1. What is Express Entry for permanent residency in Canada?
Express Entry is an online application management system used by the Canadian government to manage and process applications for permanent residency. It streamlines the process for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada based on their education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Express Entry is not an immigration program itself, but rather a tool used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to select eligible candidates for several federal economic immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Successful applicants are granted permanent residency in Canada.2. What are the eligibility criteria for Express Entry?
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must meet the criteria of at least one of the three economic immigration programs managed through the system: 1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is designed for skilled workers with at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience in a skilled occupation listed in Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. Applicants must also meet minimum language requirements in English or French, have sufficient settlement funds and pass a medical exam.
2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is for individuals who have at least one year of full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years and who plan to live outside of Quebec.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program is for skilled workers with at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the five years before applying, who meet English or French language requirements, and who have an offer of full-time employment for at least a year OR a certificate of qualification from a province or territory in Canada.
Aside from meeting the eligibility requirements for one of these programs, you must also obtain a positive eligibility assessment by scoring enough points on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
3. How do I apply for Express Entry?
To apply for Express Entry, you must follow these steps:1. Check if you are eligible to apply: The first step is to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for one of the three immigration programs under Express Entry – the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program or the Canadian Experience Class. You can check your eligibility on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
2. Create an Express Entry profile: If you are eligible, you can create an online profile on IRCC’s website by providing information about your skills, work experience, education, language abilities and other relevant details. Your profile will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on this information.
3. Get an invitation to apply: If your CRS score meets the minimum cutoff score set by the government in one of its regular draws from the pool of candidates, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
4. Complete your application within 60 days: You will have 60 days from the date of receiving your ITA to complete and submit your application for permanent residence along with all required supporting documents.
5. Wait for a decision: After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by IRCC and you will be informed of their decision in writing.
6. Arrive in Canada as a permanent resident: If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document which allows you to enter Canada as a permanent resident.
4. Can I still apply for Express Entry if I don’t have enough points?
Yes, even if you do not initially have enough points to meet the minimum CRS score in one of IRCC’s draws, you can still create an Express Entry profile and enter into the pool of candidates. As long as your profile remains active and meets all eligibility requirements, it will stay in the pool for up to 12 months. During this time, you can continue to work on improving your CRS score by gaining more education, language proficiency, or work experience. If you are able to increase your score and meet the minimum cutoff in a subsequent draw, you may receive an ITA for permanent residence.
5. How long does it take to get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) after submitting my profile?
The time it takes to receive an ITA after submitting your profile varies. Draws from the Express Entry pool usually happen every two weeks, but the date and time of each draw can vary. The number of candidates with higher CRS scores in the pool can also affect when you might receive an ITA. As such, it is not possible to predict exactly when an ITA will be issued for any particular candidate.
6. Do I need a job offer to apply for Express Entry?
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for Express Entry. However, having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA as it will give you additional points towards your CRS score.
7. Is there an age limit for applying through Express Entry?
No, there is no set age limit for applying through Express Entry. However, as age is one of the factors used in calculating your CRS score, being younger may give you more points towards your overall score.
8. Can I still apply for Express Entry if I have been refused entry into Canada before?
If you have been refused entry into Canada before and are deemed inadmissible by IRCC due to criminality or other reasons, it may affect your eligibility for the immigration programs under Express Entry. You should consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or consultant before applying to determine if there are any options available to overcome a previous refusal or inadmissibility issue.
9. What happens if I am invited but my application is incomplete?
If you are invited to apply for permanent residence but your application is incomplete, it will likely be refused. It is important to ensure that you have all the necessary supporting documents and information before submitting your application within the given 60 days.
10. Can I apply for Express Entry if I am already in Canada as a temporary worker or student?
Yes, if you are already in Canada with valid temporary status as a worker or student, you can apply for Express Entry under the Canadian Experience Class. However, it is important to note that having temporary status does not guarantee that you will be selected through Express Entry.
11. Do I need any funds to apply for Express Entry?
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members when you arrive in Canada. The exact amount of funds required varies depending on the size of your family and whether or not you have a job offer from a Canadian employer. You must provide proof of these funds when submitting your application.
12. Can my spouse also apply with me through Express Entry?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can also be included in your application for permanent residence through Express Entry, even if he/she does not meet the minimum requirements for one of the three immigration programs. However, including a spouse or common-law partner may affect your CRS score as well as require additional documentation and fees.
13. What happens after I become a permanent resident through Express Entry?
After becoming a permanent resident through Express Entry, you will have all the rights and benefits of being a Canadian citizen except for voting and holding certain government jobs. You can live, work and study anywhere in Canada, access healthcare and social services, sponsor eligible family members to immigrate to Canada, and eventually become eligible for Canadian citizenship.
14. Is there an option to extend my stay in Canada during the application process?
If you are currently in Canada under valid temporary status and your application for permanent residence through Express Entry is still in progress, you may be able to extend your stay by applying for a visitor visa or temporary work permit. However, approval of these applications is not guaranteed and will depend on various factors such as your current immigration status, the reason for wanting to extend your stay, and any potential risks of overstaying your authorized period of stay. It is recommended that you consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or consultant before making any decisions about extending your stay in Canada.
4. What documents do I need to submit for Express Entry?
The documents required for Express Entry are:
1. Valid passport or travel document
2. Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP or TEF)
3. Education Credential Assessment (ECA) report from a designated organization
4. Proof of work experience (such as reference letters, employment contracts)
5. Provincial nomination (if applicable)
6. Proof of settlement funds
7. Marital status documents (marriage certificate, divorce certificate)
8. Police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for more than 6 months since the age of 18
9. Medical exam confirmation
It is important to note that some documents may vary depending on your personal situation and the specific immigration program you are applying for through Express Entry. It is always recommended to check the document checklist provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for your specific application before submitting any documents.
5. What is the minimum score required for Express Entry?
The minimum score required for Express Entry varies for each draw and is determined by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points system. In general, a higher CRS score will increase an applicant’s chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. The current minimum score required for Express Entry is usually around 450-470 points out of a possible 1200 points. However, this can change depending on the number of applicants and their qualifications in each draw. It is important to regularly check the minimum score requirements in order to determine your chances for selection.
6. How long does it take to process an Express Entry application?
The processing time for an Express Entry application depends on various factors, such as the specific immigration program being applied to, the completeness of the application, and the volume of applications currently being processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). However, typically it takes six months or less for most complete applications to be processed.
It is important to note that this processing time is only an estimation and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Delays can also occur if additional information or documents are requested by IRCC.
7. Can I submit an Express Entry application while living outside of Canada?
Yes, you can submit an Express Entry application while living outside of Canada. However, if you are invited to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry, you will need to provide proof of your immigration status in the country where you are currently residing. If you are not a citizen or permanent resident of that country, you may be required to obtain a visitor visa or temporary resident permit in order to travel to Canada and attend your immigration appointment. It is important to have a valid status in the country where you are residing during the application process, as your permanent residence application may be delayed or refused if you do not have this documentation in place.
8. Is a job offer required for Express Entry?
Yes, a job offer is required for certain categories within the Express Entry system. These include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and some Provincial Nominee Programs.
For the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Canadian Experience Class, applicants must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer before they can apply for permanent residence through Express Entry. The job offer must also meet specific requirements, such as being in an eligible occupation and meeting minimum wage requirements.
For certain Provincial Nominee Programs, having a job offer can award additional points towards an applicant’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry. This can increase their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.
However, there are also categories within Express Entry that do not require a job offer. This includes the Federal Skilled Trades Program and some Provincial Nominee Programs that do not award points for having a job offer.
Overall, while a valid job offer is not always required for Express Entry, it can significantly benefit an applicant’s chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.
9. How can I improve my chances of getting selected from the Express Entry pool?
1. Improve Your Language Skills: Language proficiency is a crucial factor in the Express Entry system. You can improve your chances of selection by achieving high scores on language tests like IELTS or CELPIP.
2. Increase Your Education Level: The higher your education level, the more points you will receive in the Express Entry system. Consider furthering your education to improve your chances of selection.
3. Gain More Work Experience: Candidates with more work experience are considered more valuable to the Canadian labor market and will receive higher points in the Express Entry system. Try to gain as much relevant work experience as possible before applying.
4. Research and Target Specific Provinces: Each province in Canada has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that selects candidates from the Express Entry pool based on their specific needs and criteria. Research which provinces have a high demand for your skills and target them in your application.
5. Get a Job Offer: Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly increase your chances of selection from the Express Entry pool.
6. Meet the Minimum Requirements: Make sure you meet all the minimum requirements for immigrating to Canada through Express Entry, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and funds.
7. Keep Your Profile Updated: It is essential to keep your profile up-to-date with any changes in your personal circumstances or qualifications to ensure accurate scoring and avoid missing out on selection opportunities.
8. Seek Professional Help: Consider seeking guidance from an immigration consultant or lawyer who is familiar with the Canadian immigration system. They can help you create a strong application and guide you through the process.
9. Be Persistent: Landing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) may take time, so it’s essential not to get discouraged if you are not selected immediately from the pool. Keep improving your profile and stay proactive in searching for potential employers or PNP opportunities that align with your skills and qualifications.
10. Is there an age limit for applying through the Express Entry system?
There is no age limit for applying through the Express Entry system. However, candidates over the age of 45 may have a lower chance of being selected by employers or receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence due to points systems used in the selection process.
11. Can I include my spouse and dependent children in my application for permanent residency through express entry?
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner, as well as any dependent children under the age of 22, in your application for permanent residency through express entry. The Canadian government recognizes the importance of family unity and allows applicants to bring their immediate family members with them to Canada. Your spouse or partner will also be eligible for permanent residency if they meet the necessary requirements. It is important to note that each family member included in your application will have to undergo medical and security checks and may be required to submit their own supporting documents. Additionally, adding dependents may affect your overall Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, so it is important to carefully evaluate the impact on your application before including them.
12. Can I sponsor my parents or grandparents through express entry?
No, currently there is no specific program under express entry that allows for sponsoring parents or grandparents for permanent residency. However, you can still sponsor them through other immigration programs such as the Family Class Sponsorship Program or the Super Visa Program. These programs have different eligibility criteria and application processes, so it is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or authorized representative to determine which one would be most suitable for your specific situation.
13.Can my employer apply for my permanent residency through express entry?
Yes, if you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer and meet all eligibility requirements, including language proficiency and education qualifications, your employer can support your application for permanent residency through express entry. This process falls under one of the streams within Express Entry called the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
14. Can I apply for permanent residency through express entry without a job offer?
Yes, you can still apply for permanent residency through express entry without a job offer from a Canadian employer. However, having a valid job offer may increase your chances of being selected and receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). With a job offer, you may also be eligible to receive additional points on your CRS score, which can help boost your overall ranking in the pool of express entry candidates.
12. Do I need to have a certain level of education to be eligible for express entry?
Yes, you must have at least a high school diploma or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) showing that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma. Having a higher level of education, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher, can give you additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which is used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. However, having a certain level of education is not a requirement to be eligible for express entry; it will depend on your overall profile and how many points you score in other criteria such as work experience, language proficiency, and age.
13. Will my work experience outside of Canada count towards my express entry application?
Yes, your work experience outside of Canada may count towards your express entry application. Under the Canadian Experience Class, you can claim points for foreign work experience if it meets certain criteria. The work experience must be considered skilled work (NOC 0, A, or B) and must have been gained within the last 10 years. Additionally, you must have worked in a full-time capacity (at least 30 hours per week) and have been paid for your work. It is important to note that only one year of continuous full-time work experience will be counted towards your express entry profile.
14. Are there any English or French language requirements for express entry applicants?
Yes, applicants must prove proficiency in either English or French by taking a language test approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The minimum language requirements vary depending on the program being applied for. In general, the higher the score on the language test, the more points an applicant can claim under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
15. What is the purpose of a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS. score in express entry?
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool and determine their eligibility for permanent residence in Canada. The purpose of this score is to assess a candidate’s overall profile based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, and other adaptability factors. It also accounts for additional points that may be awarded for having a qualifying job offer or provincial nomination. A higher CRS score gives a candidate a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in one of the Express Entry draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
16. Can I apply for permanent residency through both provincial nominee programs and express entry at the same time?
Yes, you are allowed to apply for permanent residency through both the provincial nominee programs and Express Entry at the same time. However, if you receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency through either program, you will need to choose one and decline the other application. It is important to note that if you have received a nomination from a province or territory, it will significantly increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. Therefore, it may be more beneficial to focus on one application at a time in order to maximize your chances of success.
17. Are there medical and criminal background checks involved in applying through express entry?
Yes, medical and criminal background checks are required for all applicants in the Express Entry system. These checks must be completed before the final decision is made on an application. Applicants may need to submit police certificates from any country where they have resided for 6 months or longer since turning 18, as well as undergo a medical examination by a designated physician. These checks help to determine if an applicant is admissible to Canada and poses no threat to public health or safety.
18.Can I still apply for Canadian permanent residency if my CRS score is below the cut-off threshold?
Yes, you can still apply for Canadian permanent residency if your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is below the cut-off threshold. The CRS is a points-based system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. The cut-off threshold is the minimum CRS score required for candidates to be invited to apply for permanent residency through one of the Express Entry programs.
If your CRS score is below the cut-off threshold, it means that you did not receive an invitation to apply during one of the regular draws held by IRCC. However, there are other ways you may still be eligible to apply for permanent residency:
1. Improve Your CRS Score: One option is to take steps to improve your CRS score. This could include retaking language tests to try and improve language proficiency scores or gaining additional work experience in Canada or abroad.
2. Apply Through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Many provinces in Canada have their own immigration programs called Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs are designed to meet specific labour market needs of each province and offer unique pathways to permanent residency. Each PNP has its own set of eligibility requirements, but many do not require a high CRS score.
3. Apply Through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have at least two years of qualified work experience in a skilled trade in Canada or at least one year of qualified work experience in Canada under a skilled occupation, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the FSTP or CEC programs with lower CRS scores.
It’s important to note that having a CRS score above the cut-off threshold does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residency. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the Express Entry programs and submit a complete application with all required documents, you may still be considered for permanent residency. It’s always best to consult with an immigration professional for personalized advice on your situation.
19.What happens if I am selected from the express entry pool?
If you are selected from the express entry pool, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. An ITA allows you to complete your application for permanent residence within a specified timeframe. You must ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and submit all required documents within the given timeframe in order to continue with your application for permanent residence.
20.Does having a relative in Canada increase my chances of being selected from the express entry pool?
No, having a relative in Canada does not increase your chances of being selected from the express entry pool. The Express Entry system uses a point-based system to select candidates based on their age, education, work experience, language skills, and other factors. Having a relative in Canada may give you additional points if they are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and can sponsor you for permanent residency through the family sponsorship program. However, this does not guarantee selection from the express entry pool as there are many other factors that can affect your overall score.