Canada Express Entry
How Does Express Entry Work?
Express Entry manages applications for three key economic immigration programs:
Understanding Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each Canadian province and territory operates its own Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to select candidates from the Express Entry pool based on their specific labor market needs. With 10 provinces and 3 territories, each has unique eligibility criteria, application fees, in-demand occupations lists (TEER Category), and processing times.
Qualification for Canadian Permanent Residency
To qualify for Canadian permanent residency, applicants must meet the country’s immigration obligations and score at least 67 points under the points-based selection system. Eligible candidates create an Expression of Interest profile in the Express Entry system, providing accurate details such as age, education, work experience, job offers, accompanying family members, and more. Points are awarded based on these factors according to Canadian immigration standards. Once the profile is complete, it enters the application pool.
The Application Pool
This pool includes applications from global candidates seeking Canada PR visas. Periodic draws, conducted by Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC), select top-scoring candidates from the pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Successful candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency, confirming their eligibility to settle in Canada. ITAs can also be issued based on provincial nominations or job offers from Canadian employers. Additionally, points are awarded for factors like having family in Canada or proficiency in French, expediting the invitation process.
The Express Entry System
Express Entry is a streamlined electronic system designed to manage applications and issue invitations for Permanent Residency (PR), Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants. It’s a reliable and efficient way to achieve a successful visa application through an online platform. On average, two to four draws occur each month, issuing invitations to approximately 3,350 to 3,600 applicants since January 2019.
Canada’s Ambitious Immigration Plan
Canada’s immigration plan aims to welcome over 1 million new immigrants on PR visas in the next three years. For instance, the Immigration Levels Plan targets 465,000 immigrants in 2023, 485,000 in 2024, and 500,000 in 2025.
Regular Updates and Invitation Rounds
Express Entry provides regular updates on invitation rounds for Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Provincial Nominee programs, ensuring applicants stay informed.
From June 2023, Express Entry introduced significant changes to its invitation rounds, categorized into:
- General Rounds of Invitations: For eligible applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, or Canadian Experience Class programs.
- Program-Specific Rounds of Invitations: For eligible applicants under specific Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
- Category-Based Rounds of Invitations: Based on criteria such as language proficiency, specific work experience categories, and education.
Fastest Route to Permanent Residency
Securing Canadian permanent residency through a provincial nomination via the PNP program is considered one of the fastest routes. It allows provinces and territories to nominate immigrants to settle in specific regions of Canada.
For detailed eligibility information, consult with our Canada immigration consultants.