Express Entry
"The PR Engine". Canada's flagship points-based system for managing Permanent Residency applications.
Points-Based
Express Entry is a competition, not a queue. Only the highest-scoring candidates are invited to apply. Score cut-offs change with every draw.
1The Points System (CRS)
Score to 1200
Every profile is ranked out of 1200 points. The core factors are Age, Education, Language Skills, and Canadian Work Experience.
2The 3 Streams
CEC
For those who have worked in Canada for at least 1 year in a skilled job (TEER 0, 1, 2, 3).
FSW
For skilled workers with foreign experience. requires 67/100 on a specific eligibility grid.
FST
For qualified tradespeople (Electricians, Plumbers, Chefs, etc.) with 2 years experience.
3The Process
Create Profile
Fill out details about your education, work, and language scores. This puts you in the "Pool".
The Draw
Every 2 weeks (approx), IRCC conducts a draw. If you are above the cut-off score, you get an ITA (Invitation to Apply).
Apply for PR
Submit verified documents and pay fees. Processing takes roughly 6 months.
4The 60-Day Timer
Strict Deadline
Once you receive an ITA, you have exactly 60 days to submit your complete Permanent Residency application. If you miss this window, your invitation expires and you must re-enter the pool.
5Document Checklist
ECA Report
Educational Credential Assessment (e.g., WES) to prove foreign degree equivalence.
Test Results
Valid IELTS or CELPIP (English) / TEF or TCF (French) results less than 2 years old.
Police Certs
Required for every country you have lived in for 6+ months in a row.
Proof of Funds
Bank letters showing settlement funds (unless you have a valid Canadian job offer).
6Costs (CAD)
Total per Adult
Child
7Category-Based Draws
Targeted Selection
IRCC now holds specific draws for candidates with experience in priority fields, often with lower CRS cut-offs.
8Strategy: Maxing Out
Language is Key
Improving your IELTS score from CLB 8 to CLB 9 (8777) can boost your score by up to 50 points due to cross-factor ability transfer.
PNP Leverage
Getting a Provincial Nomination (PNP) gives you +600 points, practically guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw.