Ultimate Guide to Express Entry – Canada Immigration

1. Overview of Express Entry

1.1 What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system that helps Canada choose skilled workers for permanent residence. It manages applications for three programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – for professionals with work experience outside Canada.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – for people who have worked in Canada for at least one year.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – for workers in skilled trades like electricians and welders.

Candidates get points based on age, education, work experience, and language skills. Those with the highest scores get invited to apply for permanent residence.

1.2 Why Did Canada Introduce This System?

Canada introduced Express Entry in 2015 to speed up the immigration process and ensure the country attracts skilled workers who can contribute to its economy. The system is designed to be transparent, efficient, and fair.

1.3 Who Can Apply, and What Are the Benefits?

Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria of one of the Express Entry programs can apply. Benefits include:

• Faster processing times (as little as six months for many applications).
• A clear, merit-based selection process.
• The opportunity to obtain permanent residence, leading to Canadian citizenship.

2. Express Entry Programs Explained

2.1 Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

This program is designed for skilled professionals who have work experience outside of Canada. To be eligible, you must:

1. Have at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation.
2. Achieve a minimum language proficiency score (IELTS or CELPIP for English; TEF or TCF for French).
3. Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign qualifications.

2.2 Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

This program is for individuals who have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. It is ideal for international graduates or temporary workers already in the country.

2.3 Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

This program is designed for skilled trade workers such as electricians, welders, and plumbers. Key requirements include:

• At least two years of work experience in a qualifying trade.
• A valid job offer OR a Canadian trade certification.

2.4 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry

PNPs allow Canadian provinces to nominate candidates for Express Entry. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

3. Express Entry Eligibility & Requirements

3.1 Who Is Eligible for Express Entry?

Eligibility depends on the program you apply for. General requirements include:

• Age: No specific age limit, but younger applicants score higher.
• Education: A recognized qualification equivalent to a Canadian diploma, degree, or certificate.
• Work Experience: At least one year in a skilled occupation.
• Language Proficiency: Must meet minimum English or French language test scores.
• Proof of Funds: Applicants must show they have enough money to support themselves in Canada (unless they have a job offer).

3.2 Do I Need a Job Offer to Qualify?

No, a job offer is not required for Express Entry. However, having one can significantly boost your CRS score.

3.3 How Much Does Express Entry Cost?

The cost of applying for Express Entry depends on several factors, including government fees, third-party costs, and additional expenses.

3.3.1 Government Fees

• Application Processing Fee: As of April 30, 2024, the processing fee is CAD 950 per adult applicant (principal applicant and spouse/common-law partner).
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): Effective April 30, 2024, this fee is CAD 575 per adult applicant.
• Dependent Children: The processing fee for each accompanying dependent child is CAD 260.

Total Government Fees:

• Single Applicant: CAD 1,525 (Processing Fee: CAD 950 + RPRF: CAD 575)
• Family of Four (Two Adults & Two Children): CAD 3,570 (Processing Fees: CAD 1,900 + RPRF: CAD 1,150 + Children: CAD 520)

3.3.2 Third-Party Costs

• Language Test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF): Approximately CAD 300 per person.
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Approximately CAD 200 per person.
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (approx INR 5200/-)per person or CAD 170(approx INR 11000/-) per family.

3.3.3 Additional Costs

• Police Clearance Certificates: Costs vary by country.
• Medical Exam: Approximately CAD 200 per person.
• Translation of Documents: Costs vary.
• Immigration Consultant or Lawyer (optional): Fees range from CAD 2,000 to 5,000.

3.3.4 Settlement Funds

Applicants must show proof of funds to support themselves and their families:

4. Step-by-Step Express Entry Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents

• Appear in any of these language tests (English - IELTS or CELPIP; French -  TCF, TEF).

• Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees.
• Find your National Occupational Classification (NOC) code.

Step 2: Create an Express Entry Profile

• Register online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
• Submit personal details, work experience, and education history.

Step 3: Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

• The CRS score is based on age, education, work experience, language ability, and other factors.
• Applicants who receive higher scores increase their chances of acquiring an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 4: Express Entry Draws & Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• IRCC holds regular draws (usually every two weeks).
• People who have the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.

Step 5: Submitting Your PR Application

• After receiving an ITA, applicants have 60 days to submit their final application.
• This includes medical exams, police certificates, and proof of funds.
• Processing times typically range from 6 to 12 months.

5. Processing Time for Express Entry in Canada

The Express Entry system is designed to be a fast and efficient process, with the possibility of completing the entire procedure in as little as six months. However, actual processing times vary based on individual circumstances.

5.1 Step-by-Step Processing Time Breakdown

1. Profile Validity in the Pool: Express Entry profiles remain active for 12 months. If no ITA is received, a new profile must be created.
2. Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected, applicants have 60 days to submit a complete application.
3. Processing of the Application: IRCC typically processes applications within six months, but times may vary due to application volume and additional document requests.

While some applicants receive permanent residency within six months, others may experience longer wait times depending on their specific case.