Since its introduction in 2015, Express Entry has become the leading pathway for skilled worker immigration to Canada, gaining popularity each year. In 2023, it saw a significant increase to 488,571 applications, up from 443,003 just two years prior. What should you know before applying through this system, and how can you enhance your chances of a successful immigration outcome?
Express Entry: Key points
Express Entry is a streamlined online system designed for skilled workers aspiring to immigrate to Canada and secure permanent residency. Successful candidates will receive an "invitation to apply" (ITA), prompting them to complete their application and submit all required supporting documents, thereby paving their way to one of the world's most desirable destinations. The system encompasses three primary programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Details on each of these programs are outlined below.
What is a "Skilled Worker"?
Canada has implemented a comprehensive job classification system known as the National Occupational Classification (NOC) that evaluates professions based on a range of criteria, including training, education, professional experience, and responsibilities—collectively known as the Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) system. For instance, managerial roles are categorized under TEER level 0, while positions that require a university degree, like software engineers, are designated as TEER level 1. Skilled workers are classified across TEER levels 0 through 3. For a detailed assessment of how your job fits within this classification, click here.
In 2023, the most represented sectors accepted through the Express Entry program included engineering and software design, software development and programming, and restaurant supervision.
Who successfully receives an "Invitation to Apply" (ITA)?
In 2023, out of 488,571 applications, a total of 110,266 invitations were issued through the Express Entry program. Most of these successful applicants were between 25 and 34, with many holding at least a bachelor's degree. The top countries of origin for these successful candidates were India, Nigeria, and China.
How are applications evaluated?
To be considered for Express Entry, applicants must first satisfy the foundational requirements of professional experience, language proficiency, and educational level, as specified for each respective program.
Following this initial qualification, candidates are assessed through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points based on various criteria to determine their eligibility. Specifically, the Federal Skilled Worker program evaluates candidates on six key factors: age, education, professional experience, employment offers within Canada, language skills in English or French, and adaptability. The minimum score required for eligibility is 67 out of a total of 100 points, though this threshold can vary slightly by program. For an estimate of your potential CRS score, click here.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire Express Entry process typically spans about six months. Once you receive an invitation, it's important to act swiftly as you have only 60 days to complete and submit your application. To monitor the progress of your application, click here.
Is a language test mandatory?
Yes, proficiency in either French or English is a prerequisite for all three Express Entry programs. Candidates are evaluated on their reading and listening comprehension, as well as their spoken and written expression. Please note that only certain designated language tests are accepted, and their results are valid for a period of two years. For comprehensive information on recognized language tests and the proficiency levels required, please visit this page.
Can you settle anywhere in Canada if admitted?
Upon application, you will indicate your preferred province of residence should you be accepted. This choice is not final, and you may alter it subsequently. However, it is important to note that Quebec is not an option through this program, as it operates under its own system for selecting skilled workers. In 2023, Ontario was the most sought-after province among recipients of an Invitation to Apply (ITA), followed closely by British Columbia and Alberta.
Express Entry: The 3 programs in detail
Express Entry includes three programs to which you can apply depending on your professional situation.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class is tailored for skilled workers who have garnered at least one year of work experience in Canada within the three years prior to their application. This professional experience must align with the TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 as classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC). Unlike the other two programs, the CEC does not require an academic qualification. However, applicants must meet the language proficiency standards required for all Express Entry programs.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
This program is designed for individuals with qualified professional experience, which does not need to have been gained in Canada. Applicants must have accumulated this experience within the ten years prior to their application, and it must be relevant to their primary occupation—for instance, a "Data Analyst" must demonstrate experience specifically in that field. As with other programs, this experience should correspond with the TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3. Beyond language proficiency, applicants are also required to hold a certain educational level, which could be a Canadian certificate or diploma (from secondary level upwards) or a foreign diploma that has been validated as equivalent to Canadian standards. In the case of foreign qualifications, you will need to provide documentation confirming the equivalency of your educational credentials with those recognized in Canada. For information on obtaining this equivalence certificate, click here.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The FSTP is designed for individuals with at least two years of qualified experience in a specialized trade, obtained within the last five years prior to application. Eligible trades, as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC), include roles in transportation control, technical trades, supervision in natural resources, agriculture, related production sectors, and culinary fields such as butchery, bakery, and cooking (Chef). Click here to explore the specific trades targeted by this program.
Applicants must either have a job offer in Canada or possess a qualification certificate issued by a recognized Canadian authority for the trade in question. To obtain this certification, please inquire here.
Additionally, you must demonstrate adequate financial means to support yourself in Canada unless you already hold a work permit or have a confirmed job offer. Like all immigration programs, applicants must satisfy general eligibility criteria to ensure they do not pose a security risk or have health conditions that preclude immigration. Find full eligibility conditions here.
How to maximize your success in Express Entry
To enhance your prospects for success through the Express Entry system, consider the following strategies:
Boosting your score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Enhancing your language proficiency and accumulating relevant professional experience are key factors in improving your CRS score. Achieving beyond the minimum language test scores can significantly increase your points, so it's advisable to elevate your language skills and retake the test if you're close to the initial eligibility threshold. Similarly, the length and relevance of your professional experiences play a significant role in the points awarded. Aim to gain experience that aligns closely with the in-demand professions within Canada and ensure you document all relevant job functions, responsibilities, and achievements to substantiate your application effectively.
Keeping up-to-date with immigration policies and developments
The criteria and the number of admissions for Express Entry are subject to change, reflecting the shifting economic goals of Canada. As of September 2024, an increase in Invitations to Apply (ITAs) is being extended particularly to those already in Canada as temporary residents seeking permanent residency. This strategy aims to moderate the impact on the Canadian housing market by not overwhelming it with new arrivals. Additionally, there is a growing preference for Francophone applicants, as Canada seeks to boost the proportion of French-speaking immigrants, especially outside Quebec.
To enhance your chances of success, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest forecasts and policy shifts, allowing you to optimally time your application.
Leveraging the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The PNP operates as a regional immigration program, distinct from the federal Express Entry system. It allows provinces to select candidates based on their specific labor market needs. This program can be a valuable alternative for those who may not meet the point requirements for an Express Entry invitation. By aligning your application to meet the specific demands of a province, you not only enhance your chances of selection but also gain an additional 600 points towards your Express Entry score once nominated. If selected, you are required to reside in the province that nominated you. Click here to learn more about the application process and how to target the right province for your skills and experience.
