Express Entry is Canada's primary system for managing applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. Since its launch in 2015, Express Entry has helped hundreds of thousands of immigrants build new lives in Canada. Understanding how the system works and how to maximize your chances of success is crucial for anyone considering immigration to Canada.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online immigration application system that manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) - for skilled workers with foreign work experience, Canadian Experience Class (CEC) - for skilled workers with Canadian work experience, and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) - for skilled tradespeople.
Express Entry is not an immigration program itself but rather a system for managing applications. Candidates create a profile, enter the pool, and are ranked against other candidates. The highest-ranked candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence during regular draws held throughout the year.
Eligibility Requirements
To enter the Express Entry pool, you must meet the minimum requirements for at least one of the three programs. General eligibility factors include: skilled work experience (NOC 0, A, or B occupations), language proficiency (CLB 7 or higher in English or French), education credentials, and sufficient settlement funds (unless you have a valid job offer or Canadian work experience).
You must also be admissible to Canada (no criminal record, security concerns, or health issues that would make you inadmissible).
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Once eligible, candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). CRS assigns points based on: Core human capital factors (age, education, language proficiency, Canadian work experience) - up to 500 points for single applicants or 460 points for applicants with a spouse, Spouse or common-law partner factors - up to 40 points, Skill transferability - up to 100 points, and Additional factors - up to 600 points (provincial nomination, valid job offer, Canadian education, sibling in Canada, French language proficiency).
The maximum possible CRS score is 1,200 points. Candidates need to score above the CRS cut-off in an invitation round to receive an ITA. Cut-off scores vary with each draw but typically range from 470-510 for general draws in 2025.
Strategies to Improve Your CRS Score
If your CRS score is below recent cut-offs, consider these strategies to improve it: Improve language test scores - even small increases in language proficiency can add significant points, Obtain additional education credentials - a master's degree or PhD can add points, Gain more work experience - up to 3 years of foreign work experience earns maximum points, Secure a provincial nomination - adds 600 points and virtually guarantees an ITA, Obtain a valid job offer - adds 50-200 points depending on NOC level, Add or remove a spouse - depending on their credentials, this might increase overall score, Learn or improve French - strong French proficiency adds significant points.
Each case is unique. An immigration lawyer can help you develop a personalized strategy to maximize your CRS score.
The Express Entry Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility - Assess whether you meet the minimum requirements for at least one program.
Step 2: Prepare Documents - Gather educational credentials, language test results, work experience letters, and proof of funds.
Step 3: Create Express Entry Profile - Complete your profile in the IRCC portal. Your profile is valid for 12 months.
Step 4: Enter the Pool - Once your profile is complete, you enter the pool and are assigned a CRS score.
Step 5: Receive ITA - If selected in a draw, you receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.
Step 6: Submit Application - You have 60 days from receiving your ITA to submit a complete application with all supporting documents.
Step 7: Application Processing - IRCC reviews your application. Processing time is typically 6 months from submission.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence - Once approved, you become a permanent resident of Canada.
Conclusion
Express Entry offers a streamlined path to Canadian permanent residence for skilled workers. However, navigating the system successfully requires careful planning, proper documentation, and strategic decision-making. Small mistakes in your application can lead to delays or refusals. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer ensures your application is complete, accurate, and presents you in the best possible light. If you're considering Express Entry, contact Kanevsky Law Office today. We'll assess your eligibility, help you maximize your CRS score, and guide you through every step of the application process.
