How Express Entry works?

Check Eligibility and Prepare Documents Before applying, candidates must confirm they meet the minimum requirements for one of three federal programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program. At this stage, applicants must obtain essential documents to prove their qualifications, including official language test results (such as IELTS or CELPIP) and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for any foreign degrees.

Create and Submit a Profile Eligible candidates use the official government portal to create an online Expression of Interest profile. Applicants have 60 days to input their detailed information regarding age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The system uses this data to automatically calculate a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score out of 1,200 possible points. Once submitted, the profile enters a global pool of candidates.

Await an Invitation to Apply (ITA) The Canadian government regularly holds selection rounds, or "draws," from the candidate pool. During a draw, a minimum CRS cut-off score is announced, and candidates who meet or exceed this score receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. A profile remains active in the pool for up to 12 months while awaiting selection. ​

Submit the Final Application Upon receiving an ITA, candidates are granted exactly 60 days to submit a complete electronic permanent residence application. This critical step involves paying mandatory processing and biometrics fees and uploading extensive supporting documentation. Required files typically include police clearance certificates, medical examination results, proof of funds, and scanned identity documents.

Processing and Approval Once the complete application is submitted, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) begins its review. During this period, candidates may be asked to submit biometrics or additional information. IRCC aims to process the majority of Express Entry applications within six months. Successful applicants receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), officially allowing them to immigrate to Canada.