Should You Hire a Consultant to Handle Your Express Entry Application?
(3-4 min estimated read time)
Canada’s immigration system is recognized globally for its efficiency and fairness, and the Express Entry program is at the heart of it. Launched in 2015, Express Entry is now the primary pathway for skilled workers and graduates in Canada to gain permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
Yet, despite its streamlined design, the system is still complex. In 2024 alone, over 110,000 immigrants became permanent residents through Express Entry — but thousands faced refusals or delays due to avoidable mistakes (IRCC Annual Report, 2024).
That raises the critical question: “Do I need an Express Entry consultant, or can I apply on my own?” Let’s explore both options in depth.
What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is not a single program — it’s a points-based system (Comprehensive Ranking System or CRS) that manages applications under three major economic immigration categories:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Additionally, many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) aligned with Express Entry still grant successful nominees 600 extra CRS points, which virtually guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Note: the bonus CRS points previously awarded for job offers have been removed as of March 25, 2025.
👉 Learn more about the system here: Northia Immigration – Express Entry Services.
The DIY Route: Can You Apply Without a Consultant?
Yes, it is entirely possible to apply independently. However, here are common pitfalls self-applicants face:
- Misunderstanding CRS score calculations: For example, claiming incorrect points for language scores, work experience or education.
- Not updating the profile after changes: Failure to update marital status, new language results, or expiring documents
- Overlooking settlement fund requirements (CAD $14,690 for one person in 2024, updated annually).
- Not familiar with program-specific instructions: For example, some PNP streams or Express Entry categories have additional requirements to meet.
According to CIC News, nearly 1 in 4 Express Entry applications face issues due to incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
The Case for Hiring an Express Entry Consultant
A licensed Express Entry consultant (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant – RCIC) can:
- Evaluate your profile and suggest the most viable program.
- Optimize CRS scores by advising on language retests, education upgrades, or LMIA-based job offers.
- Navigate PNPs: With 11 provinces and territories running unique nomination programs, choosing the right one is challenging without expert guidance.
- Save time and stress: They track deadlines, requirements, and policy changes.
Northia Immigration, for example, specializes in Express Entry cases with tailored strategies — whether you’re a skilled worker abroad or a graduate already in Canada. 👉 Work with an Express Entry Consultant.
Data Snapshot: Express Entry in Numbers
Here are some key statistics:
- Overall Target: The Canadian government aims to admit a total of 395,000 permanent residents in 2025.
- 2025 CRS Cut-off Scores
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws: These consistently show very high scores, with recent examples including 855 (Sept 29, 2025) and 788 (July 21, 2025).
- Category-Based Draws (e.g., French, Education, Trades): These draws have much lower cut-offs, with examples like 379 for French proficiency, 462 for education, and 505 for trade occupations.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draws: Cut-off scores are generally in the 500s, for instance, 518 on July 8, 2025.
- In-demand Occupations: IT professionals, educators, engineers, and health workers.
Who Should Consider Hiring a Consultant?
While some profiles are straightforward, others should strongly consider hiring an Express Entry consultant:
- Applicants with low CRS scores trying to explore PNP options.
- Those with work experience spread across multiple employers or countries.
- Applicants with previous refusals.
- Families with
- Candidates unsure about NOC codes and job classification.
Bringing it to Northia
At Northia Immigration, we guide you through every step of Express Entry. Our team:
- Reviews your profile to maximize CRS points
- Helps navigate complex PNP streams
- Ensures documentation is accurate and complete
- Advises on strategy if previous applications were refused
Whether you’re abroad or already in Canada, we aim to simplify your immigration journey and increase your chances of success.
FAQs (Top 5 Searches)
- Is it worth hiring an Express Entry consultant in 2025?
Yes, especially if you have a complex case, low CRS score, or prior refusals. - Can I apply for Express Entry without IELTS?
No. Language tests (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF/TCF for French) are mandatory. - What CRS score is required for Express Entry in 2025?
Cut-off scores vary depending on the type of draw. - Do Express Entry consultants guarantee PR approval?
No, but they can significantly improve application accuracy. - What’s the fastest route under Express Entry?
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) usually has shorter processing times if you already have Canadian work experience.
