Frequently Asked Questions About Canada’s Express Entry System
What is the Express Entry System?
The Express Entry system is an online immigration application management tool used by the Canadian government for skilled workers. It streamlines the immigration process by allowing candidates to submit an online profile to be considered as a skilled immigrant. This system is designed to fill labor shortages in Canada by attracting skilled workers from around the world.
How Does the Express Entry System Work?
The Express Entry system operates under three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates are ranked based on a points system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Points are awarded for factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score candidates in the Express Entry pool. The CRS considers several factors:
- Human capital factors such as age and education.
- Spouse or common-law partner factors.
- Skills transferability factors.
- Additional factors like a valid job offer or provincial nomination.
Who Can Apply for Express Entry?
To apply for Express Entry, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria of at least one of the three federal economic immigration programs. Additionally, candidates need to have their foreign educational credentials assessed by an approved agency and must demonstrate their proficiency in either English or French through standardized language tests.
Language Proficiency Requirements
Language proficiency is a crucial component of the Express Entry application. Candidates must take a recognized language test and achieve a minimum score that reflects their ability to speak, listen, read, and write in English or French. The most common tests are the IELTS for English and the TEF for French.
What is an Invitation to Apply (ITA)?
An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is issued to candidates who rank high enough in the Express Entry pool. When Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts draws from the pool, candidates with scores above a certain threshold receive an ITA. Receiving an ITA means you can apply for permanent residency in Canada.
Post-ITA Process
Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. It is important to gather all necessary documentation during this time, including medical exams and police certificates. The process is time-sensitive, so preparation is key.
How Long Does the Express Entry Process Take?
The Express Entry process timeline varies depending on several factors, including how quickly candidates can gather their documents after receiving an ITA. On average, the process from submitting an Express Entry profile to receiving permanent residency can take six months or more. However, processing times may vary.
The Express Entry system has revolutionized Canada's approach to selecting skilled immigrants by streamlining the process and making it more efficient. Understanding these frequently asked questions can help potential immigrants navigate this system more effectively and increase their chances of success.