Express Entry is Canada’s online system for managing immigration applications from skilled workers. It covers three main programs: the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. If you’re aiming to become a permanent resident of Canada, this is the path to explore.
What is Canada Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s system to manage applications from skilled workers seeking permanent residence. It includes the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. If you’re eligible, you could also apply for a Provincial Nominee Program to boost your chances.
How to Apply to Express Entry Canada (Step-by-Step)
- Check Your Eligibility: Use the online tools to see if you qualify for any of the programs.
- Calculate Your CRS Score: Estimate your score using the CRS tool.
- Gather Documents: Get your language tests, work experience proof, and other required documents.
- Create Your Profile: Fill out the online profile to enter the pool of candidates.
- Receive an Invitation: If your score is high enough, you’ll get an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application within 60 days.
Express Entry Eligibility
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must qualify under one of these programs:
- Canadian Experience Class: For those with recent Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program: For workers with foreign or Canadian experience who meet education and other criteria.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program: For qualified tradespeople with a job offer or certificate of qualification.
Express Entry Requirements
You’ll need:
- Language test results (IELTS, TEF, etc.)
- Proof of work experience
- Educational credentials (with an Educational Credential Assessment if outside Canada)
- A valid passport
- Additional documents as per the program requirements
Canada Express Entry Fee
The fees for Express Entry are:
- Main applicant: $1,525 CAD (including the right of permanent residence fee)
- Spouse/partner: $1,525 CAD
- Dependent child: $260 CAD per child
You may also need to pay biometrics fees, which cover fingerprinting and a digital photo.
All Things About Score for Canada Express Entry
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores candidates based on:
- Core Factors: Age, education, language skills, and work experience.
- Spouse Factors: Your spouse’s education, language skills, and Canadian work experience.
- Skill Transferability: Combines education, foreign work experience, and Canadian work experience.
- Additional Points: For things like a provincial nomination, a job offer, or French language skills.
The maximum score is 1,200 points.
How to Catch Scores Canada Express Entry
To boost your CRS score:
- Get a Provincial Nomination: Worth 600 points.
- Improve Your Language Skills: Achieving Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 9 can significantly increase your score.
- Secure a Job Offer: Worth up to 200 points.
- Upgrade Your Education: More points for higher education levels, especially from a Canadian institution.
- Increase Work Experience: Canadian experience earns more points; update your profile regularly.
Understanding the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is at the heart of Canada’s Express Entry program. It’s how immigration authorities decide which candidates get Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. The system isn’t just about numbers; it’s designed to identify skilled workers who are most likely to succeed in Canada. Let’s break it down into simple terms.
What Is the CRS?
The CRS is a points-based system that scores your profile out of 1,200 points. Think of it like a big puzzle where every piece—your age, education, work experience, language skills—adds to the overall picture. The goal is to earn as many points as possible so you stand out from other candidates in the Express Entry pool.
The Four Key Factors
Core Human Capital
This is where the bulk of your points come from. It includes your:
- Age: Younger candidates earn more points because they have more years to contribute to the workforce. You’re in the sweet spot if you’re between 20 and 29.
- Education: Higher levels of education, especially degrees earned in Canada, score higher. If you’ve completed a master’s or PhD, that’s a big advantage.
- Language Skills: Your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English or French is crucial. Scoring a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 9 or higher can give you a significant boost.
- Work Experience: The longer you’ve worked, especially in skilled jobs, the more points you get. Canadian experience scores higher than foreign experience.
Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors
If you’re applying with a spouse or partner, their skills and experience can add extra points to your profile. Their education, language ability, and Canadian work experience all contribute.
Skill Transferability
This factor rewards combinations of skills. For example:
You’ll earn bonus points if you have a high language score and a post-secondary degree.
If you combine foreign work experience with strong language skills, you’ll also score higher.
Additional Factors
This is where you can really shine. Points are awarded for things like:
- A Provincial Nomination: Adds a whopping 600 points, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
- A Valid Job Offer: Scores up to 200 points.
- French Language Skills: Even if French isn’t your first language, a strong score on a French test can make a difference.
- Canadian Education: If you’ve studied in Canada, you’ll earn extra points for your degree or diploma.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Express Entry
If you’re trying to improve your chances of moving to Canada through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a game-changer. They’re like a secret weapon for boosting your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. But how do they work, and why are they such a big deal? Let’s break it down in plain terms.
What Are PNPs?
Canada is huge, and each province or territory has its own immigration needs. PNPs are special programs that let provinces pick people to help meet local economic and labor market demands. Think of it as provinces saying, “Hey, we need more skilled workers like you in our region, so let’s make it easier for you to come here.”
Some provinces focus on specific industries, like tech or healthcare, while others are looking for skilled tradespeople or people who have family connections in the area. If a province nominates you, it’s their way of telling the federal government, “We want this person to live and work here.”
How Do PNPs Work with Express Entry?
Most provinces align their PNPs with the Express Entry system. This is called an “enhanced PNP stream.” Here’s how it works:
- You create an Express Entry profile.
- Provinces review the pool of candidates and look for people who match their specific criteria.
- If you meet their needs, they may invite you to apply for a provincial nomination.
- If you get nominated, it’s like hitting the jackpot. A nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score. Considering the total CRS score is 1,200, that boost almost guarantees you’ll get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the next draw.
Types of PNP Streams
Every province has its unique streams. Here are a few examples:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Popular with tech workers and French-speaking professionals.
- British Columbia PNP (BCPNP): Great for tech talent, healthcare workers, and international graduates.
- Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Focuses on skilled workers with ties to Alberta or in-demand occupations.
- Manitoba PNP: Prioritizes people with family or work connections in Manitoba.
- Atlantic Provinces: These smaller provinces often look for workers in healthcare, trades, and other high-demand fields.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a PNP Nomination
If you want to be noticed by a province, here are some things you can do:
- Check Provincial Requirements: Each province has its own rules. Research what they’re looking for and see if you qualify.
- Express Interest: Some provinces let you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), showing you’re serious about moving there.
- Work in the Province: If you’re already working in a province, you might have a better shot at getting nominated.
- Study in Canada: Graduates from Canadian institutions often get priority in provincial programs.
Why PNPs Matter
PNPs are a lifeline for candidates with CRS scores that aren’t high enough to get an ITA on their own. They also allow provinces to fill gaps in their workforce, which helps keep local economies thriving.
Plus, moving to a province that actively wants you can make settling in easier—you’ll likely find job opportunities and community support right away.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Express Entry Application
Applying for Express Entry might seem straightforward, but small mistakes can create big problems. Whether it’s a simple typo or missing a key document, even a minor slip-up can hurt your chances of being invited to apply. The good news? These mistakes are avoidable. Let’s look at some of the most common ones and how you can steer clear of them.
Rushing Through the Eligibility Check
Before you even enter the Express Entry pool, you need to make sure you qualify for one of the three programs: the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Skipping this step or assuming you qualify can lead to wasted time and disappointment later.
How to Avoid It: Use the official online tools provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to check your eligibility. Be honest about your work experience, education, and language skills during this step.
Miscalculating or Misreporting Your CRS Score
Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score determines your position in the Express Entry pool. Some applicants miscalculate their scores or make errors when entering details about their education, language tests, or work experience.
How to Avoid It: Double-check everything when calculating your CRS score. If you’re unsure about certain sections, get professional advice. Mistakes here can misrepresent your profile, which might lead to rejection later.
Forgetting to Gather All Required Documents
One of the biggest pitfalls is not having the right documents ready when you create your profile or apply after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Missing proof of work experience, incomplete language test results, or outdated educational assessments can delay or derail your application.
How to Avoid It: Create a checklist of required documents before you start. Common items include:
Language test results (IELTS, TEF, etc.).
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees.
Proof of work experience, such as letters from employers.
Valid passport and any additional documents specific to your program.
Prepare these in advance so you’re not scrambling when deadlines approach.
Ignoring Expiry Dates on Key Documents
Some documents, like language test results or ECAs, have expiration dates. If you use an expired document when submitting your profile, your application may be refused—even if everything else is perfect.
How to Avoid It: Check the validity of all documents and plan ahead. If something is about to expire, renew it as soon as possible. Don’t risk submitting an application with outdated paperwork.
Providing Inaccurate Information
Whether intentional or not, providing incorrect details on your Express Entry profile is a serious issue. Misrepresentation can lead to rejection or even a five-year ban from reapplying.
How to Avoid It: Be truthful and precise in every section of your profile. If you’re unsure about how to report something, consult a professional or refer to IRCC’s guidelines.
Not Updating Your Profile
Life changes, and your profile should reflect that. Many candidates forget to update their profiles with new information, such as additional work experience, language test results, or a job offer.
How to Avoid It: Regularly log into your Express Entry account and update it with any changes. This ensures that your CRS score remains accurate and competitive.
Missing Deadlines
Deadlines in the Express Entry process are strict. After receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your application. Failing to meet this deadline means forfeiting your invitation, and you’ll have to wait for another chance.
How to Avoid It: Set reminders for important deadlines and start working on your application as soon as you receive an ITA. Don’t leave things until the last minute.
Overlooking Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Opportunities
Many candidates focus solely on improving their CRS score and overlook PNP options, which could fast-track their application. Missing out on a PNP nomination means missing a potential 600-point boost to your CRS score.
How to Avoid It: Research PNPs that align with your skills and experience. Even if your CRS score isn’t high, a PNP nomination can significantly increase your chances.
Express Entry vs. Other Canadian Immigration Pathways
Express Entry is one of the most well-known ways to immigrate to Canada, but it’s not the only option. Depending on your situation, other pathways might be a better fit—or could complement your Express Entry application.
What Makes Express Entry Unique?
The Express Entry system is designed for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents of Canada. It’s quick, competitive, and highly structured. Here are its standout features:
Points-Based System: Your profile is ranked against others using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). High scores get Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
Multiple Programs in One: Express Entry manages three programs—the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Each has specific eligibility requirements but operates under the same system.
Faster Processing: Express Entry applications are typically processed within six months after you submit all required documents.
It’s ideal for candidates who meet specific criteria like language proficiency, skilled work experience, and education credentials. But what if you don’t fit neatly into these categories? That’s where other immigration pathways come in.
Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship might be a better option if you have a family member who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
This program allows spouses, partners, dependent children, and sometimes parents or grandparents to be sponsored to live in Canada.
How It Compares to Express Entry:
No CRS Score Required: You don’t need to compete in a pool or worry about points.
Relationship-Based: Eligibility depends on your family ties, not your work or educational background.
Processing Times: While Express Entry is quicker, family sponsorship timelines can vary, often taking a year or more.
If you have strong family ties in Canada, this pathway could save you the stress of competing for a spot in the Express Entry pool.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs allow provinces to nominate immigrants who meet their specific economic needs. Many PNPs are linked to Express Entry, but there are also non-Express Entry streams.
How It Compares to Express Entry:
Provincial Focus: PNPs are tailored to specific provinces, whereas Express Entry covers all of Canada.
Lower CRS Scores: Even candidates with lower CRS scores can succeed if a province nominates them.
Flexibility: Some PNPs focus on in-demand jobs or connections to the province, which might not matter as much in Express Entry.
If you’re targeting a specific province, applying through a PNP—whether linked to Express Entry or not—might be your best bet.
Startup Visa Program
The Startup Visa program could open doors if you’re an entrepreneur with a strong business idea. This program is designed for innovative businesspeople who can create jobs for Canadians.
How It Compares to Express Entry:
Focus on Business: Your business plan and entrepreneurial potential are the key factors, not your CRS score.
Collaborative Process: You’ll need support from a designated organization, such as a venture capital fund or business incubator.
Specialized: This program is only suitable for those ready to launch a business in Canada.
Startup Visa applications can take longer to process, but it’s a unique pathway for entrepreneurs.
Refugee and Humanitarian Programs
Canada offers refugee and humanitarian programs for individuals fleeing persecution or unsafe conditions. These pathways are based on protection needs rather than skills or employment.
How It Compares to Express Entry:
Eligibility: It’s not based on work experience, education, or language skills.
Support-Based: Applications are often supported by sponsorship or government programs.
Different Focus: This isn’t about economic immigration but about offering safety and stability.
If you qualify for refugee status, this pathway is focused on protecting your rights and well-being.
Temporary Visas Leading to Permanent Residence
Some people start with temporary visas, such as work permits or study permits, and later transition to permanent residence through programs like Express Entry or PNPs.
How It Compares to Express Entry:
Step-by-Step Process: Temporary visas don’t guarantee permanent residence, but they can strengthen your application by adding Canadian experience.
Flexibility: Allows you to live and work in Canada while building your eligibility for programs like Express Entry.
Longer Path: Transitioning from temporary status to permanent residence often takes longer
Tips to Stand Out in the Express Entry Pool
If you’ve entered the Express Entry pool, you’ve already taken a significant step toward living in Canada. But with thousands of other candidates vying for the same spot, how do you make sure you stand out? Don’t worry—it’s not about luck. It’s about strategy and preparation.
Focus on Your Language Scores
Your language skills are one of the most impactful factors in your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. A higher Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level can dramatically increase your points.
Take the Test Seriously: Whether you’re taking the IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF, treat the language test as more than just a requirement. Prepare thoroughly by practicing speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Aim for CLB 9 or Higher: Scoring CLB 9 can unlock bonus points, especially when combined with your education or work experience. Even minor improvements in your score can make a big difference.
Don’t hesitate to retake the test if you didn’t get the score you wanted on your first attempt.
Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
A Provincial Nomination is one of the fastest ways to get an ITA. It adds a whopping 600 points to your CRS score, making you a top candidate in the pool.
Research Provinces: Each province has its own immigration priorities. Look for PNPs that align with your skills and experience.
Express Your Interest: Some provinces let you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) directly to show you’re serious about living and working there.
Don’t overlook this opportunity—being flexible about where you settle can pay off.
Gain More Work Experience
If you’re already working in a skilled job, keep building your work experience. Canadian work experience is especially valuable, but foreign work experience can also contribute to your CRS score.
- Highlight Skilled Work: Ensure the work you claim aligns with Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes for skilled jobs.
- Update Your Profile Regularly: As you gain more experience, add it to your Express Entry profile to reflect your growing qualifications.
Improve Your Education Credentials
Education is another big factor in your CRS score, especially if you’ve completed higher education in Canada.
- Pursue a Canadian Degree or Diploma: If you’re studying or considering studying in Canada, this can give you an edge.
- Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you studied outside Canada, ensure your qualifications are recognized by getting an ECA. Without it, you won’t earn any education points.
Secure a Job Offer
A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can earn you up to 200 CRS points. While finding a job from outside Canada can be challenging, it’s not impossible.
- Use Online Platforms: Websites like Job Bank and other job boards specifically connect employers with potential Express Entry candidates.
- Tailor Your Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job to increase your chances of standing out.
Take Advantage of Additional Points
There are several other ways to earn bonus points in the CRS system. For example:
- French Proficiency: Even if French isn’t your first language, achieving a strong score in a French language test like the TEF or TCF can earn you points.
- Siblings in Canada: If you have siblings who are permanent residents or citizens, you can earn extra points.
- Strong Ties to Canada: Studying or working in Canada can also make your profile more competitive.
Be Honest and Accurate
Finally, honesty is key. Misrepresenting your qualifications or credentials can lead to serious consequences, including being banned from applying for up to five years.
Double-Check Everything: Review your profile for errors or inconsistencies before submitting.
Provide Clear Documentation: Make sure all your claims are backed by proper paperwork, whether it’s proof of work experience, test scores, or education credentials.
How Job Offers Impact Your Canada Express Entry Application
A job offer can influence your Express Entry application, but the way it affects your score is about to change.
Until now, candidates who secured a valid job offer from a Canadian employer could earn extra points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), improving their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. However, starting in spring 2025, these additional points will be removed to prevent fraud and maintain fairness in the system.
What Counts as a Valid Job Offer?
A job offer isn’t just any employment opportunity—it needs to meet certain criteria in order to be considered valid in the Express Entry system. It must:
- Be in writing, specifying job duties, salary, and conditions.
- Be for a full-time, non-seasonal position that lasts at least one year.
- Be backed by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or be exempt from LMIA requirements.
The Upcoming Change
Currently, a valid job offer can boost your CRS score, making it easier to secure an ITA. But in 2025, Canada is removing these bonus points. This decision aims to reduce fraudulent job offers that some applicants use to artificially inflate their scores. The change applies to all new and existing Express Entry profiles, including candidates already working in Canada under temporary permits.
However, your points won’t be affected if you’ve already received an ITA or have an application in progress. This update is mainly for those still in the pool or planning to apply in the future.
What This Means for Express Entry Applicants
Although job offers won’t add extra points anymore, they can still help in other ways. A valid job offer can:
- Strengthen your case when applying under specific immigration programs, like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Provide employer support that may help with work permits if you need to stay employed while waiting for permanent residency.
- Show immigration officers that you have a stable opportunity in Canada.
With these changes, Express Entry candidates will need to rely more on other CRS factors, such as education, language proficiency, and work experience. If you were counting on a job offer to boost your score, it’s a good idea to look into improving your eligibility in other areas.
The Role of Work Experience in Express Entry Points Calculation
Work experience is a major factor in Canada’s Express Entry system. It affects both eligibility and ranking, making it important to understand how it’s scored. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assigns points based on various factors, and professional experience is one of the most significant.
Not all work experience counts. To qualify, it must fit within Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system under skill types 0 (management roles), A (professional jobs requiring a degree), or B (technical roles needing specialized training).
The job must also be paid continuously and at least one year in length in a full-time position or its part-time equivalent. Unpaid internships and volunteer roles don’t count, even if they match the skill level needed.
At least 1,560 work hours are required, which equals 30 hours per week for a full year. If a candidate works part-time, the system allows them to add up multiple part-time jobs until they reach the total hours. However, working more than 30 hours a week doesn’t offer any extra credit.
CRS points for work experience increase with more years of employment. However, Canadian experience is worth more than foreign experience. That means applicants who have worked in Canada for some time gain an advantage.
Many candidates start on a temporary work permit to gain local experience before entering the Express Entry pool. This is especially useful for those whose foreign experience alone doesn’t provide enough points.
Language ability plays a huge role in how work experience is scored. Higher English or French test results can increase the number of points given for work history. Those who already meet the minimum requirement should consider retaking the test to improve their scores.
Higher education can also strengthen an Express Entry profile. It not only adds points directly but can also improve job opportunities, increasing the chances of gaining Canadian work experience. Some applicants choose to earn additional certifications or degrees before applying to improve their chances.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) provide another way to increase CRS scores. Many provinces actively select candidates with certain work experience, especially in high-demand occupations. A provincial nomination adds a significant number of points, making it much easier to get an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Combining work experience with other strategies can make a big difference. Securing a job in Canada, improving language skills, obtaining higher education, and applying through a PNP can all help raise CRS scores.
Express Entry is a competitive system, and every point matters. Applicants who take the time to build their profiles strategically have a much better chance of receiving an ITA and achieving permanent residency.
French Language Proficiency and Its Benefits in Express Entry
Knowing French can give Express Entry candidates a real advantage. The system assigns points based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language ability. While English is the most commonly spoken language in Canada, French speakers receive extra benefits, including additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and access to special immigration pathways.
French proficiency can add up to 50 extra CRS points, which can make a big difference in the rankings. To qualify, a candidate must score at least level 7 in all four language skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) scale. The number of points awarded depends on the candidate’s English skills as well. If English test scores are at level 4 or lower, the candidate gets 25 extra points for their French. If English is at level 5 or higher, the bonus increases to 50 points.
Canada also holds Express Entry draws that specifically target French-speaking candidates. These draws increase the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Unlike general draws, which focus on overall CRS scores, these specialized rounds prioritize candidates who can help strengthen Francophone communities outside of Quebec.
To prove their French proficiency, candidates must take a government-approved test. Canada accepts the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada) and the Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada). These exams measure reading, writing, listening, and speaking ability. Test results must be valid at the time of application, meaning they cannot be more than two years old.
French language skills can also open the door to category-based Express Entry invitations. In 2023, for example, Canada introduced a system that invited candidates based on specific attributes rather than just CRS scores. French speakers were among the groups selected, which meant they had a better chance of receiving an ITA.
Even outside of Express Entry, being fluent in French can make it easier to qualify for other immigration programs. Several provinces offer special pathways for French speakers, particularly in regions that want to grow their Francophone population. Ontario, for example, has a dedicated stream for French-speaking skilled workers under its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Other provinces, like New Brunswick and Manitoba, also give preference to French-speaking candidates in their immigration programs.
Having strong French skills can improve job opportunities as well. Bilingual candidates are in demand in many industries, especially in customer service, healthcare, and government roles. Many employers prefer or even require candidates who can work in both English and French, making bilingual applicants more competitive in the job market.
Preparing for a French language test takes time and effort. Candidates who aren’t fully fluent should consider taking formal language courses or practicing with native speakers. Online resources, mobile apps, and study guides designed for TEF and TCF exams can also help. Practicing all four language skills consistently increases the chances of scoring well on the test.
How Express Entry Profiles Are Selected in Tie-Breaker Situations
In Canada’s Express Entry system, when multiple candidates have the same Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, a tie-breaking rule is used to decide who receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) prioritize applicants based on the date and time they submit their profiles. Those who entered the pool earlier are ranked ahead of those with the same score who submitted later.
Whenever IRCC conducts an Express Entry draw, they set a minimum CRS cut-off score. If many candidates have the exact cut-off score, IRCC uses the tie-breaking rule.
The selection is based on the timestamp of when candidates submit their profiles. Those who submitted first have an advantage, while those who entered the pool later might miss out on an ITA even if their CRS score meets the cut-off.
For example, imagine the cut-off score for a particular draw is set at 431. If hundreds of candidates have a CRS score of 431, IRCC will refer to the tie-breaking rule. If the chosen tie-breaker date is April 3, 2020, at 12:56:32 UTC, only candidates who submitted their profiles before this exact time will get an ITA. Anyone who submitted later—even if they also have 431 points—will not be invited in that round.
The tie-breaking rule helps IRCC manage high numbers of applicants and ensures that profiles are reviewed in the order they were submitted. Since Express Entry is a competitive system, even small details like when a profile is submitted can impact an applicant’s chances.
One important point is that updating a profile does not change the original submission timestamp. Many candidates improve their CRS scores over time by updating their language test results, work experience, or educational credentials.
Even with these updates, their profile remains in the system under the same initial submission date. This means that improving a CRS score does not affect the candidate’s position in the tie-breaking rule.
However, if a candidate deletes their Express Entry profile and submits a new one, the system assigns a completely new timestamp. This can be a disadvantage because it moves the applicant further down the list if a tie-breaker situation arises in future draws. Unless absolutely necessary, it’s best to avoid deleting and resubmitting a profile.
Candidates should submit their profiles as early as possible once they meet the eligibility requirements. Waiting too long can reduce the chances of receiving an ITA in a draw where many applicants have the same CRS score.
Regularly updating the profile with improved credentials can also help. While it won’t change the submission date, increasing the CRS score reduces the likelihood of being caught in a tie-breaking situation. Higher scores lead to better ranking in the pool, making the tie-breaker rule less of a concern.
Understanding how submission timestamps affect Express Entry selections allows candidates to plan their applications better.
What to Expect After Submitting Your Express Entry Application
Many candidates wonder what happens next once an Express Entry application is submitted. The process involves several steps, and processing times can vary depending on different factors. While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to finalize most applications within six months, delays can occur depending on the volume of applications and how quickly candidates respond to requests for additional information.
After submission, the first step is to acknowledge receipt from IRCC. This confirms that the application is complete and has entered the processing queue. If biometrics are required, candidates will receive a request to submit fingerprints and a photograph at a designated collection center. The biometrics fee should be paid at the time of application to prevent unnecessary delays. Once the request is received, applicants have 30 days to complete this step.
IRCC then begins reviewing the application. Officials check that all forms are filled out correctly and that supporting documents meet the requirements. If everything is in order, the application moves to the assessment stage, where IRCC verifies an applicant’s education, work experience, and other eligibility criteria. If any documents are unclear or missing, IRCC may contact the applicant for additional information. Quick responses from applicants help keep the process moving forward.
Processing times depend on several factors. The completeness of an application plays a big role—mistakes or missing documents can slow things down. The number of applications in the system also affects processing speed. When IRCC receives a high volume of submissions, wait times may be longer. Some applications require more extensive background checks or security clearances, which can also extend the timeline.
Candidates can check their application status online using the IRCC status tracker. This tool provides real-time updates and helps applicants stay informed about their progress. Having access to this information can help ease uncertainty while waiting for a decision.
For those already working in Canada, a pending Express Entry application can create concerns about maintaining their legal work status. If a work permit is set to expire before a final decision is made, eligible candidates can apply for a bridging open work permit. This lets them continue working while waiting for their permanent residency approval. To qualify, the application must be submitted before the current work permit expires.
IRCC’s final decision on an application is sent through the applicant’s online account.
If approved, instructions are provided for the next steps in obtaining permanent resident status. This includes receiving a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and preparing for entry into Canada as a new permanent resident.
If an application is refused, the candidate will not receive an ITA in that round. However, they can remain in the Express Entry pool and continue improving their CRS score by gaining more work experience, improving language test results, or obtaining a provincial nomination. If the refusal is due to missing information or an error, submitting a new profile with updated details may be necessary.
Misconceptions About Canada Express Entry That Could Delay Your Application
Many people misunderstand how Express Entry works, and these misconceptions can lead to mistakes or delays in the immigration process. Clearing up common myths can help applicants avoid unnecessary setbacks and improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
One of the major misconceptions is that anyone can apply for Express Entry. In reality, only candidates who meet the requirements of at least one of three programs—Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC)—can create a profile. Each program has certain eligibility criteria that are related to work experience, education, and language skills. Without meeting these requirements, a person cannot enter the Express Entry pool.
Another myth is that submitting an Express Entry profile guarantees permanent residency. The system is competitive, and candidates are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Only those with the highest scores receive ITAs when IRCC holds a draw. A profile remains valid for 12 months, but if a candidate does not receive an ITA within that time, they must submit a new one.
Some people believe a job offer is required to qualify for Express Entry. While a valid job offer can boost a CRS score, it is not mandatory. Many candidates receive ITAs based on their education, work experience, and language test scores alone. However, certain programs, like the Federal Skilled Trades Program, do require a job offer or certification in a specific trade.
Another common misunderstanding is that Express Entry is the only immigration option. While it is a popular pathway, Canada has several other programs, including Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), family sponsorship, and the Atlantic Immigration Program. Candidates who do not qualify for Express Entry should explore these alternative pathways to see if they meet the requirements.
Some assume language test scores don’t have a big impact on CRS rankings. In reality, strong English or French test results can significantly increase a candidate’s score. Even those who meet the minimum language requirements should consider retaking the test if they believe they can achieve higher scores. Every additional point improves the chances of receiving an ITA.
There is also a misconception that Express Entry works like a lottery. Unlike random selection systems, Express Entry ranks candidates based on their CRS scores. Those with the highest scores receive ITAs first. Since the system is merit-based, improving factors like work experience, education, and language skills can increase a candidate’s chances.
Some applicants mistakenly think they cannot update their profiles after submission. While resubmitting a profile is not necessary, candidates should update their information if they gain more work experience, complete additional education, or retake their language test. Keeping an Express Entry profile up to date ensures that it reflects the most accurate CRS score.
Many people also believe hiring an immigration consultant is necessary. While some applicants choose to seek professional help, it is not required. The Express Entry process is designed to be straightforward, and all necessary information is available on the official IRCC website. Many candidates successfully complete their applications on their own by carefully following instructions.
Another common myth is that only one spouse can create an Express Entry profile. In reality, both partners can submit profiles if they meet eligibility requirements. This increases the household’s chances of receiving an ITA. It is important to assess which spouse has the more substantial CRS score to determine who should be the principal applicant.
Finally, some believe that receiving a provincial nomination automatically guarantees permanent residency. While a nomination adds 600 CRS points and almost ensures an ITA, applicants must still meet all federal requirements and complete their application process. The nomination is a major advantage, but permanent residency is only granted after IRCC completes a final review.
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How Long Does Canada Express Entry Take?
Most Express Entry applications are processed within six months or less after submission. Processing times can vary depending on the program and additional requirements.
Is Express Entry Permanent Residency?
Yes, Express Entry is a pathway to permanent residency in Canada if your application is successful and you meet all the criteria.
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