Express Entry is Canada’s program for managing skilled worker immigration applications. Because skilled workers are in high demand, the program helps approved applicants potentially get to Canada faster than through other immigration streams. Processing times are about six months.

Within Express entry are three programs: Federal Skilled Trades, Federal Skilled Worker and Canadian Experience Class. These three options make up the majority of programs potential immigrants choose to apply through, which makes Express Entry the most popular way to come to Canada. Some of the provincial Nominee Programs also offer an Express Entry option.

Express Entry is a selection system. Each program is based on a points system where candidates’ application elements create an overall application score. This means you are competing with other applications in order to be invited to apply to immigrate to Canada. 

Completing an online Express Entry profile will calculate a Comprehensive Ranking System score (CSR) for you, so you’ll need to do some of the work beforehand to ensure your score is as high as possible. Once the profile is submitted and approved, you will be included in the immigration pool the federal and provincial programs draw candidates from. 

This draw is done on a periodic basis to fill various needs. Those who meet or exceed the points required for that specific need and have other documentation in place, will be offered an Invitation to Apply from the federal or provincial government that drew them. You have 60 days following the invitation to respond with your application.

If you want to improve your chances of coming to Canada, tell us about yourself and we can help create a thorough Express Entry application.