Express Entry explained

Before you create a profile

You will need:

• Language test results from an approved test: IELTS General Training, CELPIP or PTE Core for English, and TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French. Results are valid for two years.
• An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for any degree gained outside Canada, from an approved organisation such as WES. This can take several weeks, so start early.
• Details of your work history, including job duties that match a NOC (National Occupational Classification) code and TEER level.
• A valid passport.

How CRS points work

The Comprehensive Ranking System gives up to 1,200 points. The main factors are:

• Age: Points peak between 20 and 29 and fall each year after that.
• Education: Higher for master's and doctoral degrees.
• Language: The single biggest lever for most people. Moving from CLB 8 to CLB 9 or above in all abilities can add dozens of points.
• Canadian work experience
• Skill transferability: Combinations of education, language and experience.
• Additional points: Provincial nomination, French ability, Canadian study, a sibling in Canada.

General and category-based draws

IRCC runs regular draws. Some are general, while others target categories such as French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, trades, education and certain STEM occupations. Category draws often have lower cut-offs, so check whether your occupation qualifies. The categories and their priority change each year.

After you receive an invitation

You have 60 days to submit a complete application. This includes:

• Police certificates from every country where you lived six months or more since age 18
• A medical exam with an IRCC panel physician
• Proof of funds, unless you apply under CEC or have a valid job offer
• Reference letters for every job you claimed, with duties, hours and salary
• Biometrics after submission

Processing typically takes around six months, though it varies.

Proof of funds

FSWP and FSTP applicants must show settlement funds that depend on family size. The amounts are updated every year. The money must be available and yours, and you usually need to show it has been in your account for some time. Gifts from family should be documented with a gift letter.

A realistic path

Many successful applicants did not score high enough on their first profile. They improved language scores, completed another year of work, studied in Canada, or applied to a province. Create your profile as soon as you are eligible, keep it updated, and treat the process as a project over several months.

This guide is general information for planning. Rules and prices change, so always confirm with the official source before you apply or sign anything.