Express Entry Complete Guide

Master Canada's flagship immigration system: From profile creation to landing as a permanent resident.

6-12 months
Average Processing Time
67/100
FSW Minimum Points
470+
Competitive CRS Score

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada's online immigration application management system for skilled workers. It manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

FSW
Federal Skilled Worker Program

For skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.

CEC
Canadian Experience Class

For skilled workers with Canadian work experience who want to become permanent residents.

FST
Federal Skilled Trades Program

For skilled tradespeople who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade.

Eligibility Requirements

Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)

You must score at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSW points grid:

  • Education: Maximum 25 points (PhD = 25, Master's = 23, Bachelor's = 21)
  • Language: Maximum 28 points (First official language = 24, Second = 4)
  • Work Experience: Maximum 15 points (6+ years = 15)
  • Age: Maximum 12 points (18-35 years = 12)

Additional Requirements:

  • • At least 1 year of continuous full-time skilled work experience
  • • Language test results showing CLB 7 or higher
  • • Sufficient settlement funds

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada in the last 3 years
  • Language test results: CLB 7 for NOC 0/1, CLB 5 for NOC 2/3

CEC Advantage: No settlement funds required if currently working in Canada!

Step-by-Step Application Process

1
Determine Eligibility

Check if you meet the minimum requirements for FSW, CEC, or FST.

→ Take our free CRS assessment
2
Prepare Documents
  • • Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF)
  • • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
  • • Proof of work experience
3
Create Express Entry Profile

Submit your profile online through IRCC. You'll receive a CRS score.

4
Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA)

IRCC conducts draws every 2 weeks and invites the highest-ranking candidates.

5
Submit Full Application

You have 60 days from ITA to submit!

Ready to Start Your Express Entry Journey?

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Generated and reviewed by PRCan AI

An automated immigration analysis system trained on IRCC regulations, program guides, and official government documentation. Learn more about PRCan AI →

Express Entry Complete Guide - FSW, CEC, FST Programs | PRCan.ca