Express Entry is the main way skilled workers apply for permanent residence in Canada. It’s an online system that ranks candidates and invites the highest-scoring ones to apply.
Here’s a plain-language overview of how it works and what to focus on if you’re considering applying.
The three programs
Express Entry manages three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) — skilled workers with foreign experience
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) — those with Canadian work experience
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) — qualified skilled trades workers
How ranking works (CRS)
Candidates are scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) out of 1,200 points. Key factors include age, education, official language ability (English/French), Canadian and foreign work experience, and certain skill transferability combinations. Provincial nominations and qualifying job offers can add significant points.
The application process
- Confirm eligibility for one of the three programs
- Take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF/TCF)
- Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if educated outside Canada
- Create an Express Entry profile and receive a CRS score
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in a draw
- Submit a complete PR application within 60 days of receiving the ITA
Category-based draws
IRCC also holds targeted draws for candidates with specific work experience or strong French. Recent categories have included healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, agriculture, and French-language proficiency.
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