Canada Express Entry Application Process

Canada Express Entry: Your Fast Track to Canadian PR

What is Canada Express Entry?

Canada Express Entry is the federal immigration system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for three skilled worker programs:

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

This streamlined system aims to bring in skilled immigrants quickly—80% receive permanent resident (PR) status within 6 months.

Your Canada Express Entry Journey – Step by Step

1. Step 1: Check Eligibility

   Evaluate age, education, language, and work experience. You can also take the Y-Axis CRS Points Calculator test for a quick estimate.

2. Step 2: Build & Submit Your Express Entry Profile

3. Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

   Invitations are issued based on your CRS score and program draw thresholds.

4. Step 4: Apply for PR

   Once you receive an ITA, submit your application within 60 days and complete medical and criminal background checks.

Who Can Apply? Key Requirements

Age, Education, Language, and Work Experience: These factors determine your eligibility and CRS score.

Program-Specific Criteria:

• FSWP: 1-year skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0–3), CLB 7+, no Canadian experience required.
• CEC: One year of Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0–3) and required language benchmarks.

Fast Processing & Fee Breakdown

Overall Processing Time: Most Express Entry applications complete within 6 to 8 months.

Fee Estimates:

• Express Entry (FSW, FSTP, CEC): CAD 1,325 (includes processing and PR right fees)
• Breakdown differences depending on program—for example, FSWP has a separate structure as per IRCC fee schedule.

Why Choose Canada Express Entry?

• Speed: One of the fastest routes to PR, with 80% processed within 6 months.
• High Selection Rate: Over 300,000 ITAs expected in 2025.
• Eligibility Across Canada: Once you're a PR, you have freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada—and potentially gain citizenship after a few years.