top of page
Search
Writer's pictureMarcia Freese

Express Entry - From the Beginning to the End

Updated: Feb 27, 2023

RCC recently announced that draws for Federal Skilled Workers and Canadian Experience Class will resume in July 2022.


We've listed the steps for Express Entry for those who'd like to start the process.


1 – Find out if you are eligible for one of these programs:


· Federal Skilled Workers (FSW)

· Federal Skilled Trades (FST)

· Canadian Experience Class (CEC)


2 – Gather the required documents:


You (the main applicant) will need to gather certain documents, such as an approved English or French language test and educational assessments if you qualify in one of the federal programs in step one.

​It is not compulsory for the main applicant's spouse or common-law partner to have their language or education assessed. It does contribute to a higher CRS score, the higher your score, the greater chance you stand to receive an invitation to apply (ITA).


Language tests:

  • IRCC only accepts the IELTS -General & CELPIP- General test as an approved English test.

  • French speaking candidates must write the TEF Canada or TCF Canada to be able to prove their French skills for immigration purposes.

  • Approved language tests are only valid for two years from the day you wrote the test.

Educational Credential Assessments:


Education, except for trades and certificates less than one year long, obtained from outside of Canada must be accompanied by an educational credential assessment. These recognized organizations will assess your qualifications and confirm if they are equivalent to a Canadian qualification.

  • ​Comparative Education Service

  • International Credential Assessment Service of Canada

  • International Qualifications Assessment Service

  • International Credential Evaluation Service

  • Medical Council of Canada (Doctors must use this organization)

  • Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (Suitable for Pharmacists who needs a license to practice as a Pharmacists)

  • World Education Services

Educational Assessments are valid for five years from the date they were issued.


3 – Enter the Express Entry pool


You can create your online Express Entry profile once you have collected the documents in step two. Once you have submitted your answers you will receive a message stating if you have met the criteria or not. If the criteria were met, you will be given a number which you can use to create you Express Entry profile.


4 – Wait for invitation to apply (ITA)


Once you have entered the Express Entry pool you will have to wait for an ITA. How quickly you receive your ITA will depend on how high your CRS score is. There are ways to improve your CRS score if it is too low to receive an ITA.


5 – Submit your permanent residency application


Once you have received your ITA you have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residency application. You will receive a document checklist based on information provided by you during the application process. All of the required documents need to be submitted, your application will be rejected if it is found to be incomplete. You will need to enter the Express Entry pool again and wait for another ITA if this happens to you.


Required documents usually include copies of:

· Birth certificate/s

· Passport biometrics page and pages with visas or other stamps for travel

· Marriage certificate (if applicable)

· Education assessment or proof of Canadian studies

· Language test results

· Proof of work experience - Canadian or abroad

· Police clearance certificates

· Upfront medical examination

· Job offer (if applicable)

· Travel history

· Proof of name change (if applicable)

· Proof of relationship if you claimed points for a Canadian relative

· Provincial Nomination Certificate (if applicable)

· Endorsement letter form employer (if applicable)

· Digital photos

· Proof of payment for the applicable government fees


6 – Prepare for your move to Canada


You can start making travel plans once you have received your passport back with the permanent residency visa in it. Due to Covid-19 we suggest that you check the latest news, travel restrictions and find out what documents are required in order for you to travel.


Be sure to have the following documents with you when you meet with an officer at Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) at your first point of entry in Canada:

· Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

· Valid passport with permanent resident visa

· Proof of Funds

· Address where you'll be staying in Canada (your PR card will be sent here)

· Covid related documentation


There are other immigration options available that does not involve the Express Entry pool. To explore these options, or find out how you can boost your current CRS score, book a consultation with our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant, Marcia Freese.

114 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page