Canada uses a points-based system called Express Entry to rank immigration applications. Applicants with the highest scores are selected from the pool of candidates and invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada. If you are a skilled immigrant who wants to immigrate to Canada, Express Entry may be a great option for you.
To find out your score, check out our free Express Entry Points Calculator.
In the meantime, here is what you need to know about the eligibility criteria and steps in the Express Entry program.
Are you eligible for Express Entry?
There are three immigration programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program, for skilled workers with foreign work experience;
- Canadian Experience Class, for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience; and
- Federal Skilled Trades Program, for skilled workers qualified in a skilled trade.
Each of the three programs has different requirements. Eligibility depends on factors like your age, nationality, language ability, family members, education, work experience, and job offer. Immigration Canada has a free questionnaire if you want to see the programs for which you may be eligible.
How do you check your Express Entry score?
Immigration Canada ranks Express Entry applicants according to its Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Applicants with the highest number of CRS points get an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
The CRS is based on several factors, including age, level of education, skill transferability, language ability, and work experience. Each factor is assigned a certain number of points, up to a maximum. Immigration Canada has a detailed list of the maximum points per factor for Express Entry candidates.
Your score is based on your unique circumstances, and the circumstances of your spouse or common-law partner if they will be coming with you to Canada. If you want to check your score, use our Express Entry Points Calculator. Once you have calculated your score, contact Invicta Law Corporation to schedule a free assessment to discuss your eligibility to enter the Express Entry pool.
What are the next steps for Express Entry?
If you are eligible for one or more of the Express Entry programs, you can submit your profile online. Immigration Canada will place your profile in the Express Entry pool and apply a CRS score. Applicants with the highest CRS scores will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence. The invitation to apply is only valid for 60 days, so we recommend that you have the necessary documents and information ready in advance. Reach out to our experienced immigration lawyers to find out what documents you will need, or for help preparing your immigration application.
