Express Entry Program
The Canada Express Entry Program is an online system designed to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers aiming to settle in Canada and contribute to its economy. Managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the program employs a points-based system known as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and rank candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Regular draws are conducted to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency.
Recent Updates and Changes in 2025
In 2025, several significant changes have been introduced to the Express Entry system:
- Increased Immigration Targets: The federal government has set higher targets for admissions under federal economic programs, with a focus on healthcare occupations, trade occupations, and French-language proficiency.
- Removal of CRS Points for Job Offers: Starting in the spring of 2025, CRS points are no longer awarded for valid job offers. Previously, candidates could receive additional points for having a job offer, but this measure has been temporarily suspended.
- Category-Based Selections: IRCC has implemented category-based draws to align with Canada's labor market priorities. In 2025, priority categories include healthcare occupations, trade occupations, and French-language proficiency.
Steps to Apply for Canada Express Entry
The Canada Express Entry Program is a popular immigration pathway for skilled workers who want to move to Canada and contribute to its economy. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of applying for Express Entry, from determining your eligibility to submitting your final application for Permanent Residency
- Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
The first step in the Express Entry process is to determine if you are eligible under one of the three main immigration programs. Each program has its own requirements:
Before creating your Express Entry profile, you must check if you're eligible for one of the three immigration programs managed by Express Entry.
- Step 2 - Gather Necessary Documents: Collect documents such as language test results, educational credential assessments, and proof of work experience.
- Step 3 - Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your profile through the IRCC online portal to enter the Express Entry pool.
- Step 4 - Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you meet the CRS cut-off in a draw, you will receive an ITA.
- Step 5 - Submit a Complete Application: After receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.
- Step 6 - Await a Decision: IRCC aims to process most Express Entry applications within six months.
Recent Express Entry Draws
Canada conducts regular Express Entry draws to invite skilled workers for permanent residency. Keeping track of the latest draws can help you understand trends and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
View Latest Express Entry Draws
How is PNP Different from Express Entry?
The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are special immigration programs that are run by each province in Canada. They do not fall under the Express Entry System, which covers only the economic Federal immigration pathways.
However, it may be possible for candidates to earn 600 additional points on their CRS score if they receive a nomination under a qualifying Provincial Nominee Program. This will help them improve their odds of receiving an Invitation to Apply via the Express Entry System.
FAQ
Yes, one can apply without an offer letter, but they must show previous work experience as well as proof of funds to support themselves in the meantime.
No. At least one year of work experience is required for eligibility.
The minimum CRS score varies with each draw. It depends on the pool of candidates and Canada’s immigration targets at the time. Recent draws have had cut-off scores ranging from 470-520 for general draws.
Most Express Entry applications are processed within six months from the date of submission of a complete application, but processing times may vary based on the volume of applications received.
Yes, you can improve your CRS score by retaking language tests for higher scores, gaining additional work experience, securing a provincial nomination, or obtaining a higher educational qualification assessment.
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your Express Entry application. Including a spouse may impact your CRS score, depending on their qualifications and work experience.
If your profile expires after 12 months without receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you will need to create a new profile to remain in the Express Entry pool.
Yes, you can apply for Express Entry while on a work permit in Canada, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three Express Entry programs.
