Express Entry - Themillenniumimmigration

Express Entry: Immigrate to Canada

Express Entry is Canada's application management system for three immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP); Canadian Experience Class (CEC); and, Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Eligible candidates receive a score based on criteria such as their age, education, work experience, and language skills. The Canadian government routinely holds draws inviting the highest-scoring candidates to apply for permanent residence.

Express Entry Overview

What is Express Entry?
How does Express Entry work?
What are targeted Express Entry draws?
How long does the Express Entry process take?
What are the pros and cons of Express Entry?
How much does Express Entry cost?
Do I need to hire a lawyer for Express Entry?
Do I need a Canada job offer under Express Entry?
Do Express Entry immigrants find good jobs in Canada?
What sort of backgrounds do Express Entry immigrants have?
Can my family come with me under Express Entry?

Express Entry Eligibility and CRS Score

Am I eligible for Express Entry?
How can I become eligible for Express Entry?
What Canadian immigration options do I have?
How can I calculate my Express Entry CRS score?
Is my CRS score enough under Express Entry?
How can I improve my Express Entry CRS score?
Will the Express Entry CRS score go down?
Should I enter the Express Entry pool if I have a low CRS?
Is my language test CLB level good enough for Express Entry?
What is the difference between Express Entry and the PNP?
What makes a job offer valid under Express Entry?
Which Express Entry job offers are exempt from requiring an LMIA?
I am already working in Canada. Does this count as a job offer?
What are the best ways to increase my Express Entry score?
Is 440/450/460/470 a good CRS score?

Submitting an Express Entry Profile

What do I need to submit my Express Entry profile?
How can I find out my NOC code for Express Entry?
Will IRCC keep my Express Entry profile after one year?
Can I update my Express Entry profile after submitting it?
What should I do if I have maintained (implied) status in Canada?
How can I complete a language test for Express Entry?
Can I combine my language test scores for Express Entry?
How can I obtain an ECA for Express Entry?
Do I need to include my proof of settlement funds in my Express Entry profile?
How can I look for a job in Canada after submitting my Express Entry profile?
I was previously ineligible but now I am eligible for Express Entry. What should I do?
What do I need to do if I get an ITA for permanent residence?

Learn More on Express Entry

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Website
THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Forum
THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Tools and Resources
About THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION

Express Entry Overview

1. What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an electronic system used to manage the applications of skilled workers who wish to become permanent residents of Canada. Express Entry manages three programs:

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

Once an interested candidate submits an online profile, the federal government determines if the candidate is eligible for a program managed by Express Entry. Eligible candidates are accepted into the Express Entry pool and are ranked according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS is a points-based system used by the government to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. The CRS score is calculated based on a candidate’s age, education, work experience, language skills, as well as other factors.

The Canadian government then selects the highest-scoring candidates from the Express Entry pool and provides them with an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. In addition, Canada has specific categories where certain candidates may be eligible to receive ITAs through category-based selection.

2. How does Express Entry work?

Express Entry is straightforward and consists of two major stages. In the first stage, eligible candidates express their interest in obtaining Canadian permanent resident status to the government. In the second stage, the Canadian government conducts rounds of invitations (also known as “draws”) to invite the highest-scoring candidates to immigrate to Canada.

Express Entry features three different draw types:

General rounds of invitation: IRCC invites those with the highest-ranking CRS scores to apply for permanent residence.
Program-specific rounds of invitation: IRCC invites candidates with the highest-ranking CRS scores who qualify for a specific Express Entry program.
Category-based rounds of invitation: IRCC invites candidates with the highest-ranking CRS scores who meet specific categories designated by IRCC to support certain economic goals.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to submit your Express Entry profile and obtain a permanent residence visa to immigrate to Canada:

Step 1: Determine your eligibility for Express Entry by meeting the criteria of at least one of the Express Entry programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Step 2: Complete your language testing and, if needed, obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

Step 3: Submit your profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Step 4: Wait to see if you receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence from IRCC.

Step 5: If you receive an ITA, submit your completed Application for Permanent Residence (APR) to IRCC and pay the applicable fees within the specified deadline. You’ll need to include your medical exam and police certificates at this stage. IRCC will then provide you with an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR).

Step 6: Submit your biometrics once requested by IRCC.

Step 7: Wait for IRCC to make a final decision on your APR. IRCC aims to finalize applications within six months or less. Once approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if required) to travel to Canada and complete your landing.

3. What are targeted Express Entry draws?

In category-based Express Entry draws, IRCC invites candidates eligible for specific categories established by Canada’s immigration minister to meet identified economic goals. Targeted draws complement other forms of Express Entry draws. While IRCC considers each candidate’s CRS score in these draws, candidates must still meet the minimum CRS score to have a chance of receiving an ITA.

4. How long does the Express Entry process take?

An Express Entry profile is valid for up to one year. Candidates receiving an ITA can expect the Canadian government to process their permanent residence applications within six months. The processing time is measured from the receipt of a complete application to the final decision. If a candidate does not receive an ITA within one year, they can re-submit their profile if still eligible.

5. What are the pros and cons of Express Entry?

There are various strengths and limitations to Express Entry, but the pros generally outweigh the cons.

Inspired by New Zealand and Australia, Canada launched Express Entry in 2015 to enhance the processing of skilled worker applications and improve the candidate experience. Previously, Canada operated a first-come, first-served system, resulting in lengthy wait times for candidates.

Express Entry allows Canada to issue permanent resident visas to successful candidates much more quickly—within six months compared to six years previously. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is based on extensive government research identifying characteristics that help immigrants succeed in Canada. Those who are young to middle-aged, highly educated, have relevant work experience, and possess strong English and/or French skills tend to do well in the Canadian job market. Research since 2015 indicates that Express Entry immigrants perform at a high level economically.

The primary limitation is that Express Entry does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residence, as only candidates with the highest CRS scores have that opportunity. However, regular Express Entry draws offer multiple chances to receive an ITA. Candidates can enhance their CRS scores by obtaining a Canadian job offer, a provincial nomination, studying in Canada, gaining additional work experience, or improving their language test scores. Canada also offers over 100 different skilled worker immigration pathways.

6. How much does Express Entry cost?

Submitting an Express Entry profile to the government pool is free. However, candidates may incur costs before submitting their profile, such as:

Language testing fees through approved organizations
Educational Credential Assessment fees
Translation fees for documents into English or French
Fees for hiring an immigration professional (e.g., a law firm)

Government fees and other costs after receiving an ITA include:

Application processing fees ($950) and the right of permanent residence fee ($575) totaling $1,525.
For a spouse or partner: processing fee ($950) and right of permanent residence fee ($575) totaling $1,525.
For each dependent child: $260.

7. Do I need to hire a lawyer for Express Entry?

While hiring a lawyer is not required, it can be beneficial. An experienced and trustworthy Canadian immigration lawyer can help maximize your chances of success in Express Entry for a reasonable fee. They can guide you in securing the maximum CRS points and assist throughout the process, from submitting your profile to preparing your permanent residence application after receiving an ITA. The Millennium Immigration is authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to represent candidates in the Express Entry process and has over 45 years of experience supporting skilled workers in immigrating to Canada.

8. Do I need a job offer under Express Entry?

No, a job offer is not necessary for success in Express Entry. While having one can increase your CRS score—by either 50 or 200 points, depending on the offer—it is not a requirement.

9. Do Express Entry immigrants find good jobs in Canada?

Yes. A 2020 study by IRCC indicates that Express Entry immigrants are quite successful in Canada’s job market due to their desirable human capital characteristics. They tend to earn higher salaries than average Canadians and have high employment rates with low unemployment rates. As Canada faces an aging workforce and low birth rates, Express Entry immigrants are expected to remain in demand.

10. What sorts of backgrounds do Express Entry immigrants have?

Canada welcomes immigrants through Express Entry from over 100 countries. Since implementing a points system for skilled workers in 1967, Canada evaluates candidates based on their ability to integrate into the job market rather than their country of origin. The CRS assesses candidates on factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience. Consequently, Canada attracts a diverse array of talented individuals each year. IRCC produces an annual report on Express Entry immigrants, detailing their backgrounds.

11. Can my family come with me under Express Entry?

Yes. You can include your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children in your application. If successful, your accompanying family members will also receive permanent residence. Dependent children are defined as:

Individuals under 22 years old who are not spouses or common-law partners.
Individuals 22 or older who relied on their parents for financial support before age 22 and cannot support themselves due to a physical or mental health condition.

Express Entry Eligibility and CRS Score

1. Am I eligible for Express Entry?

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet the criteria of at least one of the following federal economic immigration programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program: The FSWP is Canada’s primary economic immigration pathway. The minimum requirements include at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent paid work experience in the past 10 years in a skilled occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER category 0, 1, 2 or 3; validated intermediate or better language ability in English or French; for candidates educated outside of Canada, an educational credential (certificate, diploma, or degree) and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report. In addition to meeting the FSWP’s minimum work, language ability, and education requirements, candidates must also obtain at least 67 points under its points grid.

Canadian Experience Class: The CEC provides international students and foreign workers who have Canadian experience with the opportunity to obtain permanent residence. Candidates must have obtained at least one year of skilled, professional, or technical work experience in Canada within 3 years of the application date and also meet language proficiency criteria.

Federal Skilled Trades Program: The FSTP is available to candidates who want to become permanent residents on the basis of qualifying for a skilled trade. Eligibility criteria include having a minimum of 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the 5-year period of submitting an application; meet the job requirements of the skilled trade; have a full-time job offer in Canada for a period of at least 1 year or possess a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade that has been provided by an official Canadian authority; and meet language proficiency criteria.

2. How can I become eligible for Express Entry?

To become eligible for Express Entry, you have several options. The first step is to identify the reasons for your current ineligibility. For example, you may not qualify under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) due to unmet requirements in work experience, language ability, or education. Addressing these issues is essential to submitting a successful Express Entry profile.

Another key approach is to pursue an education pathway leading to Canadian permanent residence. For instance, to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), you need at least one year of eligible Canadian work experience within the last three years, along with meeting the minimum language proficiency requirements. By studying in Canada and subsequently gaining work experience, you can become eligible for the CEC and, in turn, Express Entry. This route also offers the added benefit of earning more Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points due to your Canadian education and work experience.

If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria for Express Entry, Canada has over 100 different skilled worker immigration streams available.

3. What Canadian immigration options do I have?

Canada offers more than 100 immigration streams for skilled workers seeking permanent resident visas. You can explore multiple options simultaneously:

Express Entry: Most skilled worker immigrants come to Canada through Express Entry.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This is the second primary pathway for skilled workers in Canada.
Quebec: The province of Quebec has its own immigration system to recruit skilled workers.
Other Federal Immigration Programs: Besides Express Entry, IRCC provides various skilled worker immigration pathways, including options for moving to Canada’s Atlantic provinces, rural and northern communities, working as a caregiver, entering the agri-food sector, starting a business, or becoming self-employed.
Pursue a Study Pathway: Studying in Canada is a significant stepping stone toward obtaining a permanent resident visa through these immigration options.
Work in Canada: If you already have a job offer, you can start your immigration journey on a work permit and then transition to permanent residency through the above options.

4. How can I calculate my Express Entry CRS score?

TheMillenniumImmigration.com offers a free tool to help you calculate your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

5. Is my CRS score enough under Express Entry?

The best way to gauge the competitiveness of your CRS score is by reviewing the most recent Express Entry results. If your score is currently below the recent cut-off requirements, don’t be discouraged. CRS score thresholds can change with each draw, often fluctuating significantly.

If your CRS score is slightly below recent cut-offs, you might wait patiently in hopes that future draws will include candidates with your score. There are also ways to improve your CRS score.

For those with a significantly lower CRS score, remember that being in the Express Entry pool opens the door to provincial nominations, which can guarantee an invitation to apply (ITA). In the meantime, consider obtaining a job offer in Canada, improving your CRS score, or exploring other immigration pathways.

6. How can I improve my Express Entry CRS score?

Here are some ways to enhance your Express Entry CRS score:

Ensure you claim all eligible CRS points.
Improve your language test score.
Have your spouse as the principal applicant.
Obtain more education.
Gain more work experience.
Study and work in Canada.

For a more detailed explanation of how to boost your CRS score, check our resources.

7. Will the Express Entry CRS score go down?

No one, including IRCC, can predict whether CRS cut-off scores will rise or fall since Express Entry is a dynamic system. The distribution of scores among candidates is unpredictable. When many candidates have high CRS scores, cut-offs tend to be higher, and vice versa.

If you’re eligible for Express Entry, entering the pool is generally advantageous, regardless of your current CRS score. It’s free to enter (beyond costs for language testing and an Educational Credential Assessment), so there’s little risk in trying.

8. Should I enter the Express Entry pool if I have a low CRS?

Yes, entering the Express Entry pool is beneficial, even with a low CRS score:

It’s free to enter, aside from costs for your language test and ECA—expenses you’ll likely incur for most Canadian immigration applications.
CRS cut-off scores fluctuate unpredictably, so your score might eventually be sufficient for an ITA.
While in the pool, you can work on improving your CRS score by retaking language tests, gaining more work experience, or pursuing further education.
You might receive an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination, which would significantly boost your score.
While in the pool, you could also receive a job offer, potentially increasing your CRS score enough to secure an ITA.
You can apply to other Canadian immigration programs while in the Express Entry pool.

9. Is my language test CLB level good enough for Express Entry?

To determine if your CLB level is sufficient for Express Entry, consider two factors: eligibility for an Express Entry program and competitiveness of your CRS score.

First, ensure your CLB level meets the requirements for one of the three Express Entry programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program: Minimum CLB 7 for all four language abilities.
Canadian Experience Class: Minimum CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 or 1; minimum CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2 or 3.
Federal Skilled Trades Program: Minimum CLB 5 for speaking and listening; CLB 4 for reading and writing.

Second, aim for the highest possible CLB level on your language exam. If you’re a single Express Entry candidate, you could secure up to 310 CRS points from language tests in both English and French. Prepare thoroughly for the test to achieve the best CLB level you can, and feel free to retake the test until you achieve a satisfactory score.

10. What is the difference between Express Entry and the PNP?

In Canada, both the federal government and provinces/territories operate their own immigration programs. The federal government ultimately decides on permanent residency applications.

Express Entry manages three of the federal economic immigration programs. The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces and territories to nominate candidates who meet regional economic needs. Candidates with a provincial nomination receive an additional 600 points in the CRS, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.

Even if you initially lack a high CRS score, obtaining a provincial nomination can boost your score and make you eligible for an ITA in subsequent draws.

11. What makes a job offer valid under Express Entry?

According to IRCC, a valid job offer generally meets the following criteria:

Full-time and not seasonal.
At least one year in duration.
A skilled position under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Recent (within the last year).
Not from an embassy, consulate, or high commission.

The job offer must be in writing and outline duties, pay, and employment conditions.

Many job offers require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), although some positions may be exempt. If an LMIA is needed, your employer must apply through Employment and Social Development Canada/Service Canada.

Valid job offers can add 50 or 200 additional CRS points, depending on the NOC category.

12. Which Express Entry job offers are exempt from requiring an LMIA?

An LMIA is not needed if:

You have worked full-time for the employer on your work permit for at least one year (or part-time equivalent).
The job offer meets other validity requirements (e.g., falls under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3).
You hold a work permit exempt from an LMIA under agreements like CUSMA, federal-provincial agreements, or “Canadian interests” categories.

If you’re in skilled trades, you can receive job offers from up to two employers and must work for both.

13. I am already working in Canada. Does this count as a job offer?

No, a work permit itself does not constitute a job offer. A valid job offer requires a written full-time offer from your employer for a minimum of one year if you receive permanent residence approval. Additionally, an LMIA must be obtained if required, or the job must qualify for an LMIA exemption.

14. What are the best ways to increase my Express Entry score?

The most effective way to boost your CRS score is to secure a provincial nomination, which grants an additional 600 points. You can apply directly to a PNP stream aligned with Express Entry or wait for an invitation from a province while in the pool.

You can also earn 50 or 200 extra CRS points with a valid job offer.

Additionally, achieving the highest possible score on your English or French tests is crucial, as language proficiency is a major CRS factor.

15. Is 440/450/460/470 a good CRS score?

The Express Entry CRS cut-off score is dynamic and varies from draw to draw. Always focus on maximizing your CRS score by claiming all eligible points for education, work experience, language skills, and other factors. If your current score feels low, identify steps to improve it, such as retaking your language test or gaining more work experience and education. You can also seek a provincial nomination or valid job offer. For more tips on improving your CRS score, visit TheMillenniumImmigration.com.

Submitting an Express Entry Profile

1. What do I need to submit my Express Entry profile?

When submitting your Express Entry profile, IRCC will ask you for information from the following documents:

your passport or travel document
language test results
proof of Canadian education or your educational credential assessment (ECA) report
proof of funds
provincial nomination (if you have one)
written job offer from an employer in Canada (if you have one)

2. How can I find out my NOC code for Express Entry?

You can identify your National Occupational Classification (NOC) code by visiting the official NOC website.

3. Will IRCC keep my profile after one year?

No, your profile expires after one year. If you want to remain in the Express Entry pool, you’ll need to wait for your profile to expire and then submit a new one on IRCC’s website. It’s a good idea to take screenshots of your expired profile to make re-submission easier.

4. Can I update my Express Entry profile after submitting it?

Yes, as long as your profile is deemed eligible, you can update it after submission.

5. What should I do if I have maintained status (previously known as “implied status”) in Canada?

IRCC provides detailed instructions on its website regarding how to answer questions if you have maintained status (formerly “implied status”).

6. How can I complete a language test for Express Entry?

You need to take a language test authorized by IRCC for Express Entry. Your language test score is valid for two years. Your options include:

English:
- CELPIP General
- IELTS General Training
- PTE Core
French:
- TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
- TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français

7. Can I combine my language test scores for Express Entry?

No, you cannot combine scores from different language tests. Each test evaluates you across four abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You can only submit results from one test, but you can choose your best result. Remember, your language test score is valid for two years. If needed, you can enter the Express Entry pool, retake the test to achieve your desired score, and then update your profile to increase your CRS score.

8. How can I obtain an ECA for Express Entry?

You must obtain your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an organization designated by IRCC. Your options include:

World Education Services
Comparative Education Service – University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
International Credential Assessment Service of Canada
International Qualifications Assessment Service
International Credential Evaluation Service
Medical Council of Canada (for Doctors)
Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (for Pharmacists)

9. Do I need to include proof of settlement funds in my Express Entry profile?

Yes, you must include the amount of money you have available to settle in Canada in your Express Entry profile. This is to demonstrate your ability to financially support yourself and any family members accompanying you.

You only need to meet the proof of settlement funds requirement if you receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Federal Skilled Trades Program, unless you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. Candidates under the Canadian Experience Class do not need to meet this requirement.

If you qualify for more than one program, you cannot choose which program IRCC will issue your invitation under.

10. How can I look for a job in Canada after submitting my Express Entry profile?

While in the Express Entry pool, you can search for jobs using the Canadian government’s Job Bank, apply directly to employers, utilize private job boards, and network through social media. Be cautious of scammers asking for fees for job offers, as this is illegal in Canada. For tips on avoiding job offer scams, please refer to our resources.

11. I was previously ineligible but am now eligible for Express Entry. What should I do?

If your eligibility has changed, you need to create and submit a new profile on IRCC’s website, as ineligible profiles are no longer valid and cannot be modified.

12. What do I need to do if I get an ITA for permanent residence?

Upon receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence, you’ll need to provide IRCC with the requested documents and pay any necessary fees. Required documents may include:

Valid passport
Birth certificate
Language test results
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Police clearance certificates
Medical examinations
And more

Learn More on Express Entry

1. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Website

IRCC’s website offers extensive information on Express Entry, including how the process works, required documents, steps to submit your Express Entry profile, obtaining a permanent resident visa if successful, and travel information for Canada.

2. THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Forum

THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Forum is the largest public Canadian immigration discussion board in the world. Here, you can learn from fellow skilled worker candidates about navigating Express Entry. Popular topics in the Express Entry section of the forum include:

“Ray of hope” discussions: Candidates in the Express Entry pool share updates on the latest draw results and whether they have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
“AOR” discussions: Successful candidates who have received an “Acknowledgment of Receipt” (AOR) from IRCC share updates on their application processing.
Visa office and IRCC discussions: Candidates discuss the latest application processing developments at various visa and IRCC offices in Canada and worldwide.

3. THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Tools and Resources

THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION provides several tools and resources to assist you with the Express Entry process, including:

Assessment Form: Determine your eligibility for Express Entry.
CRS Calculator: Calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Improve Your CRS Score: Get advice on how to increase your CRS points.
Express Entry Results: Stay updated on CRS cut-off scores and the number of ITAs issued by IRCC.
Express Entry FAQs for Candidates: Find answers to over 40 common questions about Express Entry.
Express Entry FAQs for Employers: Get answers to frequent questions asked by employers.
Contact Cohen Immigration Law: Reach out to our Canadian immigration law firm with your questions about Express Entry.

4. About THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION

THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION leading Canadian immigration law firm with over 11 years of experience. The firm comprises more than 60 immigration lawyers, paralegals, and professionals dedicated to helping you immigrate to Canada.

THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION was established as the online presence of themillenniumimmigration.com. Since its launch in 2013, THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION has become one of the most trusted resources for Canadian immigration. If you’re looking to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry or another skilled worker pathway, start by completing a free THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION assessment form. If you’re eligible for Canadian immigration, a member of the THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION team will reach out to assist you.