#2. A Complete Guide to Canada’s Express Entry Program in 2024
Canada’s Express Entry program is a popular immigration pathway for skilled workers aiming to become permanent residents. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Express Entry, including eligibility requirements, the application process, and tips to improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for three main federal immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
Candidates must submit an Express Entry profile to be considered. The system uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and rank profiles, assigning a score out of 1,200 points. Those with competitive scores are invited to apply for Canadian permanent residence.
Eligibility Requirements for Express Entry
To submit an Express Entry profile, you must meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three federal programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Requires at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW): Requires skilled work experience, education, and language proficiency.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST): Requires qualification in a skilled trade and either a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification.
How to Submit Your Express Entry Profile
The Express Entry application process involves three main steps:
- Profile Submission: Submit your profile with required documents, including:
- Language Test Results (eg. IELTS)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Passport or Travel Document
- CRS Score Assignment: After submitting your profile, you will receive a CRS score and enter the candidate pool. Regularly update your profile to improve your score and chances of receiving an invitation.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your CRS score is competitive, you may be selected in an Express Entry draw and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Explained
The CRS score is a crucial component of Express Entry, determining your rank within the candidate pool. Factors influencing your CRS score include:
- Age
- Education level
- Language proficiency (English and/or French)
- Work experience (both foreign and Canadian)
- Spouse or common-law partner factors
- Connections to Canada
Improving your CRS score can significantly enhance your chances of receiving an ITA. Key strategies include gaining additional work experience, improving language test scores, obtaining a provincial nomination, or securing a valid job offer in Canada.
Costs Associated with Express Entry
The cost of immigrating to Canada through Express Entry is approximately $2,300 CAD for a single applicant or $4,500 CAD for a couple. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Language Tests: ~$300 CAD
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): ~$200 CAD
- Biometrics: $85 CAD per person
- Government Fees: $1,525 CAD per adult, $260 CAD per child
- Medical Examination: ~$450 CAD per adult, $250 CAD per child
- Police Clearance Certificates: ~$100 CAD per country
No fees are required to submit your initial Express Entry profile. Fees are only required once you receive an ITA.
Settlement Funds Requirement
Unless applying under the Canadian Experience Class or having a valid job offer, you must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your resettlement in Canada. Here are the updated amounts as of June 2024:
|
Number of Family Members |
Funds Required |
|
1 |
$14,690 CAD |
|
2 |
$18,288 CAD |
|
3 |
$22,483 CAD |
|
4 |
$27,297 CAD |
|
5 |
$30,690 CAD |
|
6 |
$34,917 CAD |
|
7 |
$38,875 CAD |
|
Each additional member |
$3,958 CAD |
How to Improve Your CRS Score
Here are ways to boost your CRS score:
- Higher Language Proficiency: Aim for a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 9 or higher.
- Bilingualism: Proficiency in both English and French can earn additional points.
- Advanced Education: Holding a Master’s degree or Ph.D. can improve your score.
- Canadian Work/Educational Experience: Having experience or education in Canada can give you an edge.
- Provincial Nomination: Receiving a provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score.
Express Entry Draw Process
Express Entry draws are typically held every two weeks, with the government setting a minimum CRS score cut-off. Candidates above the cut-off receive an ITA. The minimum CRS score required changes with each draw, so it's important to keep your profile updated and explore ways to enhance your score.
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For the latest Express Entry draw results (you have to scroll half-way down the page under "Results: Round of Invitations"), click: LATEST DRAW RESULTS
For the official IRCC Express Entry page for more detailed government information about the program, click: EXPRESS ENTRY PROGRAM
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Canada’s Express Entry system is a competitive but rewarding pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residence. By understanding the requirements, preparing a strong profile, and strategically improving your CRS score, you can increase your chances of success.
Ready to start your journey? Contact D&D Law in Mississauga for a free consultation or follow us on our social media for more immigration tips!
Until our next article, take care and stay amazing! 🍁
D&D Law