Express Entry: What you need to know about Express Entry and How it works?

In this article, we will delve into the details of Express Entry and how it functions as a streamlined immigration process for prospective permanent residents.

Express Entry is a Canadian immigration system that manages the applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is for individuals with skilled work experience who want to settle in Canada permanently.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program is for individuals with experience in specific skilled trades and who want to become permanent residents.
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is for individuals who have skilled work experience in Canada and want to become permanent residents.

Express Entry is designed to streamline the immigration process, making it faster and more efficient. Here’s how it works:

1. Eligibility Assessment:

• First, individuals interested in immigrating to Canada through Express Entry must assess their eligibility for one of the three mentioned programs.
• The eligibility criteria include factors like age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability.

2. Create an Express Entry Profile:

• If eligible, candidates create an online profile in the Express Entry system. In this profile, they provide information about themselves, including details on their work experience, education, language skills, and other relevant information.

3. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score:

• Express Entry candidates are ranked using a point-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Points are awarded based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and other additional factors.

4. Invitation to Apply (ITA):

• Periodically, the Canadian government conducts Express Entry draws where candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency. These draws typically happen every two weeks.

5. Submitting a Full Application:

• If a candidate receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA), they have 60 days to submit a full application for permanent residency.

6. Processing and Verification:

• The Canadian immigration authorities process and verify the application, which includes background checks, medical examinations, and security clearances.

7. Points Allocation and Selection:

• Points are allocated based on factors such as language proficiency, education, work experience, and other criteria. Candidates with the highest CRS scores are selected to receive an ITA.

8. Permanent Residency Approval:

• If the application is approved, the candidate and their immediate family (spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children) are granted permanent residency in Canada.

9. Landing in Canada:

• Once the application is approved, the candidate and their family are required to land in Canada and become permanent residents.

Express Entry has become a popular and efficient pathway for skilled immigrants to come to Canada. However, it’s important to note that the CRS score cutoff for ITAs can vary with each draw, so candidates should work on improving their profiles to maximize their chances of being selected for permanent residency. Additionally, provincial nominee programs and job offers from Canadian employers can also boost a candidate’s CRS score and improve their chances in the Express Entry system.

*** It’s important to note that these steps and requirements are subject to change, so it’s crucial to consult the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most up-to-date information.