Canada Express Entry is a point-based fast-track immigration system that allows skilled workers immigrate to Canada. In the express entry, candidates are ranked based on their skills, experience and other factors, and the highest-ranked candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
A key feature of Canada express entry is that it is relatively fast and an easy way to immigrate to Canada. The processing time for express entry applications are typically around six months, and there are no specific requirements for where candidates must live or work after they immigrate.
Today we shall discuss how you can immigrate through the Canada express entry.
Table of Contents
How to Immigrate via the Canada Express Entry
To immigrate to Canada via the express entry pathway, here are steps to follow;
1. Determine your Eligibility
To qualify for Canada express entry, you’ll have to meet certain eligibility like;
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid international passport.
- Meet the minimum requirements for work experience, education level, and language skills.
- Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (optional, but will give you extra points).
- Be able to support yourself and your family financially.
- Be admissible to Canada.
2. Begin Application Process
Canada Express Entry application process is relatively straightforward. You will need to create an online profile where you fill and submit your application and documentation.
Your profile will then be assessed and upon successful assessment, you will be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS score is based on your work experience, education level, language skills, and other factors.
The top-scoring candidates in the express entry pool are then invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada. If you are invited to apply, you will need to submit additional documentation and undergo a medical examination.
3. Organize your Documents
Each phase of the express entry is peculiar and as such requires certain documentations during the application process. You may not be required to upload certain documents to your profile, but you should keep these documents at arms reach.
Here is a list of documents that you’ll need during the process;
- International passport or travel document
- Language test result such as IELTS, TOEFL, DUOLINGO, etc.
- Academic certificates
- Provincial nomination
- Proof of work experience
- Police certificates
- Medical exam result
- Proof of funds
- Common-Law union form (PDF)
- Marriage certificate
- Birth/Adoption Certificate
- Job offer or letter of employment from a Canadian employer
To be considered a valid job offer for Canada Express Entry, the offer must be:
- For a minimum of one year
- For a skilled occupation (NOC 0, 1, 2, or 3)
- Supported by a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or exempt from requiring one.
4. Wait in the Pool of Canada Express Entry Applicants
While you wait, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if your application is approved and afterwards you have 60 days to submit a complete application.
During the period in the pool, consider doing the following;
- Check and organize your documents.
- Reapply if your application is denied.
- Find a job if you’re yet to secure a job offer.
- Update your profile for newly added information about you.
- Contact Provinces or Territories for nominations as it increases your score.
5. Proactive Steps if You Don’t Receive an ITA
If you are not invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada through express entry, here are a few things you can do:
- Improve your CRS score by improving your language proficiency, gaining work experience in a skilled occupation, completing a post-secondary education program in Canada or another country with a common-law system.
- As a spouse, you can claim points for your spouse or common-law partner if you speak multiple language proficiently, have a high level of education, and have a work experience.
- Re-enter the Express Entry pool
- Consider other immigration options such as the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Because flexibility is a key feature of Canada Express Entry, you’re at liberty to choose what province and city you get to relocate to. Here’s an article about 10 best cities you can live in Canada.
