A Guide For New Immigrants

Three Main Programs: Express Entry encompasses three primary immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Ensure you understand the criteria for each program to determine which one aligns with your qualifications and experience.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS): Your profile will be scored using the CRS, based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. This score will determine your rank within the Express Entry pool.

Language Proficiency: You need to take an approved language test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French) and achieve a minimum score. Language scores play a significant role in your CRS score.

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you obtained your education outside of Canada, you’d likely need an ECA from a recognized institution to prove that your education meets Canadian standards.

Job Offers Aren’t Mandatory: While having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can provide additional CRS points, it’s not a requirement to enter the Express Entry pool.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Provinces and territories in Canada have their PNP streams aligned with Express Entry. If you get a provincial nomination, you receive an additional 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Regular Draws: The Canadian government conducts regular Express Entry draws, typically every two weeks. During these draws, candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.

Updating Your Profile: Even after entering the pool, you can (and should) update your profile if there are any changes in your circumstances (e.g., improved language scores, additional work experience) that might boost your CRS score.

ITA and Application Fees: Once you receive an ITA, you’ll need to pay the application fees and submit your application within 60 days. Make sure you have all necessary documentation ready to avoid last-minute rushes.

Proof of Funds: Unless you’re currently working in Canada or have a valid job offer, you’ll need to show proof of funds to demonstrate that you can support yourself and your family upon arrival.

Medical Exams and Police Checks: After receiving an ITA, you’ll need a medical exam by a panel physician and a police check from every country you’ve lived in for more than six months consecutively.

Application Processing Time: The Express Entry system boasts processing times of around six months for most complete applications, making it one of the faster pathways to Canadian permanent residency.

Seek Expert Guidance: While the Express Entry system is designed to be user-friendly, consulting with an immigration lawyer or a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) can provide clarity and ensure that all requirements are met