Understanding the Express Entry System

Canada uses the Express Entry System online to manage skilled worker immigration applications for permanent residency.

Express Entry manages applications for three immigration programs. Prior to creating your profile, you have to be sure that you meet the requirements of one of these programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

You can read the detailed requirements for each program at www.gc.ca. Check that your credentials align with and meet the specific requirements of each program, as eligibility criteria vary.

Check Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score:

CRS is a points-based system. Knowing your CRS score is crucial to assess your chances of receiving an ITA and figuring out how to boost your score if necessary. You can calculate your score using the Comprehensive Ranking System Tool published on www.gc.ca

Several factors, including education, language proficiency, work experience, skills, age, Canadian job offer, and spouse’s qualifications, influence your CRS score. Additional points are awarded for completion of a Canadian educational institution and Canadian experience.

A high overall score significantly increases your chances of being selected.

How the Express Entry System Works

1.After submitting your profile, it joins a pool with others applying for Express Entry.

2.The system will rank you against other profiles in the pool.

3.With the highest CRS score, the system will draw (select) your profile from the pool, and you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

4.Upon receiving your ITA

a.you must submit your full application for permanent residence within 60 days.
b.This includes application forms and a comprehensive package of supporting documentation verifying your claimed credentials from the profile.

5.Acknowledgement of Receipt of your Application (AOR):

IRCC will send you an AOR, which is a confirmation that your application was received, giving you the peace of mind that your case is tended to. You will also receive your application number, cementing the recognition of your file.

Once you submit your application, you might expect to receive questions from the IRCC officer processing your application. IRCC may request more information the further along they go, making it crucial for you to stay up-to-date with your profile.
IRCC will also provide you with updates on the processing process.

6.Express Entry Application Processing Time:
Processing times of an Express Entry application are usually 6-12 months; the IRCC is subject to change its program-specific application processing times, and it may take longer.

7.Updating your application

Once you have received your AOR and perhaps a significant change has happened in your life, you have to report it to the IRCC. Reporting changes are crucial as they can interrupt your immigration to Canada process. Such changes should be reported to IRCC:

Marital Status Change
Birth of dependent children
Change of address, including change of e-mail address.
Loss of a job offer or a Provincial or Territorial nomination.
Change in Criminal situation, etc

8.Medical Examination

Starting from October 1, 2023, you no longer need to undergo an upfront medical examination before submitting your Express Entry permanent residence application.
As a part of the process, expect to receive a request to undergo a medical examination from the IRCC. A Panel Physician, authorized by IRCC to conduct medical examinations, should perform the immigration medical exam.

9.Passport Request

You will receive a Passport Request (PPR) once IRCC has completed processing your application and is ready to issue your permanent residency documents.

Here You Will Get Step by Step Guide to Create Your Express Entry Profile

We at Jane Katkova & Associates have assisted thousands of clients to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry, with over 20 years of successfully practicing Canadian immigration law.

At Jane Katkova & Associates, we will answer your questions and guide you through the Express Entry application process, ensuring your high chances of approval and becoming a Canadian permanent resident.

Jane Katkova & Associates – Canada From Dream To Reality