Express Entry

Who this pathway suits

Express Entry is the primary gateway to Canadian permanent residence for skilled professionals worldwide. It manages three key federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).Candidates are ranked against one another using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points for core human capital (age, education, language skills, Canadian and foreign work experience), skill transferability, and additional factors such as a provincial nomination (+600 points) or qualifying Canadian job offer.Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts regular invitation rounds, including general draws, category-based selection draws (targeting Healthcare, STEM, Trades, Transport, Agriculture, and French proficiency), and Provincial Nominee Program draws.

Eligibility at a glance

• Qualify for at least one Express Entry stream: FSWP, CEC, or FSTP
• Skilled work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 of Canada's National Occupational Classification (NOC)
• Approved language test: IELTS General, CELPIP-G, or PTE Core for English; TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for all foreign degrees (WES, ICAS, CES, IQAS, or ICES)
• Score at least 67 points on the FSWP 100-point selection grid (for foreign skilled workers)
• Sufficient settlement funds (unless currently authorized to work in Canada with a valid job offer)
• Admissible to Canada (pass criminal background and immigration medical exams)

How the process works

1. Language Testing & ECA — Complete IELTS/CELPIP/PTE and obtain Educational Credential Assessment for your degrees.
2. Calculate CRS Score & Create Profile — Submit your Express Entry profile online via the official IRCC portal.
3. Enter the Pool & Monitor Draws — Profile is active for 12 months. Track CRS cut-offs and category-based selection rounds.
4. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA) — Top-scoring candidates receive an official ITA in periodic IRCC invitation rounds.
5. Submit Full PR Application (e-APR) — Upload all supporting documentation and pay government fees within 60 calendar days.
6. Biometrics & Medical Assessment — Provide biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and undergo medical checks.
7. Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) — Receive your COPR and permanent resident visa, ready to land in Canada.

Documents you will typically need

• Valid passport for all accompanying family members
• Language test results (less than 2 years old)
• ECA evaluation report confirming Canadian degree equivalence
• Detailed employment reference letters showing job duties, hours, and remuneration
• Proof of settlement funds (official bank certification letters and statements)
• Police clearance certificates from all jurisdictions lived in for 6+ consecutive months since age 18
• Upfront or post-ITA Immigration Medical Examination (IME) receipt

Frequently asked questions