Express Entry

Express Entry is an electronic application management system. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched it on January 1, 2015, which replaced the former first-come, first-served system of application for processing permanent residence applications under skilled immigration subclasses. Therefore, applicants cannot file applications under Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), or Canada Experience Class (CEC) directly. Permanent Residence applications under these subclasses are processed as part of Express Entry application system.

In order to qualify for immigration to Canada, application is filed based on language ability i.e., proficiency in English or French, work experience, education, age and adaptability.

Express Entry Process

Step 1: Submit your file for expression of interest. Validity period for Express Entry profile is 12 months form the date of opening. Applicants who meet the criteria are entered into the pool of candidates.

Step 2: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will rank candidates on a point based system called Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and will pick suitable applicants every 2-3 weeks based on Canadian occupational demand. Highest ranking candidates who meet the criteria for each round of invitations will be given 60 days to file an application for permanent residence. Applicants must submit all the documents with the application within the 60 day timeline as these is no extension allowed. Applicants who meets all the criteria and submits application within the given time will be granted Permanent Residence.

In order to qualify under CRS, applicants earn points out of 1,200 based on their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and factors, such as job offer or a nomination by a province or territory. The breakdown of points is not the same as that required for FSW of FST programs. Instead, as candidates progress in the pre-screening process, they are given score and ranked in the Express Entry pool. 

It is important that you file an application in a manner that result in a success and receive permanent residency. In order to make an application a success, individuals have to have a proper understanding of immigration requirements. Incorrect submissions can result in refusal of the application and can also result in misrepresentation leading to serious consequences.