Express Entry
A Streamlined Pathway to Permanent Residency
Launched in January 2015, Express Entry is an electronic system introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residency under key economic immigration programs. This efficient and transparent system addresses Canada’s labour market needs, supporting economic growth and long-term prosperity.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry simplifies and streamlines the application process for permanent residency. It manages applications for the following economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Two Steps of the Express Entry System
Complete an Online Express Entry Profile:
- Submit personal details, including education, work experience, and skills.
- Create a comprehensive profile to demonstrate eligibility for one of the economic programs.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Permanent Residence:
Candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.
Express Entry Details and Success Tips
Create an Online Profile
Ensure accurate and complete information about your qualifications and skills.
Improve Your CRS Score: Gain extra points through:
- A job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- A provincial nomination from a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Exceptional language skills or advanced educat
Receive an ITA
Only top-ranking candidates in the Express Entry pool receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Applicants have 60 days to submit a complete application.
Factors That Boost CRS Scores
- LMIA-backed job offers.
- Provincial nominations, which provide an additional 600 CRS points.
- French-language proficiency, which has been a key focus in 2024 Express Entry draws.
Tips for Success in Express Entry
- Upgrade your education, gain more work experience, and improve language test scores (IELTS or CELPIP) to increase your CRS score.
- Job offers with LMIA or provincial nominations significantly boost your profile.
- Expert guidance helps ensure a strong profile and optimized application, increasing your chances of selection.
Recent Updates and Changes in 2024
Category-Based Selection
IRCC introduced category-based rounds of invitations, focusing on specific economic priorities.
These categories include:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare occupations
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations
- Trade occupations
- Transport occupations
- Agriculture and agri-food occupations
Express Entry Draws in 2024
IRCC conducted 52 Express Entry draws, issuing 98,903 ITAs—a notable increase compared to previous years.
CRS Score Range:
- Minimum CRS score in 2024: 336 (French-language proficiency category).
- Maximum CRS score in 2024: 816 (PNP-specific draws).
Looking Ahead to 2025
- Continued Focus on French-Language Proficiency – French-language proficiency draws have been held consistently and are expected to remain a priority in the Express Entry system.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – PNP-specific draws continue to play a key role in selecting skilled workers to address provincial labour market needs.
