What it is
Express Entry is IRCC’s online system managing PR applications for skilled workers across three programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Candidates create a profile, are ranked by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and top-ranked candidates get Invitations to Apply (ITA) through regular draws (general, program-specific, category-based).
Who is eligible (must qualify for at least one program)
FSWP: skilled work experience in an eligible occupation; 67+/100 on the FSW grid; language minimums; Canadian credential or ECA; settlement funds (unless valid job offer or authorized to work in Canada).
FSTP: 2+ years full-time skilled-trade experience in the last 5 years; valid 1-year+ job offer or provincial certificate of qualification; language minimums.
CEC: 1+ year skilled Canadian work experience in the last 3 years (authorized); language level for the occupation.
The process
- Confirm you meet one program’s criteria.
- Take an approved language test (IELTS General, CELPIP-General, TEF/TCF Canada).
- Get an ECA for foreign education.
- Create your profile; receive a CRS score.
- Wait for an ITA.
- If invited, submit the complete PR application within 60 days.
- IRCC review — most complete applications processed within 6 months.
How the CRS works
Points for: core human capital (age, education, language, work experience), spouse/partner factors, skill-transferability combinations, and additional factors — provincial nomination (600 points), valid job offer, Canadian education, French proficiency.
Document checklist
Language results (2-year validity); ECA; passports; work-experience proof (reference letters, pay slips, contracts); settlement-fund proof where required; police certificates; medical exams; nomination certificate (if any); job offer + LMIA (if any); IRCC-spec photos.
Important warnings
- A profile doesn’t guarantee an invitation — only top-ranked candidates are invited.
- Profile info must match documents exactly; misrepresentation means refusal and a 5-year ban.
- Language tests and ECAs expire — keep them valid at submission.
Based on official guidance from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Next step: Your CRS score and program choice decide everything. Contact Journey to West Immigration for a profile assessment and application strategy.