Express Entry is the system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It’s designed to select candidates who are likely to succeed economically in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
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Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for Express Entry, you must qualify under one of the following federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Create an Express Entry Profile: Candidates who are eligible create an online profile in the Express Entry pool. They are then scored based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Regular draws are conducted from the pool of candidates, and those with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence. Having a job offer or provincial nomination can significantly boost your CRS score and increase your chances of receiving an ITA.
- Submit Permanent Residence Application: Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence, including supporting documents and fees.
- Medical and Criminal Checks: Applicants must undergo medical examinations and obtain police certificates to demonstrate that they are admissible to Canada.
- Processing Time: Once the application is submitted, processing times vary depending on factors such as the completeness of the application, the applicant’s country of origin, and whether additional security or medical checks are required.
- Permanent Residence: If the application is approved, the candidate and their family members (if applicable) become permanent residents of Canada, with all the rights and responsibilities that come with that status.
Express Entry is known for its efficiency and transparency compared to previous immigration systems. It aims to attract skilled workers who can contribute to Canada’s economy and integrate successfully into Canadian society.