How does the Express Entry system work for Canadian immigration?
Starting the process of Canadian immigration through the Express Entry system can bring a mix of excitement and challenges. In this blog, we’ll explore in detail how the Express Entry system functions, providing valuable insights into its workings, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and various pathways to Canadian permanent residence. Whether you’re a skilled worker ready to make Canada your new home or simply curious about the process, join us as we uncover the intricacies of this essential immigration pathway.
Overview of Express Entry
Express Entry serves as an online platform utilized by the Canadian government for the organization and processing of applications from skilled workers aiming to immigrate to Canada and attain Canadian permanent residence.
Key Features of Express Entry:
This system manages three primary federal economic programs, namely:
Eligibility and Submission:
Candidates seeking to submit a profile via the Express Entry system must fulfill the eligibility criteria for one of the three federal programs outlined above.
Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry
We’ll discuss the eligibility criteria for express entry:
Work Experience Requirement:
Applicants must possess at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a skilled occupation within the last 10 years.
Language Proficiency:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French by achieving a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level seven on an approved language test.
Education Requirement:
Completion of post-secondary education assessed against Canadian standards through an Education Credential Assessment is mandatory.
Additional Considerations:
Meeting the aforementioned minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence. Candidates with more robust profiles will be prioritized over those who only meet the minimum criteria.
What is the application process for Express Entry?
Let’s discuss the steps of applying for express entry:
Step 1: Profile Submission
Begin by submitting your profile, including the following documents:
- Language test results
- Educational credential assessment report
- Passport or travel document
Step 2: Profile Evaluation and Pool Inclusion
- Upon submission, your profile will be evaluated, and you will receive a score.
- You will become part of the candidate pool within Express Entry.
- Regularly update your information and explore opportunities to enhance your score to increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Step 3: Invitation to Apply (ITA) and Application Submission
If selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence.
Complete the application process by submitting a comprehensive set of documents supporting the information provided in your profile, including:
- Reference letters
- Additional identity documents
- Police clearance certificates
- Results of a medical examination
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
Cost breakdown for Express Entry
In the following, we’ll discuss the expenses for applying for the express entry stream:
Initial Expenses:
- Language tests: Average cost – $300
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Average cost – $200
- Biometrics: $85/person
Government Fees (Upon Invitation to Apply):
- $1,325/adult
- $225/child
Additional Expenses:
- Medical examination fees: Average cost – $450/adult & $250/child
- Police clearance certificates: Average cost – $100/Country
- Provincial immigration fees (if applicable through a PNP)
Settlement Funds Requirement:
- Unless applying under the Canadian Experience Class program or with a valid arranged employment offer, applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support resettlement in Canada.
- These funds are not government fees but must be accessible to approve a permanent residence visa.
| Number of Family Members | Funds Required |
|---|---|
| 1 | $13,757 |
| 2 | $17,127 |
| 3 | $21,055 |
| 4 | $25,564 |
| 5 | $28,994 |
| 6 | $32,700 |
| 7 | $36,407 |
| Additional family member | $3,706 |
No government fees are necessary to submit the initial Express Entry profile; fees are only required upon receiving an Invitation to Apply for Canadian permanent residence.
Processing time for Express Entry
Express Entry processing time can vary but typically ranges from six months to complete the entire process, from profile submission to receiving a permanent resident visa. However, individual cases may differ in processing duration.
Profile Validity:
Your Express Entry profile remains active in the candidate pool for 12 months if you do not receive an invitation to apply within this period.
Reactivation and Resubmission:
If you do not receive an invitation within 12 months, you can resubmit your profile and remain in the pool for consideration.
Invitation to Apply (ITA):
Upon receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to provide the requested full application documents.
Permanent Resident Visa Processing:
Once immigration authorities receive your complete application, processing for the permanent resident visa by IRCC may take approximately six months.
Creating an Express Entry profile:
In the following, we’ll discuss the steps that you have to follow when you are creating an express entry profile:
Account Creation:
Begin by setting up an IRCC secure account.
Representation (if applicable):
If a representative is handling your profile submission, they will use the Authorized Paid Representatives Portal.
Eligibility Questionnaire:
Complete an eligibility questionnaire to assess qualification for an Express Entry program.
Information Submission:
Fill out an online form with your details, including age, work experience, education, and language test results.
Automatic Evaluation:
Upon form submission, the Express Entry system automatically calculates your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and determines eligibility under specific programs.
Can I apply for Express Entry and PNP simultaneously?
If you are considering applying through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you’ll eventually need to seek permanent residence from the federal government. The method of submission depends on whether your PNP aligns with the Express Entry system, categorized as ‘Enhanced.’
Enhanced PNP: You can submit your permanent residence application via the Express Entry system for faster processing. Nominations under an Enhanced PNP grant an additional 600 points towards the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, virtually ensuring an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the subsequent Express Entry draw. Processing times aim for 6 months, subject to variation.
Base PNP: Submission occurs through the non-Express Entry permanent residence portal. Base PNPs operate outside the Express Entry system and undergo standard PNP processing, typically slower than Enhanced PNP applications.
Maximum age limit for Express Entry
Express Entry does not impose a maximum age limit on applicants. Those aged 20-29 receive the highest points for age. However, if you are considerably older than 35, possessing a high level of education or strong connections in Canada can offset points lost due to age.
Can I submit multiple Express Entry applications?
No, it’s not possible to have two Express Entry applications for the same applicant simultaneously. However, if you have a spouse or common-law partner who is eligible, you can apply under their profile. While one applicant cannot have multiple Express Entry profiles, exceptions apply for families in certain circumstances.
If you don’t receive an invitation to apply within 12 months, you can resubmit your profile and remain in the Express Entry pool for another 12 months. This process can be repeated as needed.
In conclusion, the Express Entry system is a pivotal gateway for individuals aspiring to immigrate to Canada. Through our exploration of its mechanisms, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of its complexities, from eligibility criteria to application procedures. While navigating the Express Entry process may present challenges, it offers unparalleled opportunities for skilled workers seeking to build a new life in Canada. As we conclude this journey through the Express Entry system, we’re reminded of its significance as a pathway to Canadian permanent residence, paving the way for diverse individuals to contribute to the rich tapestry of Canadian society.
