
Express Entry Canada
An online system that is used to manage immigration applications from skilled workers
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Types of Express Entry Programs
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
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for skilled workers with eligible Canadian work experience
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work experience must have been gained in the 3 years before you apply
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Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
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for skilled workers with foreign or Canadian work experience
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must meet criteria for education and other factors
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
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for skilled workers who are qualified in a skilled trade
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must have a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification
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How Express Entry Works:
Express Entry involves two primary stages:
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Expression of Interest: Eligible candidates indicate their interest in obtaining Canadian permanent resident status.
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Invitation Rounds: The Canadian government conducts draws, inviting the top-scoring candidates to apply for permanent residence.
Draw Types:
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General Rounds: Candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are invited to apply for permanent residence.
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Program-Specific Rounds: Invitations are issued to candidates with the highest CRS scores who qualify for a specific Express Entry program.
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Category-Based Rounds: Candidates with the highest CRS scores in designated categories aimed at specific economic goals are invited.
Step-by-Step Process:
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Determine Eligibility: Verify that you meet the criteria for one of the Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
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Language Testing and ECA: Complete required language tests and, if necessary, obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
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Profile Submission: Create and submit your profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
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Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Wait for an ITA from IRCC.
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Submit Application for Permanent Residence (APR): Submit your APR along with required documents, such as medical exams and police certificates, and pay the application fees. IRCC will issue an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR).
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Biometrics Submission: Provide your biometrics when requested by IRCC.
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Final Decision: IRCC will review your application and make a decision. Approved applicants will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if applicable, a permanent resident visa to travel to Canada and finalize their status.
This streamlined process aims to finalize applications within six months or less, facilitating a swift transition to permanent residency for qualified candidates.
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Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score profiles and rank them in the Express Entry pool. It evaluates an individual's:
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Skills
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Education
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Language ability
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Work experience
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Other factors
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