRCC invites top-ranking candidates from the pool to apply for permanent residence based on their CRS scores.

When are Express Entry draws?

Draws typically occur every two weeks, but the schedule is not fixed. It's important to stay updated through reliable sources.

What type of draws are usually held?

All-Program Draws: Candidates from any program are eligible.
Program-Specific Draws: Target specific programs like CEC or FSTP.
Category-Based Draws: Focus on candidates with specific attributes (e.g., French proficiency).

What is an Express Entry profile number?

Upon submitting your profile, you receive a unique Express Entry profile number (starting with "E") used for reference in communications and applications.

Why is the Express Entry login not working?

Possible reasons include:

System Maintenance: IRCC website updates.
Browser Issues: Clear cache or try a different browser.
Incorrect Credentials: Verify username and password.

If issues persist, contact technical support.

Can I apply for Express Entry without work experience?

No, you must have at least one year of skilled work experience to be eligible for Express Entry.

Express Entry news

Stay updated with the latest Express Entry news by subscribing to VisaVio’s newsletter or visiting our website regularly.

Why is my Express Entry application taking so long?

Delays can occur due to:

High Volume of Applications
Incomplete Documentation
Security or Medical Clearance Delays

Ensure your application is complete and monitor communications from IRCC.

What is the maximum age for Express Entry?

There is no maximum age, but candidates aged 45 and above receive zero points for age. Strong qualifications in other areas can compensate.

Can I apply to Express Entry twice?

You cannot have multiple profiles at the same time, but you can:

Reapply After Expiration: Submit a new profile if the previous one expires.
Spouse as Principal Applicant: Your spouse can create a profile if eligible.

How to fix mistakes in your Express Entry Profile

If you have not received an ITA:

Log Into Your Account
Select “Update Form”
Make Corrections
Save and Exit
Resubmit Your Profile

If you have received an ITA, corrections are limited to certain circumstances. Be cautious and seek advice if necessary.

Free online Express Entry assessment

Determine your eligibility and receive personalized guidance by completing VisaVio’s Free Online Express Entry Assessment. Our experts will evaluate your profile and advise on the best pathway to Canadian immigration.

VisaVio is committed to assisting you throughout your journey to Canada. Our experienced professionals are ready to help you navigate the Express Entry system efficiently and effectively. For personalized assistance, contact us today.

Calculate your CRS score here: CRS Calculator
Start your assessment now: Free Online Express Entry Assessment

Your future in Canada starts with VisaVio.

Comprehensive Guide to Canada's Express Entry System