Express Entry Application and Scoring: A Comprehensive Guide
Express Entry is a system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage and process applications for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada. It involves a two-step process where applicants first submit their profile into the Express Entry pool and then receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on their qualifications. The highest-ranking candidates are then invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
The Two-Step Process of Express Entry
The first step of the Express Entry process is creating an online profile with the IRCC website. During this step, you will provide information about your skills, work experience, education, language ability, and other personal details. Once your profile is accepted, you will be entered into the Express Entry pool of candidates. While in the pool, you will receive a CRS score based on a variety of factors including:
- Age
- Language ability in English or French
- Education level
- Work experience
- Arranged employment in Canada
- Adaptability factors like spouse or partner’s language skills or previous work or study in Canada
The second step in the process is being invited to apply for permanent residency. The IRCC holds regular rounds of invitations and invites the highest-scoring candidates to apply for permanent residency. If you receive an invitation, you will have 90 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency.
Scoring System for Express Entry
The scoring system used in Express Entry is called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS awards points for six different factors:
1. Core/human capital factors
The first set of factors considered are your age, education, and language skills. The maximum points available in this category are 460.
2. Spouse or common-law partner factors
If you have a spouse or common-law partner who is also immigrating with you, you can earn extra points based on their language skills, education, and work experience. The maximum points available in this category are 40.
3. Skill transferability factors
If you have a combination of education, work experience, and language skills that makes you more employable in Canada, you can earn additional points. The maximum points available in this category are 100.
4. Additional points
You may also earn additional points for factors such as a provincial nomination, French language proficiency, a sibling living in Canada, or previous work or study in Canada. The maximum points available in this category are 600.
FAQs about Express Entry
Q: What is the minimum score required to be invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada?
A: The minimum score required varies with each round of invitations. It is typically between 440 and 470 points, but it can be higher or lower depending on the needs of the Canadian labor market.
Q: How long does it take to complete the Express Entry process?
A: The process can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more. It depends on factors like the current processing times, the complexity of your application, and how quickly you respond to requests for additional information from the IRCC.
Q: Is there an application fee for Express Entry?
A: Yes, there is a non-refundable fee of CAD $1,325 to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry.
Q: Can I apply for Express Entry if I don’t have a job offer in Canada?
A: Yes, you can still apply for Express Entry if you don’t have a job offer in Canada. However, having a job offer or a provincial nomination can increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.
Q: Can I include my family members in my Express Entry application?
A: Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application. They will also need to meet eligibility requirements and have their language skills and education assessed.
Conclusion
Express Entry is a popular system used by skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada. It involves a two-step process where applicants first submit their profile into the Express Entry pool and then receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on their qualifications. The highest-ranking candidates are then invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Understanding how the scoring system works and what factors are considered can help you maximize your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.