Ever wondered how thousands of skilled workers from around the world have successfully made Canada their home since 2015? The answer is the Express Entry Program, a merit-based pathway for skilled professionals looking to move to Canada.
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing applications from skilled workers who want to become permanent residents. The process may seem complex at first, but we’ve created this guide at Remitly to lay out a clear path for you to live and work in Canada.
In this guide, you’ll learn how the Express Entry system works, check eligibility requirements, understand the application process, and get practical tips to move forward on your path towards Canadian immigration.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online program used to manage three federal economic immigration programs:
Express Entry is not an immigration program itself, it’s the tool that organizes and ranks professional candidates looking for a move to Canada. It selects candidates who are most likely to succeed economically in Canada, helping the country welcome skilled workers that can contribute to the workforce and economy.
How does the Express Entry system work?
The Express Entry process has two main steps. First, you create an online profile with details such as your age, education, work experience, language skills, and other key information. Next, the highest-ranked candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Profiles for permanent residence applications are scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which ranks you based on the information used to create your online profile. It ranks candidates against each other and not a fixed cut-off. Draws happen regularly, usually every two weeks, with the top scorers invited to apply.
Who can apply through Express Entry?
Before we cover what you need for your Express Entry profile, let’s look at who can apply:
Federal Skilled Worker Program
This program is for skilled workers who have foreign work experience. To qualify, you need at least one year of full-time skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) in the last 10 years.
You also need to show language proficiency and reach the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 in English or French, and have a Canadian or a recognized foreign credential with an Education Credential Assessment (ECA).
The good news is that many occupations qualify as skilled work, from IT and engineering to healthcare, finance, and more. Candidates are scored through a points-based system with minimum requirements to meet eligibility.
Canadian Experience Class
You can apply for this program if you have recent Canadian work experience. To qualify, you need at least one year of skilled work in Canada within the last three years, valid status during that work, and a minimum CLB 5 in language proficiency.
You also need to show that you plan to live outside Quebec and meet basic health and security requirements. This is because the province of Quebec selects its own skilled workers.
If you’re already living and working in Canada, this pathway is often easier because Canadian experience adds points and strengthens your application.
Federal Skilled Trades Program
This program is designed for those with hands-on trade experience, such as electricians, plumbers, welders, and carpenters.
To qualify, you need at least two years of full-time skilled trade work in the last five years, along with either a valid one-year job offer or a trade certificate from a Canadian province or territory.
You also need to meet basic language requirements (CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing) and plan to live outside Quebec.
Your Express Entry profile: What you need
To create your Express Entry profile, you’ll need:
- Passports and IDs: ensure your passport is valid for the next year.
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF): book online early, seats fill fast, and get a test date. Results usually arrive three to four days after the test.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): request from a designated body (WES, IQAS, etc) and factor in four to twelve weeks for processing.
- Work experience letters: ask employers for official letters on company letterhead showing job title, start/end dates, duties, hours/week, and employer contact info. Drafting and sign-off can take one to four weeks.
- Transcripts and academic documents: request originals or certified copies from your school. This can take one to six weeks and longer for older institutions.
- Other supporting docs: proof of funds, medical exam, and marriage and police certificates. Timelines can vary as police checks and medicals can take several weeks. So start those early.
How does each item affect your CRS score?
Language tests determine official language points. Your ECA confirms the educational level for CRS points. Work experience letters verify Canadian or foreign skilled work for related CRS categories.
Age and Canadian work experience are scored directly. Other items like police certificates, medicals, and proof of funds are required for admissibility but don’t add CRS points.
Here’s a quick points breakdown of the main factors:
| Factors | Points with a spouse or common law partner | Points without a spouse or common law partner |
| Age | 100 | 110 |
| Level of education | 140 | 150 |
| Official language proficiency | 150 | 160 |
| Canadian work experience | 70 | 80 |
To get started, begin with the language test and ECA since they usually take the longest. Work on employer letters and transcripts while you prepare for the test. Break the checklist into weekly goals and you’ll avoid last-minute stress.
The step-by-step application process
The Express Entry application process is straightforward once you know the steps to follow:
Step one: check your eligibility
Check which program fits you and use Canada’s official eligibility tool to see if you qualify. Be accurate about your work history, education, and language scores. Getting it right now saves time later. Once eligible, gather the supporting documents outlined earlier.
Step two: create your profile
Set up your Express Entry profile online on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. The system walks you through each section with clear instructions. You’ll input your background, test results, and work details. The system is designed to be straightforward, making it easy even if you’re new to immigration forms.
Step three: wait for an invitation
Once submitted, your profile goes into the candidate pool. From there, you’re ranked using the CRS. IRCC holds regular draws and invites the highest scoring candidates. Scores vary by draw, so patience and persistence matters. If you’re not invited within 12 months, your profile expires and you have to create a new one.
Step four: submit your application
If you get an ITA, you’ll have 60 days to upload documents used in your profile to complete the application. Double-check your documents and dates to ensure the information is accurate. Missing information or expired documents may lead to rejection.
Step five: pay the fees
Pay the required processing and right-of-permanent-residence fees in CAD and follow IRCC instructions to provide biometrics. Be sure to keep all your payment receipts.
Step six: IRCC review and final checks
An IRCC officer reviews your file and may request additional documents or clarification. If approved, IRCC issues a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and instructions for visa issuance or landing as a permanent residence. Follow the steps IRCC gives you to finalize your status.
Tips to improve your Express Entry score
Boosting your score can make the difference between waiting in the pool and getting an invitation:
Language proficiency
Getting high language test scores can boost your CRS score and improve your ranking in the Canadian immigration system. Improving your English or French abilities, even by a single CLB level, can add points to your profile. Consider retaking the test if you think you can score higher.
Education
You need an ECA for foreign degrees, but earning additional qualifications can also boost your score. For example, completing a master’s degree or adding a diploma can increase your CRS points significantly.
Canadian connections
Having ties to Canada is another powerful way to boost your profile. A valid job offer, a provincial nomination, or completing a degree in Canada can add substantial points and move you to the top of the pool.
Processing times and what to expect
Most Express Entry applications are processed in about six months, but times can vary depending on the number of applicants and program demand. Always check the latest estimates on the official IRCC website.
During this stage, officers review your documents, verify your information, and assess whether you meet all eligibility and admissibility requirements. This includes background checks, medical results, and confirmation of work and education history.
IRCC keeps applicants informed through their online account, where you can track progress and see updates as your file moves forward. While the wait can feel long, the system is designed to be transparent so you always know where your permanent residence application stands.
Take your next step towards Canadian immigration
Express Entry, the Canadian immigration system for skilled professionals, is one of the most efficient and transparent in the world. It’s merit-based, so your skills and experience truly matter. The process moves faster than many other immigration pathways.
Your next step is to check if you’re eligible, start gathering your key documents, or create your online profile. The official Government of Canada website has the latest tools and guidance to get you started with confidence.
Canada continues to welcome skilled immigrants who can contribute to its economy and communities, and your journey could be next.
FAQ
Am I eligible if my job isn’t on a special list?
Yes, as long as your work falls under a skilled occupation category (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) and you meet the program requirements, you may qualify. You can check your occupation’s eligibility using the official Government of Canada NOC search tool.
What CRS score do I need to get selected?
There’s no fixed pass mark. Each draw has a cutoff that changes depending on the pool. The higher your score, the better your chances. Keeping an eye on recent draw results can give you a realistic sense of where you stand.
What happens if my Express Entry application is refused?
A refusal doesn’t mean the end of your journey. You can review the reasons, strengthen your profile, and reapply when you’re ready. You can succeed on your second attempt after improving your language scores, credentials, and documentation.
How long does the Express Entry take?
Most Express Entry applications are processed within six months once you’ve submitted your full application after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Timelines can change depending on the volume and individual cases, but you’ll receive regular updates through your online account.
What is the minimum CRS score needed for Express Entry?
There isn’t a fixed minimum. Instead your score is compared to others in the candidate pool. Recent draws have ranged from the 470s to the 500s, but this varies on the type of draw and immigration targets.
Can I apply to Express Entry without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply and be selected without a job offer. However, having a valid offer can give you extra CRS points and improve your chances of getting an ITA.
How much does it cost to apply through Express Entry?
The government processing fee is $1,365 CAD for an adult applicant (including the right of permanent residence fee). You’ll also need to budget for additional costs like language tests, medical exams, and document verification.