Everything you need to know about Canada Express Entry
The Canadian Immigration Minister recently announced that “Express Entry draws” are resuming early this year , which means there are additional opportunities for permanent residency in Canada. Find out everything you need to know about Express Entry here, and how this recent announcement could help you live and work in Canada.
What is Express Entry, and who is it for?
Express Entry is an application process for skilled workers who would like to permanently live in Canada (i.e., gain permanent residency). You can find out whether you qualify as a skilled worker by filling out a quick online eligibility questionnaire (find out more on this below).
What is the Express Entry draw?
An “Express Entry draw” is used by the Canadian government to decide who receives an invitation to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. It selects the highest-ranking candidates from the applications received. How you rank as a candidate is based on a number of different factors.
Find out how your Express Entry application is ranked here.
With the Express Entry draws to be reopening soon, anyone who wants to apply for immigration in Canada should get their application in now, to be in with a chance of an invitation.
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What are the steps I need to take to qualify for Express Entry?
Step 1: Check your eligibility
See if you are eligible for Express Entry by filling out this eligibility questionnaire.
Step 2: Estimate your ranking for the Express Entry draw
To be invited to submit an Express Entry application, you need a specific score on the Comprehensive Ranking System. You can estimate your score here: CRS Tool: Estimate your ranking score .
Step 3: Book an IELTS language test & prepare your documents
If you haven’t yet taken an English language test, you should book an IELTS test right away as you will need proof of your results for the application. There is also some additional documentation you might need for the Express Entry application process. You can see these here: Documents for Express Entry .
Step 4: Create and submit a profile
Once you have everything you need for your application, you must create & submit “a profile” to see if it gets accepted to the Express Entry draw. You can create and submit your Express Entry profile here: Create Express Entry Profile .
Step 5: Await your invitation, then apply
Following submission of your profile, you await your invitation to apply for Express Entry. If you receive an invitation, you then have 60 days to apply. You can do that by clicking here: Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry .
Relocating to Canada through the Express Entry System is a structured process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Before you start, check if you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Step 2: Take a Language Test
- Choose a Test: Acceptable tests include IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program).
- Achieve Minimum Scores: Ensure you meet the minimum language proficiency scores required for your chosen program.
Step 3: Get Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Select a Designated Organization: Choose an organization approved by IRCC (e.g., WES, ICAS).
- Submit Your Documents: Send your educational documents for assessment.
- Receive ECA Report: This report will confirm that your education is equivalent to Canadian standards.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
- Online Profile: Go to the IRCC website and create an online profile.
- Provide Information: Fill in details about your age, education, work experience, language test results, and ECA report.
- Calculate CRS Score: Your profile will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information provided.
Step 5: Enter the Express Entry Pool
- Once your profile is complete, you will enter the Express Entry pool of candidates.
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Regular Draws: The Canadian government conducts regular draws from the pool.
- Check Your Rank: If your CRS score is above the cutoff for a draw, you will receive an ITA.
Step 7: Gather Required Documents
Once you receive an ITA, you must submit several documents, including:
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements showing sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents.
- Police Clearance Certificate: To prove you have no criminal record.
- Medical Exam Results: Complete a medical exam by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
- Employment Reference Letters: Letters from previous employers verifying your work experience.
Step 8: Submit Your Application
- Complete Application: Fill out the application forms provided in your ITA.
- Pay Fees: Pay the required processing fees for yourself and any dependents.
- Submit Application: Ensure all documents are submitted within the 60-day window after receiving the ITA.
Step 9: Wait for Processing
- Processing Time: The average processing time for Express Entry applications is about 6 months.
- Check Status: You can check the status of your application online.
Step 10: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- If your application is approved, you will receive a COPR and instructions on how to complete your landing in Canada.
Step 11: Prepare for Arrival
- Plan Your Move: Arrange travel and accommodation in Canada.
- Settle in Canada: Upon arrival, you can apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN), health care, and other services.
Conclusion
Following these steps will guide you through the Express Entry process. Ensure that you stay updated on any changes in immigration policies or requirements by regularly checking the IRCC website. Good luck with your relocation!
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