What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residence. Launched in 2015, this online system manages applications for Canada’s three main federal economic immigration programs, using a competitive points-based ranking system to select the most qualified candidates.

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How It Works

Express Entry operates as a two-step process: first, you create an online profile and enter the candidate pool. Then, if you rank high enough, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

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Fast Processing

Most applications processed within 6 months of receiving a complete application, making Express Entry one of the fastest immigration pathways to Canada.

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Points-Based Selection

Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on factors like age, education, language skills, work experience, and Canadian connections.

Express Entry Programs

Express Entry manages three federal economic immigration programs. You must be eligible for at least one to create a profile.

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Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

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

  • At least 1 year continuous skilled work experience
  • Language proficiency: CLB 7 minimum
  • Canadian high school education or equivalent
  • Score 67/100 on selection factors
  • Proof of funds required
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

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

  • At least 1 year Canadian work experience
  • Work experience in skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3)
  • Language proficiency based on NOC category
  • Plan to live outside Quebec
  • No proof of funds required if working in Canada
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

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

  • At least 2 years work experience in skilled trade
  • Valid job offer OR certificate of qualification
  • Language proficiency: CLB 5 (speaking/listening), CLB 4 (reading/writing)
  • Trade must be in eligible NOC groups
  • Proof of funds required
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Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Get nominated by a Canadian province or territory, adding 600 points to your CRS score.

  • Meet eligibility for FSWP, CEC, or FSTP
  • Apply to specific provincial program
  • Receive provincial nomination
  • 600 additional CRS points guaranteed
  • Commit to living in nominating province

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

Your CRS score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool. Maximum possible score is 1,200 points.

Up to 500

Core Factors

Age (max 110), Education (max 150), Language (max 160), Canadian work experience (max 80)

Up to 100

Skills Transferability

Combinations of education, work experience, and language ability that demonstrate adaptability

Up to 600

Additional Factors

Spouse factors (max 40), Skills transferability (max 100), Additional points (max 600 for PNP nomination)

Important Update: As of March 25, 2025, job offer points have been removed from the CRS.

See Full CRS Breakdown

Latest Express Entry Draws 2025

Draw Date Draw Type Invitations CRS Cut-off
Aug 15, 2025 All-Program 4,500 498
Aug 1, 2025 Healthcare (Category) 2,200 445
Jul 18, 2025 All-Program 4,000 501
Jul 4, 2025 STEM (Category) 1,800 462
Jun 20, 2025 All-Program 4,200 505

Draw data is for illustrative purposes and is subject to change.

The Express Entry Process

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Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm you meet the criteria for at least one of the three federal programs (FSWP, CEC, or FSTP). Use the official IRCC tool to check your eligibility.

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Step 2: Create Profile

Gather your documents (language test results, education credential assessment) and create an online Express Entry profile. You will be entered into the pool of candidates.

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Step 3: Receive an ITA

If your CRS score is high enough in an Express Entry draw, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. This is a crucial step.

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Step 4: Submit Application

You have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application, including all supporting documents and fees, to IRCC.

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Step 5: Get Approved

IRCC reviews your application. If everything is in order and you pass security and medical checks, you will be approved for permanent residence.

Tips for Express Entry Success

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Boost Your Language Skills

A high score on your English (IELTS/CELPIP) or French (TEF/TCF) language test can significantly increase your CRS score. Aim for a CLB 9 or higher if possible.

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Get a Provincial Nomination

Receiving a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination adds an automatic 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw.

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Consider Canadian Education

Completing a Canadian degree or diploma can earn you up to 30 additional CRS points and may make you eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

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Gain Canadian Work Experience

Canadian work experience is highly valued. A minimum of one year of skilled work experience in Canada makes you eligible for the CEC and boosts your CRS score.

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Update Your Profile

Always update your profile with any changes, such as new work experience, a higher language test score, or a new degree. These updates can improve your ranking.

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Seek Professional Help

Consider consulting with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer to ensure your application is accurate and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum CRS score needed for Express Entry?

There is no fixed minimum CRS score. Cut-off scores vary with each draw depending on the number of candidates in the pool and the type of draw. In 2025, general draw cut-offs have ranged from 470-534, while category-specific draws often have lower cut-offs (e.g., French draws around 481, skilled trades around 388).

How long does Express Entry processing take?

IRCC processes most complete Express Entry applications within 6 months of receiving them. This timeline starts after you submit your complete application following an ITA, not from when you create your initial profile.

Can I apply for Express Entry from inside Canada?

Yes, you can apply for Express Entry while in Canada on a temporary status (visitor, worker, student). Your location doesn’t affect your eligibility or processing.

Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?

A job offer is not required for most Express Entry programs (FSWP and CEC). However, it may be required for FSTP candidates without a certificate of qualification. Note: As of March 2025, job offers no longer provide additional CRS points.

What happens if my Express Entry profile expires?

Express Entry profiles are valid for 12 months. If your profile expires without receiving an ITA, you can create a new profile if you still meet the eligibility requirements.

How often does IRCC conduct Express Entry draws?

IRCC typically conducts Express Entry draws every 2-3 weeks, though frequency can vary. In 2025, there have been both general draws and category-specific draws.

What are category-based draws?

Category-based selection allows IRCC to invite candidates with specific attributes like French language skills, healthcare experience, or work in skilled trades.

How much does Express Entry cost?

Creating an Express Entry profile is free. If you receive an ITA, the permanent residence application fee is CAD $1,525 for the main applicant, CAD $1,525 for spouse/partner, and CAD $260 per dependent child.