Express Entry PR Pathway to Canada

Express Entry Explained

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for selecting skilled immigrants for permanent residence. It is a points-based application system that ranks eligible candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Invitations to apply (ITAs) are regularly issued to top-ranking candidates.

Express Entry is ideal for individuals who want to settle in Canada permanently and who meet eligibility under one of the federal economic immigration programs managed within the system.

Included Programs

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

Each program uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank applicants in the Express Entry pool.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Check eligibility
2. Take a language test and get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
3. Create an online profile
4. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
5. Submit full application within 60 days
6. Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) if approved

CRS Score Explained

• Age, education, language ability, and experience
• Spouse or partner factors
• Job offers, provincial nominations, and Canadian education or experience

The maximum CRS score is 1,200, with 600 bonus points for provincial nominations.

Types of Express Entry Draws

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) holds regular Express Entry draws. These include:

• General Draws: Open to all programs under Express Entry (FSWP, FSTP, CEC).
• Program-Specific Draws: Focused on one program such as the Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Trades Program.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws: Invite candidates who already have a provincial nomination (600 extra CRS points).
• Category-Based Draws: Introduced in 2023, these target specific occupational groups or skills such as:
  • Health care occupations
  • STEM professionals (science, technology, engineering, math)
  • Trade occupations (e.g., carpenters, plumbers)
  • Transport occupations (e.g., truck drivers)
  • French-language proficiency
  • Agriculture and agri-food

These targeted draws help Canada meet labor shortages and economic goals while giving niche applicants a better chance.

Tips to Improve

• Retake language tests
• Pursue additional education
• Gain more skilled work experience
• Apply for a provincial nomination
• Get a valid job offer with LMIA

Keep your profile updated as new achievements can improve your CRS score instantly.