Introduction to Express Entry: Immigrate to Canada Through a Streamlined System
The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers seeking to immigrate to Canada and obtain permanent residency. Designed for efficiency and transparency, this points-based system assesses candidates based on core eligibility factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. By meeting the eligibility requirements and creating an online profile, qualified applicants can enter the Express Entry pool and potentially receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
At CANINGRESS Immigration Services, our team of experienced professionals specializes in guiding clients through each step of the Express Entry process. With deep knowledge of immigration legislation and proven expertise in permanent residence applications, we offer tailored strategies to maximize your chances of success. On this page, we provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you understand and navigate the Express Entry system with confidence.
📖 Contents (Click to Navigate)
What is Express Entry?
The Express Entry system is the fastest and most efficient way to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada for skilled workers. It is an online system that manages applications under three main immigration programs:
✅ Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For skilled professionals with foreign work experience.
✅ Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For skilled trade workers.
✅ Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For people with Canadian work experience.
How It Works in a Nutshell:
1. Create an Express Entry Profile
2. Get a CRS Score & Enter the Pool of Candidates
3. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
4. Submit PR Application & Supporting Documents
5. Receive a Decision & Move to Canada as a Permanent Resident
Processing Time: Most Express Entry applications are processed within 6 months after submission.
Eligibility vs. CRS Score
One of the most common misunderstandings about Express Entry is the difference between:
✅ Eligibility Points (67-point system) – Determines if you qualify to enter the Express Entry Pool.
✅ CRS Score (Comprehensive Ranking System) – Determines if you get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Eligibility (67-Point System) – Minimum Requirement to Enter the Express Entry Pool
To qualify, candidates must score at least 67 points out of 100 based on:
• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Language proficiency (IELTS or TEF)
• Arranged employment in Canada (if any)
• Adaptability factors (such as a spouse’s qualifications)
CRS Score – Competitive Ranking to Get an ITA
Once in the Express Entry Pool, applicants are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns a score out of 1,200 points based on:
• Core factors (age, education, work experience)
• Language proficiency (CLB level)
• Job offer from a Canadian employer
• Canadian work experience
• Provincial nomination (600 extra points!)
• Spouse’s qualifications (if applicable)
Important Note:
• Many people confuse these two scores and assume that getting 67 points means they are guaranteed PR. This is incorrect.
• The CRS score fluctuates in each draw, and applicants need a high CRS score or a Provincial Nomination (PNP) to increase their chances of being invited.
🔗 Government CRS Calculator: Government CRS Tool
However, be cautious! The government’s calculator provides only an approximate score and often does not include every detail that can maximize your points.
Our Advantage: We use a customized points calculation approach, considering every small factor that the government calculator does not ask (e.g., spouse’s credentials, specific foreign work experience rules, education equivalency).
🔝 Back to TopHow Express Entry Works
The Express Entry system operates in two stages:
Stage 1: Entering the Pool
1️⃣ Create an Express Entry Profile – Submit your education, work experience, and language test results.
2️⃣ Receive a CRS Score – You are ranked against other candidates based on your score.
Stage 2: Receiving an Invitation & Applying for PR
3️⃣ Wait for an Express Entry Draw – Canada selects candidates with the highest CRS scores.
4️⃣ Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) – If selected, you’ll have 60 days to submit your PR application.
5️⃣ Application Processing & Approval – If approved, you receive PR status and can move to Canada.
🔝 Back to TopStep-by-Step Process
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
• We assess whether you meet the 67-point requirement to enter the Express Entry pool.
Step 2: Get Your Language Test Results (IELTS/TEF)
• Mandatory for all applicants.
• The higher the score, the better your CRS ranking.
Step 3: Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
• Foreign education must be evaluated by a designated organization to match Canadian standards.
• Common ECA providers: WES, ICAS, IQAS, CES, PEBC (for pharmacists).
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
• Enter all your details (education, work experience, language test results, etc.).
• Receive your CRS score and enter the Express Entry Pool.
Step 5: Improve Your CRS Score (If Needed)
• Options to increase your score:
✔️ Retake IELTS for a higher language score
✔️ Gain more work experience
✔️ Obtain a job offer in Canada
✔️ Apply for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Guaranteed 600 extra points!
Step 6: Wait for the Express Entry Draw & Receive an ITA
• IRCC conducts regular draws (every 2 weeks) to invite the highest-ranked candidates.
• If your CRS score meets the cutoff, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 7: Submit Your PR Application
• You must submit your complete PR application within 60 days of receiving the ITA.
• Upload all documents (passport, medical exams, proof of funds, police clearance, etc.).
Step 8: Medical & Background Checks
• IRCC reviews your documents and conducts background checks.
• A medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician is required.
Step 9: Receive Confirmation of PR (COPR) & Travel to Canada
• If approved, you receive a COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence) and can move to Canada!
• PR status is granted at the Canadian border (landing process).
Congratulations! You are now a Permanent Resident of Canada!
🔝 Back to TopHow We Help You Succeed
✅ Personalized CRS Score Calculation – We analyze every detail of your background to ensure your highest possible score.
✅ Strategic Profile Improvement – We guide you on realistic ways to increase CRS points.
✅ PNP Assistance – If your CRS score is low, we help you secure a Provincial Nomination (+600 points!).
✅ Job Search Assistance – Connecting eligible candidates with Canadian employers for valid job offers.
✅ Full PR Application Support – Ensuring a smooth and successful submission with accurate documentation.
Book a Consultation:
If you’re serious about immigrating to Canada, let us assess your profile and create a personalized Express Entry strategy for you.
🔝 Back to TopStart Your Journey with Confidence — We’re Here to Help
Navigating the Express Entry system can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re assessing your eligibility, preparing your profile, or responding to an Invitation to Apply, the CANINGRESS Immigration Services team is here to support you every step of the way. As experts in Express Entry and Canadian immigration law, we are committed to helping you present the strongest possible application.
We invite you to book a free consultation to discuss your immigration goals and explore how we can assist you in making Canada your new home. Book your consultation here.
Frequently Asked Questions
