Express Entry

Canada's main skilled-worker permanent-residence system, ranked by the CRS.

Express Entry manages three federal skilled-worker programs — the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Candidates are scored by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS); the highest-ranked are invited to apply for permanent residence in regular and category-based draws.

Who it’s for

  • Skilled workers with foreign or Canadian work experience
  • International graduates with Canadian work experience (CEC)
  • Candidates strong in age, education, and language (CLB)

Key facts

  • Profile is valid 12 months in the pool
  • A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points
  • Since March 25, 2025, a job offer no longer adds CRS points
  • Category-based draws target priority fields (e.g. healthcare, trades, French)

How it works

  1. Confirm eligibility & get documents: Take an approved language test (CELPIP/IELTS/PTE Core, or TEF/TCF), and get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if you studied abroad.
  2. Create your Express Entry profile: Submit your profile to enter the pool; your CRS score determines your rank.
  3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your score meets a draw cut-off, you are invited to apply for permanent residence.
  4. Submit the PR application: File a complete application with police, medical, and proof-of-funds documents within the deadline.

Eligibility highlights

  • Qualifying skilled work experience (TEER 0/1/2/3 depending on program)
  • Minimum language level (often CLB 7 for FSW)
  • Education (with an ECA for foreign credentials)
  • Proof of settlement funds unless exempt (e.g. CEC or an authorized job)

Official source

Information current as of June 2026; rules change frequently — always confirm on canada.ca.