Launched in 2015, the program streamlines the application process and allows the Canadian government to control applications. Canada Immigration Express Entry program is one of the most popular channels for skilled professionals seeking permanent residence in Canada.
All you need to know about the Express Entry system.
1. Understanding the Express Entry System
The Express Entry system operates on a points-based system known as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Candidates are assessed on age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. Each candidate is given a score, and those with higher scores are more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
2. Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Express Entry, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria for one of the immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program: Requires a minimum of one year of continuous full-time work experience in a skilled occupation.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program: Candidates must have at least two years of work experience in a skilled trade, a job offer, or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.
- Canadian Experience Class: This program is designed for individuals with at least one year of work experience in Canada in a skilled occupation.
3. Creating an Express Entry Profile
The first step in the Express Entry process is to create an online profile. Candidates must provide information about their skills, work experience, language abilities, and education.
4. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The CRS is pivotal in determining a candidate’s rank within the Express Entry pool. Points are awarded based on various factors:
- Core/Human Capital Factors: Age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors: Education, language skills, and Canadian work experience of an accompanying partner.
- Skill Transferability Factors: Combination of education and work experience.
- Additional Points: Factors like a job offer, provincial nomination, or Canadian education can provide additional points.
5. Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
The Canadian government conducts regular draws from the Express Entry pool, inviting candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency. The frequency of these draws can vary, and the minimum CRS score required for an ITA can change based on the number of candidates in the pool and the immigration targets.
6. Submitting a Permanent Residency Application
Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency with supporting documents such as proof of work experience, educational credentials, language test results, and medical examinations.
7. Processing Times and Fees
Processing times for Express Entry applications can vary but generally take around six months from the date of submission. Applicants should also be prepared to pay processing fees, which include the application fee and biometric fees.
8. Post-Application Steps
If the application is approved, candidates will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa, if applicable.
With its strong economy, high quality of life, and welcoming atmosphere, Canada continues to be a top choice for immigrants from around the world.
Canada’s Express Entry system is an efficient and effective way for skilled workers to gain permanent residency in the country. Understanding the application process allows candidates to better prepare themselves for a successful immigration journey.
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