Express Entry System
Immigrating to Canada is an exciting prospect, and the Express Entry system is your fastest route to making this dream a reality. But how does it work? Is it the right path for you? Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Express Entry system, a pivotal player in Canada’s immigration landscape.
What is the Express Entry System?
Introduced in 2015, the Express Entry system is a competitive and efficient way for skilled workers to gain permanent residency in Canada. Managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), it encompasses three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled workers in a specific trade.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with Canadian work experience.
Candidates are evaluated based on criteria such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. High-scoring candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Key Features of the Express Entry System
Category-Based Express Entry Draws
In category-based draws, IRCC invites candidates eligible for specific categories to meet Canada’s economic objectives. Even if you fall under a targeted category, you still need to meet the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to receive an ITA.
How the Express Entry System Works
The Express Entry process is straightforward and consists of two major stages:
Expressing Interest: Eligible candidates submit an online profile expressing their interest in obtaining Canadian permanent resident status.
Receiving an ITA: The highest-ranking candidates in the pool are invited to apply for permanent residence.
There are three types of Express Entry draws:
General Rounds of Invitation: Invite candidates with the highest CRS scores, regardless of the program.
Program-Specific Rounds of Invitation: Targets candidates eligible for a specific Express Entry program.
Category-Based Rounds of Invitation: Focuses on candidates eligible for specific categories designated by IRCC.
Steps to Apply through the Express Entry System
Follow these steps to submit your Express Entry profile and obtain permanent residence:
Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for one of the federal economic immigration programs.
Complete Language Testing and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Obtain necessary scores and assessments.
Submit Your Profile on the IRCC Website: Create and submit your online profile.
Receive an ITA: Wait for an invitation from IRCC to apply for permanent residence.
Submit Your Application for Permanent Residence (APR): Provide necessary documents, fees, medical exams, and police certificates.
Provide Biometrics: When requested by IRCC.
Await Final Decision: IRCC aims to process applications within six months. Upon approval, you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
Benefits and Challenges of the Express Entry System
Advantages
Speed: Fast processing times, with applications typically processed within six months.
Efficiency: Streamlined process compared to previous systems.
Economic Alignment: Targets immigrants who can contribute to Canada’s economy.
Costs Involved in the Express Entry System
While submitting an Express Entry profile is free, there are associated costs:
- Before Submission: Fees for language tests, ECAs, document translation, and possibly hiring an immigration consultant.
- After Receiving an ITA: Government fees for processing, medical exams, police checks, and biometrics fees. Current government fees are listed on the IRCC website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the Points System for Express Entry?
- Before Entering the Pool: FSW applicants need a minimum of 67 points out of 100. FST and CEC applicants are not subject to this requirement.
- In the Pool: CRS scores determine rankings, with varying cut-off thresholds.
Q2. What are the Costs of the Express Entry System?
No fee for submitting the profile, but costs for ECA, language tests, police clearance, medical exams, and government fees apply.
Q3. How Long Does the Express Entry Process Take?
It usually takes six months from receiving an ITA to processing the application, depending on various factors.
Q4. What is the Difference Between Express Entry and the PNP?
Express Entry is a federal system, while Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are managed by provinces. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a CRS score, boosting chances for an ITA.
Q5. Can I Have Simultaneous Express Entry and PNP Profiles?
Yes, maintaining both profiles can increase your chances, with PNP nominations reinforcing your Express Entry profile.
The Express Entry system is a robust pathway to Canadian permanent residency, offering a swift and efficient route for skilled workers. By understanding the process, preparing a strong profile, and staying informed, you can enhance your chances of success. Ready to embark on your Canadian journey? Contact ImmigCanada today for expert guidance through the Express Entry system.
