Express Entry / PNP
Canada Immigration Express Entry and PNP Pathways
Explore how the Express Entry system and Provincial Programs can help skilled workers, graduates, and families achieve permanent residency.
Permanent Residency through Express Entry or a Provincial Nomination
From Foreign Worker to Permanent Resident
From International Student to Permanent Resident
What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage permanent residence applications for skilled workers often guided by an experienced express entry consultant for improved results. Candidates are ranked using a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on factors like age, education, language ability, and work experience. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through the Canada immigration express entry process.
Three Programs Under Express Entry
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For individuals with at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last 3 years. Ideal for international graduates and foreign workers currently living in Canada. An express entry consultant can guide applicants in optimising profiles for this program.
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
For skilled professionals with foreign work experience. Selection is based on a points system that evaluates education, language ability, work experience, and adaptability often compared against opportunities in the Canada immigration PNP pathways.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For individuals with at least 2 years of recent work experience in a skilled trade, plus a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification.
What Is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
Provincial Nominee Programs allow provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to settle in a specific province. Each province has its own criteria and streams tailored to local labour needs. A provincial nomination gives you 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation making it highly beneficial when you apply for PNP Canada alongside Express Entry. Some PNPs operate outside Express Entry, allowing direct applications to a province followed by a federal PR application.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility criteria for Express Entry?
To qualify for Canada immigration express entry, you must meet the criteria for one of the three programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades. This generally includes having at least 1 year of skilled work experience, passing a language test, and having your education assessed (if completed outside Canada).
How Do I Move from a Work or Study Permit to Permanent Residency?
Once you have sufficient Canadian work experience (usually 1 year), you can create an Express Entry profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) apply for PNP Canada. Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or a provincial nomination can lead to permanent residency.
What is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and how can I improve my score?
The CRS is a points-based system used to rank candidates in Express Entry. It awards points for factors like age, education, work experience, and language ability. To boost your score, you can improve language test results, gain more Canadian work experience, obtain a job offer, or secure a Canada immigration PNP nomination (worth 600 points).
Can I apply for both Express Entry and a PNP at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for both. In fact, securing a PNP nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score in Express Entry, which can greatly increase your chances of receiving an invitation for permanent residency.
Do I need a job offer to apply for Express Entry?
No, a job offer is not required to apply for Express Entry.
Can I change provinces after receiving a PNP nomination?
PNP nominations are province-specific, so if you receive a nomination, it’s expected that you intend to live and work in that province. Moving to another province soon after obtaining permanent residency may affect future interactions with immigration services, as each PNP is designed to address specific provincial labor needs.
How long does it take to process Express Entry applications?
Express Entry applications are usually processed within six months after submission. Timelines may vary depending on program stream, documentation accuracy, and whether additional information is requested by IRCC.
Can I include my spouse and children in my Express Entry application?
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application. Their qualifications may also improve your CRS score and overall eligibility for permanent residency.
What costs are involved in submitting an Express Entry application?
Applicants must pay government processing fees, biometrics fees, and, if successful, the right of permanent residence fee. Additional costs may include language tests, medical exams, and credential evaluations.
Do language test results from abroad count for Express Entry?
Yes, results from approved tests like IELTS or CELPIP are valid worldwide. For clarity, many applicants consult an express entry consultant to ensure their results meet IRCC requirements.
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