Overview of Express Entry
Express Entry is a points-based immigration selection system introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for three major economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For individuals with skilled work experience and educational qualifications.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Tailored for those with experience in specific trades.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Designed for individuals with recent Canadian work experience.
Express Entry candidates are evaluated and ranked based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, with those having the highest scores receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR. This competitive system enables qualified applicants to become permanent residents quickly, based on skills, experience, and adaptability.
Core Factors in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Express Entry applicants are evaluated on multiple factors, including age, education, language skills, and work experience. These are grouped into three primary categories:
- Core Human Capital Factors: Evaluates age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience. These factors aim to assess the applicant’s long-term economic potential in Canada.
- Skills Transferability: Points are awarded based on combinations of education, foreign work experience, and language proficiency. Higher points are given to applicants whose skills are most likely to transfer successfully to the Canadian labor market.
- Additional Points: This section includes points for Canadian post-secondary education, arranged employment, provincial nominations, and siblings residing in Canada. Additional points can significantly boost an applicant’s CRS score
CRS Points Breakdown Chart
Below is a chart showing how points are distributed across different factors in the CRS.
| Factors | Sub-factors | Maximum points (No spouse/partner) | Maximum points (With spouse/partner) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Core human capital factors | Age | 110 | 100 |
| Education | 150 | 140 | |
| Language (First) | 136 | 128 | |
| Language (Second) | 24 | 22 | |
| Canadian work experience | 80 | 70 | |
| 2. Skills Transferability (maximum 100 points for this section) | Post-secondary Education with strong language or Canadian work experience | 50 | 50 |
| Foreign work experience with strong language or Canadian work experience | 50 | 50 | |
| Certificate of Qualification (trade occupations) | 50 | 50 | |
| 3. Additional Points (maximum 600 points for this section) | Canadian Post-Secondary Education (1-2 years) | 15 | 15 |
| Canadian Post-Secondary Education (3 years) | 30 | 30 | |
| Arranged Employment (NOC 0, A, B) | 50 | 50 | |
| Arranged Employment (NOC 00) | 200 | 200 | |
| Provincial/Territory (Express Entry) Nomination | 600 | 600 | |
| TOTAL | 1200 | 1160 – up to 40 points for spouse |
Maximizing Your CRS Score in Express Entry
LevLaw works with candidates to maximize their CRS score. Strategies may include enhancing language proficiency, securing provincial nominations, obtaining Canadian work experience, or exploring additional pathways to increase the overall score. We help applicants understand how points are awarded, guide them in improving their profiles, and provide support in submitting complete and accurate applications.
Express Entry Application Process
- Profile Submission: Eligible candidates create an Express Entry profile. The profile includes information on skills, work experience, language abilities, education, and other details relevant to calculating the CRS score.
- Entering the Pool: Once in the Express Entry pool, candidates are ranked against others based on their CRS score. Candidates with high scores receive invitations in regular draws conducted by IRCC.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If a candidate’s CRS score meets the cutoff in a draw, they will receive an ITA for PR. The ITA requires the applicant to submit a complete PR application within 60 days.
- Permanent Residency Application Submission: Upon receiving an ITA, applicants must submit their PR application, which includes supporting documents such as police certificates, medical exams, proof of work experience, and other relevant information.
- Final Review and Decision: IRCC reviews submitted PR applications and makes a final decision. Approved applicants are issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), allowing them to enter Canada as permanent residents.
Benefits of the Express Entry System
The Express Entry system offers expedited processing times for highly qualified candidates, with most applications finalized within six months. This system prioritizes candidates with high economic potential, ensuring that selected individuals contribute positively to the Canadian economy.
At LevLaw, we provide personalized support to Express Entry applicants, from initial eligibility assessments and profile creation to application submission and post-ITA documentation. Our team stays updated on CRS trends and IRCC’s latest policies to provide the most current guidance for applicants aiming to secure an ITA.
Our overview
Why Choose LevLaw?
With years of experience and a deep understanding of Canada’s immigration laws, we are the trusted choice for those seeking expert immigration support. Our firm is known for its hands-on approach, reliable legal strategies, and commitment to delivering successful results. We are proud to serve as advocates and advisors, ensuring that each client feels supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.
Our Mission
Founded with a passion for immigration law, LevLaw is committed to providing comprehensive and client-centered legal services. We believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at success and opportunity, and our mission is to guide our clients through the immigration process with skill, empathy, and dedication.
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