Express Entry
Express Entry (EE) is a robust and efficient online immigration application system introduced by the Canadian government. This system is designed to facilitate the immigration process for skilled individuals who wish to become permanent residents of Canada.
Express Entry has revolutionized the way Canada selects candidates for its economic immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
Overview & Key Components of Express Entry:
Profile Submission:
To get started with Express Entry, individuals create an online profile that details their skills, work experience, education, language proficiency, and other qualifications. The profile is a critical step as it serves as an initial assessment of a candidate's eligibility for various Canadian immigration programs.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):
The CRS is a points-based system used to rank candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other adaptability factors. Candidates are awarded points for each criterion, and the highest-scoring candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency during periodic draws.
Invitations to Apply (ITAs):
Periodically, the Canadian government conducts draws from the Express Entry pool. Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive ITAs to apply for permanent residency. Those who receive ITAs have a limited timeframe to submit a complete application
Selection of Programs:
Express Entry is used to select candidates for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and certain Provincial Nominee Programs. Candidates must indicate their interest in these programs within their profile.
Express Entry Draws:
The government conducts regular draws from the pool of candidates in the Express Entry system. The cutoff CRS score for each draw can vary depending on the number of candidates in the pool and the government's immigration targets.
Permanent Residency Application:
Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have a specific timeframe to submit a complete permanent residency application. This application includes various documents, such as police clearances, medical exams, proof of funds, and other required information.
Processing Times:
Express Entry is known for its efficiency, with faster processing times compared to traditional immigration routes. Typically, the entire process, from profile submission to permanent residency, can take around six to eight months.
Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
Many Canadian provinces and territories have their own immigration programs, known as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Express Entry candidates can also be nominated by a province, which significantly boosts their CRS score, making them more likely to receive an ITA.
In summary, Express Entry is a streamlined and merit-based immigration system that allows skilled individuals from around the world to compete for an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency. It offers a fair and efficient way for Canada to select the best-suited candidates to contribute to the country's economic growth and development. It has become a popular choice for those seeking a pathway to call Canada their new home.