Express Entry - Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Worker

Express Entry is Canada's digital system for processing immigration applications from skilled workers aspiring for permanent residency. It covers programs like the Federal Skilled Worker and Canadian Experience Class. Applicants create a profile, and if they qualify for a program, they're ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This ranking considers age, education, experience, language proficiency, and more. Every two weeks, top-ranked candidates receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Calculate your CRS Score

Express Entry Programs

Here's a list of Canada's Express Entry and Federal Immigration Programs you can choose from:

Federal Skilled Worker Program

Care Giver Program Canada

Federal Skilled Trades Program

Canada Start-up visa Program

Canadian Experience Class Program

Atlantic Immigration Program

Provincial Nominee Program

Rural and Northern Immigration

Federal Self Employed Person

What is Express Entry Canada?

A. Definition and purpose

Express Entry is an online system introduced by the Canadian government in 2015 to streamline the immigration process for skilled workers. The primary purpose of Express Entry is to facilitate a faster and more efficient way for skilled workers from around the world to immigrate to Canada and contribute to the country's economy. It manages applications for three main federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

B. Overview of the immigration system

Express Entry uses a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for one or more of the federal economic immigration programs can create an online profile, which is then assigned a CRS score based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts Express Entry draws, in which candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence (PR). Additionally, some provinces and territories in Canada have their own Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that use the Express Entry system to nominate candidates for immigration.

C. Benefits of using Express Entry

There are several benefits of using the Express Entry system for skilled workers seeking to immigrate to Canada:

Faster processing times: The Express Entry system was designed to speed up the immigration process. Most applications are processed within six months, making it a quicker route to permanent residence compared to traditional immigration pathways.
Flexible eligibility requirements: Express Entry manages multiple immigration programs, allowing candidates with diverse skills, education levels, and work experience to find a suitable program for their profile.
Dynamic ranking system: The CRS allows candidates to improve their scores and increase their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. By gaining more work experience, improving language skills, or obtaining additional education, candidates can boost their CRS scores and potentially rank higher in the pool.
Provincial nomination opportunities: Many provinces and territories in Canada have PNPs aligned with the Express Entry system. Candidates who receive a provincial nomination get an additional 600 CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an ITA.
Transparent process: Express Entry provides a clear and transparent application process, enabling candidates to track their progress and stay informed about their status throughout the process.

Eligibility Criteria

A. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is aimed at skilled workers with foreign work experience who wish to immigrate to Canada permanently. To be eligible for the FSWP, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Work experience: At least one year of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a single occupation within the last ten years, classified under Skill Type 0, Level A, or Level B of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Language proficiency: Meet the minimum language proficiency threshold in either English or French (Canadian Language Benchmark 7 in all four language abilities - speaking, reading, writing, and listening).
Education: Possess a Canadian secondary or post-secondary credential, or a foreign educational credential along with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from an approved organization, which validates the equivalency of the foreign credential to Canadian standards.

Additionally, FSWP candidates are assessed on a points system based on six selection factors: age, education, work experience, language proficiency, arranged employment, and adaptability. A minimum of 67 points out of 100 is required to qualify for the FSWP.

B. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) targets skilled tradespeople with experience in specific trade occupations. To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

Work experience: Have at least two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a skilled trade occupation within the last five years.
Language proficiency: Meet the minimum language proficiency threshold in either English or French (Canadian Language Benchmark 5 for speaking and listening, and Canadian Language Benchmark 4 for reading and writing).
Trade certification or job offer: Hold a valid Canadian trade certification (e.g., Red Seal) or a valid job offer for full-time employment for at least one year in their skilled trade occupation.

The eligible skilled trade occupations are classified under Major Groups 72, 73, 82, 92, and Skill Level B of the NOC.

C. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is designed for skilled workers who have gained work experience in Canada and wish to obtain permanent residence. The eligibility criteria for the CEC include:

Work experience: At least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in Canada within the last three years in a NOC Skill Type 0, Level A, or Level B occupation.
Language proficiency: Meet the minimum language proficiency threshold in either English or French, based on the NOC skill level of their occupation (Canadian Language Benchmark 7 for NOC Skill Type 0 or Level A occupations, and Canadian Language Benchmark 5 for NOC Level B occupations).

D. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are immigration programs run by Canadian provinces and territories, allowing them to nominate candidates for permanent residence based on their specific needs and criteria. Many PNPs have streams aligned with the Express Entry system. Eligibility requirements for PNPs vary by province and program, but generally include factors such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and a genuine intention to live and work in the nominating province or territory.

To apply through a PNP, candidates must first create an Express Entry profile and then submit an application to the desired province or territory's PNP.

If they receive a provincial nomination, they will be awarded an additional 600 CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

How to Create an Express Entry Profile

A. Preparing necessary documents

Before creating an Express Entry profile, you should gather the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process.

1. Language test results

You must provide valid language test results in English or French, demonstrating your proficiency according to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). The test results should not be older than two years at the time of application. Accepted tests include IELTS or CELPIP for English and TEF or TCF for French. Use the CLB converter to understand how your test scores match the CLB levels.

2. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

If you have a foreign educational credential, you need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved organization to prove that your education is equivalent to Canadian standards. The ECA report should not be older than five years at the time of application.

3. Work experience documentation

Gather all relevant documents related to your work experience, such as employment letters, contracts, pay slips, and any other proof that demonstrates the duration, nature, and scope of your work in each occupation you've held.

B. Creating an online profile

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you can create an online profile by following these steps:

Visit the Government of Canada's Express Entry website and create an account.
Complete the personal information, work experience, education, language proficiency, and other relevant sections of the online form.
Use the CRS score calculator to estimate your CRS score based on the information provided in your profile.
Verify the accuracy of your profile and make any necessary corrections.
Save your completed profile.

C. Submitting your profile to the Express Entry pool

After creating your online profile, you can submit it to the Express Entry pool. Your profile will be ranked based on your CRS score, and if you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the federal economic immigration programs (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC), you will enter the pool of candidates. Keep in mind that your CRS score may change as your circumstances change, such as gaining more work experience or improving your language proficiency. Remember to update your profile accordingly to ensure an accurate CRS score.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based system used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool based on their skills, education, language ability, work experience, and other factors. A higher CRS score increases a candidate's chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

A. Understanding the CRS scoring system

The CRS awards points to candidates based on various factors that indicate their ability to adapt and contribute to the Canadian economy. The maximum CRS score a candidate can achieve is 1,200 points.

B. Factors affecting your CRS score

There are three main categories of factors that contribute to a candidate's CRS score:

1. Core human capital factors

These factors account for a maximum of 600 points and include:

Age: Candidates receive points based on their age at the time of application, with the maximum points awarded to those between 20 and 29 years old.
Education: Points are awarded for the candidate's level of education, including high school diplomas, trade certificates, college degrees, and postgraduate degrees.
Language proficiency: Candidates receive points for their ability in English and/or French, based on their test results in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Work experience: Points are awarded for the candidate's number of years of skilled work experience, with more points given for a longer duration of experience.

2. Skill transferability factors

These factors account for a maximum of 100 points and include:

Education and language ability: Candidates with higher levels of education and strong language skills receive additional points.
Education and work experience: Additional points are awarded to candidates with both higher education and work experience in their field.
Language ability and work experience: Candidates with strong language skills and work experience in their field receive extra points.
Certificate of qualification (for trade occupations): Skilled tradespeople with a valid trade certificate and strong language skills are awarded additional points.

3. Additional factors (e.g., job offer, provincial nomination)

These factors account for a maximum of 600 points and include:

Provincial nomination: Candidates who receive a provincial nomination get an additional 600 points, significantly boosting their CRS score.
Job offer: Points are awarded to candidates with a valid job offer in a skilled occupation (NOC Skill Type 0, Level A, or Level B).
Canadian study experience: Candidates with a Canadian post-secondary education can receive additional points.
Siblings in Canada: Points are awarded to candidates with a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and living in Canada.
French language proficiency: Candidates with strong French language skills can receive additional points.

C. Tips for improving your CRS score

There are several ways to improve your CRS score and increase your chances of receiving an ITA:

Improve your language proficiency: Retaking your language test to achieve a higher score can have a significant impact on your CRS score.
Gain more work experience: Increasing your skilled work experience can boost your CRS score, especially if you can obtain work experience in Canada.
Upgrade your education: Pursuing higher education or obtaining additional certifications can increase your CRS score.
Apply for a provincial nomination: If you receive a provincial nomination, you will gain an additional 600 CRS points, greatly improving your chances of receiving an ITA.
Secure a valid job offer: A job offer in a skilled occupation can increase your CRS score and improve your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.

Invitation to Apply (ITA) and Application Process

A. Receiving an ITA

An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to candidates in the Express Entry pool who have a high CRS score. ITAs are typically issued during periodic Express Entry draws. Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

B. Preparing your application

Once you have received an ITA, it's time to prepare your application for permanent residence.

1. Gathering required documents

Collect all necessary documents for your application, which may include:

Passport or travel document
Language test results
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report
Work experience documentation (employment letters, pay slips, etc.)
Proof of funds to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency
Marriage or divorce certificates, if applicable
Birth certificates for you and any dependents, if applicable
Adoption papers, if applicable

Ensure that all documents are translated into English or French, if necessary, by a certified translator.

2. Police certificates and medical exams

You and any accompanying family members must also provide:

Police certificates from each country where you have lived for six months or longer within the last ten years
Medical examination reports from an approved panel physician

C. Submitting your application

After gathering all required documents and completing the necessary forms, submit your application for permanent residence online through the IRCC website. Make sure to double-check all information for accuracy and completeness before submitting the application.

D. Application processing time and fees

The processing time for Express Entry applications varies but is typically around six months. However, this timeframe may change depending on factors such as application volume and the complexity of your case.

Application fees for Express Entry include:

Processing fee: CAD 850 per adult applicant and CAD 250 per dependent child
Right of permanent residence fee (RPRF): CAD 515 per adult applicant (not required for dependent children)

Fees must be paid online at the time of application submission.

E. Permanent Residence (PR) approval and next steps

Once your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable). You must then travel to Canada within the validity period of your COPR and visa (if applicable) to complete the landing process and officially become a permanent resident.

Upon arrival in Canada, you will need to present your COPR and passport to an immigration officer, who will verify your documents and grant you permanent resident status. Once you have permanent resident status, you can apply for a permanent resident card, which serves as proof of your status while living in Canada.

Express Entry Draw and Projections

A. Understanding Express Entry draws

Express Entry draws are conducted periodically by the IRCC to select candidates from the Express Entry pool and invite them to apply for permanent residence. The frequency of draws varies but typically occurs every two weeks. During each draw, the IRCC sets a CRS cutoff score, and candidates with a CRS score equal to or above this cutoff receive an ITA. The CRS cutoff score can fluctuate based on the number of candidates in the pool and the government's immigration targets.

B. Recent trends in CRS cutoff scores

You can find the most recent CRS cutoff scores and draw dates on the Canada Immigration Visa's latest Express Entry draw page. By analyzing recent trends, you can get an idea of the CRS scores needed to receive an ITA. However, it's important to note that past trends are not a guarantee of future draw outcomes.

C. Projections for future draws

Predicting future CRS cutoff scores and draw dates is challenging due to the dynamic nature of the Express Entry system. However, by keeping an eye on the latest news and monitoring changes in immigration policy and trends, you can get a sense of potential changes in the Express Entry landscape.

How are Express Entry points calculated?

Express Entry points are calculated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points based on a candidate's skills, experience, and other factors. CRS points are awarded in three main categories: Core human capital factors, Skill transferability factors, and Additional factors.

The maximum CRS score a candidate can achieve is 1,200 points.

Here's a detailed breakdown of how Express Entry points are calculated:

Example:

Let's consider an example of a single candidate with the following profile:

Age: 28 years
Education: Master's degree
First language (English): CLB 9
Second language (French): CLB 5
Canadian work experience: 3 years
Certificate of qualification: No
Provincial nomination: No
Valid job offer: No
Canadian study experience: No
Siblings in Canada: No
French language proficiency: Yes

Core human capital factors:

Age: 110 points (maximum)
Education: 135 points
First language: 136 points
Second language: 34 points
Canadian work experience: 80 points (maximum)

Total core human capital factors points: 495 points

Skill transferability factors:

Education and language ability: 50 points (maximum)
Education and work experience: 50 points (maximum)
Language ability and work experience: 50 points (maximum)

Total skill transferability factors points: 100 points (maximum)

Additional factors:

Provincial nomination: 0 points
Valid job offer: 0 points
Canadian study experience: 0 points
Siblings in Canada: 0 points
French language proficiency: 30 points

Total additional factors points: 30 points

Total CRS score: 495 (core human capital factors) + 100 (skill transferability factors) + 30 (additional factors) = 625 points

Life in Canada: Settling Down and Integration

A. Preparing for your move

Before moving to Canada, research the city and province you plan to settle in and familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and resources. Plan your finances, prepare important documents, and create a checklist of tasks to complete before and after your arrival.

B. Finding employment in Canada

To find a job in Canada, use online job portals, networking, and government resources such as job banks and employment centers. Consider working with a settlement agency that offers employment services and support for newcomers. Tailor your resume and cover letter to match Canadian standards and be prepared for interviews and potential credential assessments.

C. Housing and cost of living

Housing costs vary across Canada, with larger cities generally being more expensive. Research rental prices, utilities, and other living expenses in your chosen area. Consider temporary accommodation while you search for long-term housing, and familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

D. Healthcare, education, and social services

Canada offers universal healthcare to its residents, but the services covered can vary by province. Register for a health card upon arrival and learn about the healthcare system in your province. If you have children, research the education system, including public and private schools, and register your child for school as soon as possible.

Take advantage of social services offered by settlement agencies and government organizations that can help you adapt to life in Canada, such as language classes, community programs, and employment support.

E. Cultural adaptation and community involvement

Adapting to a new culture can be challenging but rewarding. Learn about Canadian culture, customs, and values to ease your integration process. Engage with your local community by participating in events, volunteering, and joining clubs or organizations. This will help you build a social network and feel more connected to your new home.

What are the documents required for Express Entry Application Package?

For a complete Express Entry application, the following documents are typically required:

Passport or travel document: A valid passport or travel document is required for identification purposes and for traveling to Canada if your application is successful.
Language test results: You will need to submit official language test results for English and/or French (depending on your language proficiency) from an approved testing agency, such as IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF. The results must be less than two years old at the time of application submission.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you have completed education outside Canada, you will need an ECA report from an approved organization to prove that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian degree or diploma.
Work experience documentation: You must provide proof of your work experience, including reference letters from your previous employers, confirming your job title, responsibilities, and duration of employment. Additionally, you may need to provide pay stubs or tax documents to validate your employment history.
Police certificates: A police certificate is required for every country where you have lived for six months or more in a row during the last ten years. This ensures that you have no criminal record and are admissible to Canada.
Medical exam: You and your family members must undergo a medical exam by an approved panel physician to prove that you are in good health and not a risk to public health or safety in Canada.
Proof of funds: You will need to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family in Canada. This can be in the form of bank statements, investment certificates, or other financial documents.
Job offer (if applicable): If you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, you must provide a copy of your job offer letter or contract, as well as the employer's LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) approval letter, if required.
Provincial nomination (if applicable): If you have been nominated by a Canadian province or territory, you will need to provide a copy of your provincial nomination certificate.
Marriage certificate and family information: If you are married or have a common-law partner, you must provide a marriage certificate or proof of your common-law relationship. Additionally, you will need to provide information about any dependent children, including their birth certificates and passport information.

It is important to note that the specific documents required for your application may vary based on your individual circumstances and the requirements of the Express Entry program you are applying under. Always check the official guidelines and instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before submitting your application.

How long does the Express Entry process take?

Express Entry profiles are valid for a maximum of 12 months. Candidates who acquire an ITA can anticipate that their permanent residency applications will be processed by the Canadian government within 6-12 months. When the government receives a complete application for permanent residence, processing time is recorded. Application processing concludes when a final decision is made. If a candidate does not get an ITA within a year of submitting their Express Entry profile, they may resubmit their profile if they remain eligible.

What is the cost for Canada Express Entry?

Submitting an Express Entry profile to the government pool of eligible candidates is free of charge. However, you will need to pay for the following:

Before receiving an ITA:

English or French Language exam - Average Cost C$300.00
Educational Credential Assessment - Average Cost C$200.00
Translation fees for any documents that you submit which are not in English or French - Average Cost C$250.00
Cost of hiring a representative - Average Cost C$2500.00 - C$4500.00

After receiving an ITA:

Government fee* - Provincial and/or Federal - depending on your application - Average Cost C$1325.00 per adult & C$225.00 per child.
Medical Exams - Average cost C$450.00 per adult & C$250.00 per child.
Background Check (Police Clearance Certificate) - Average cost C$100.00 per country
Biometrics Fee - C$85.00 per person.

*The initial profile you submit for Express Entry does not require any payments to be paid to the government. When you are extended an invitation to submit an application for permanent residence in Canada, only then will you be required to pay the associated fees. If you submit your application through a PNP, you will likely be required to pay the government processing fees in addition to the provincial immigration expenses.

You should also be aware that unless you are applying under the Canadian Experience Class program or have a validly arranged employment offer, you will be required to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support your resettlement in Canada. If you are applying under either of these program, you do not need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds.

Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?

When applying through Express Entry, a job offer is not required of you. The vast majority of individuals who are selected for Express Entry do not have a formal employment offer waiting for them in Canada.

However, if you have a genuine & valid offer of employment from an employer in Canada - supported with a positive LMIA, you may be eligible for an additional 200 points on the CRS scale.

How will a job offer effect my Express Entry profile?

Your Express Entry CRS score could go up by 50–200 points if you add a valid job offer from a Canadian company. Most of the time, you need a positive LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) for these points to be given.

Your Express Entry profile won't get any more points if you have an informal job offer. The job offer needs to be supported with a positive LMIA, valid and genuine.

What makes a job offer valid under Express Entry?

IRCC states that a valid job offer under Express Entry generally meets the following criteria:

is full-time and not a seasonal job
is at least one year
is a skilled job that falls under skill type 0, 1, 2, or 3 in the National Occupational Classification (NOC)
be recent (e.g., within the last 1 year)
not be from an embassy, consulate, or high commission

Job offers must be written and outline the likes of your duties, pay, and conditions of employment (e.g., which hours you will work.

Job offers often need to be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) but there are jobs that are exempt from the LMIA requirement. If an LMIA is required, your employer must apply for one by submitting an application to Employment and Social Development Canada/Service Canada.

Valid job offers under Express Entry are worth either 50 or 200 additional CRS points. Valid job offers under NOC skill type 0, A, or B are awarded 50 additional CRS points. Job offers under NOC skill type 00 are eligible for 200 additional CRS points.

Do I need to include proof of funds for Express Entry?

In your Express Entry profile, you will be asked to mention how much money you will have to help you settle in Canada. This shows that you can support yourself and any family members who come to Canada with you.

You will only have to meet the settlement fund requirement if the program you are invited to apply for has that requirement.

If you are invited to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program, you will need to show that you meet the settlement funds requirement, unless you already have permission to work in Canada and a valid job offer from an employer in Canada.

For proof, you need bank statements, investment statements, official letters from any banks or other places where you keep money.

All current bank and investment accounts must be listed, as well as any loans or credit card debts that are still due.

Note: If you were invited to apply under the Canadian Experience Class, you do not have to meet the funds requirement.

At the moment, the system requires all applicants to show proof of funds. If you don't need to show proof of funds, you must upload a letter saying that you have been invited to apply under the Canadian Experience Class or that you have a valid job offer.

Proof of funds requirement for Express Entry

Number of Applicants	Minimum proof of Funds
1 (single applicant)	C$13,310
2	C$16,570
3	C$20,371
4	C$24,433
5	C$28,052
6	C$31,638
7	C$35,224
Each additional family member	C$3,586

What is the difference between Express Entry eligibility points and CRS score?

Candidates must first earn a score of at least 67 on the FSW eligibility points grid before they may submit an application for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). A CRS score will be assigned to a candidate once they have been accepted into the Express Entry pool, regardless of whether or not they are an FSW candidate. In order to rate each candidate against the other applicants in the Express Entry pool, Canada employs the CRS score. The Government of Canada conducts an Express Entry draw at a frequency of about once every two weeks, at which time they establish a minimum CRS score cut-off. Those individuals in the pool who have a CRS score that is higher than the threshold will be extended an invitation to submit an application for permanent residence in Canada.

What is the difference between Express Entry and PNP?

In Canada, the federal government, provinces, and territories are permitted to administer their own immigration programs. However, the federal government makes the final determination regarding a candidate's eligibility for permanent residence.

Express Entry manages three of the federal government's numerous economic immigration programs.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) permits provinces and territories to indicate to the federal government that an immigrant candidate meets the economic requirements of their region. These candidates receive a provincial nomination, which they can use to support their federal application for permanent residence.

A provincial nomination is the single most valuable factor under Express Entry's Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and results in an Express Entry candidate receiving an additional 600 points towards their CRS score, effectively ensuring they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Even if an Express Entry candidate does not initially have a high enough ranking score to receive an ITA from the federal government, they can obtain a nomination from a province or territory through Express Entry, increase their CRS score by 600 points, and then receive an ITA during the next draw from the Express Entry pool.

What are the language requirements for Express Entry?

You need to complete a language test that IRCC has authorized for Express Entry. Your language test score is valid for two years. Your options are:

English

CELPIP General
IELTS General Training
PTE

French

TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
TCF Canada : Test de connaissance du français

Can I combine my language test scores for Express Entry?

No. Your language test will assess your reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. After taking a test numerous times, it is possible to receive a different score for the same skill. Unfortunately, you can only submit the results of one language test. You are permitted to submit your best language test score. Note that the validity of your language test result is two years. Entering the Express Entry pool, retaking the language test until you achieve the necessary score, and then updating your Express Entry profile to boost your CRS score is one strategy you might pursue.

You need to obtain your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a body that is designated by IRCC.

Your options are:

World Education Services
Comparative Education Service – University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
International Credential Assessment Service of Canada
International Qualifications Assessment Service
International Credential Evaluation Service
Medical Council of Canada (professional body for Doctors)
Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (professional body for Pharmacists)

How can I calculate my Express Entry CRS score?

Check our free tool so you can calculate your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System score. Read more about how to improve your CRS Score.

What are the reasons for express entry application refusal or rejection?

All applications are based on the information you provided to the IRCC. The onus of proof of authenticity always lies on the applicant. If the immigration officer believes that you have provided incorrect information or have not submitted enough proof to verify your claims, they may ask for addition clarification or reject your application.

Here are some of the common reasons that your application might be rejected for:

1. Ineligibility

If you do not meet the basic requirements of the program or category you applied for, your application may be denied.

2. Misrepresentation

This is considered a very serious offence with the IRCC. If an applicant is found misrepresenting on their application to immigrate to Canada, they can be deemed inadmissible to Canada. Common examples of misrepresentation are:

Fake documentation - Education, work experience or any other illegitimate documents.
Inadmissibility of family members - If 1 or more of your family members are inadmissible to Canada, then you may be charged with misrepresentation and inadmissible.
Marriage of Convenience - Fake marriages just to for Canadian immigration or failure to declare information about your spouse - like divorce, separation or custody of children etc.

3. Medical Grounds

Canada's health care system is considered one of the best in the world. And it is paid for by the government. Therefore, if during your medical exams, it is ascertained that your medical condition:

is going to affect the overall health of the Canadian citizens OR
result in an excessive demand on the Canadian health care and social services.

4. Criminality

This is self-explanatory. If you or any other member of your application or family has a criminal background for which you have not already finished rehabilitation, your application will be denied. Every applicant has to submit a clean criminal record certificate for every country they have lived in for over 6 months since the day they turned 18.

5. Financial Reasons

As part of the Visa application process for Canada, every applicant needs to submit proof of financial capability. Failure to do so will result in your application being refused. You need to show that you will be able to support all accompanying or non-accompanying family members as part of your immigration application.

6. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Most applications for Canadian immigration are electronic, yet there are some that are paper based as well. If you are unable to provide the correct documents, complete documents or provide all documents in the time-frame specified, your application may be refused. It is advisable to include all documents provided in the document checklist for every application.

7. Timelines

The Canadian immigration department receives thousands of applications for every program. In order to maintain efficiency in evaluation and outcome, it is important that applicants abide by the time lines provided in the application package. Failure to do so will result in delays of refusal. The best practice is to keep all your documents ready before you apply and submit your application for immigration to Canada.

How Can I Avoid a Canadian Immigration Refusal?

Refusal or denial can be painful and stressful. Most people think that they know what they're doing and will do it right. Not all of them can actually claim that they will not make a mistake. Immigration applications to Canada are a 1-time opportunity. A mistake can lead to irreparable damage to your profile. Therefore, you may want to consider hiring a professional immigration consultant who has the knowledge and expertise in matters of Canadian immigration laws.