How Express Entry works

Interested in immigrating to Canada? The Express Entry system may be for you! This program enables qualified individuals to obtain permanent residency in Canada. In this article, we'll explain step-by-step how Express Entry works, using simplified language to make it easier for you to understand. We'll go into detail about the three immigration programs, strategies for increasing your GCS score, and tips for successful integration in Canada.

1. Understanding the Express Entry system

Express Entry is a system set up by the Canadian government to select skilled workers. It speeds up the immigration process through a points system. Here are the three immigration programs linked to Express Entry:

1.1 Federal Skilled Worker Program

This program is aimed at workers with qualified work experience and proficiency in English or French. Applicants are assessed on age, education, work experience, language skills and adaptability.

1.2 Federal Skilled Trades Program

This program is aimed at workers with experience in a skilled trade and a job offer in Canada, or a trade certificate issued by a province or territory. Skilled trades include electricians, plumbers and welders.

1.3 Canadian experience category

This program is for people with qualified Canadian work experience who wish to become permanent residents. Applicants must have worked legally in Canada for at least one year and be fluent in English or French.

2. Check your eligibility

Before you get started, check to see if you're eligible for Express Entry. There's an online tool called the "Eligibility Assessment Tool" that will help you determine if you're eligible. You'll need to provide information about your age, education, work experience, English or French proficiency level, and other personal details.

3. Create an Express Entry profile

If you're eligible, you'll need to create an Express Entry profile online. You'll need to provide information about your identity, education, work experience and language skills. You will then receive an Express Entry profile number and be placed in a pool of candidates.

4. Obtain a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score

Your Express Entry profile will be evaluated according to the Global Ranking System (GRS). The GCS assigns points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills and valid job offers. The total possible score is 1200 points.

5. Strategies to improve your CRS score

Here are a few tips on how to increase your CGS score and improve your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency:

5.1 Improve your language skills

Taking English or French proficiency tests (such as IELTS, CELPIP or TEF) and achieving better results can considerably increase your SCG score.

5.2 Acquiring additional professional experience

The longer and more relevant your work experience, the higher your SCG score will be. Try to gain additional work experience in your field to improve your score.

5.3 Obtaining a validated job offer

A job offer validated by a Canadian employer can earn you additional points in the SCG. This implies that the employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that there is no Canadian worker available to fill the position.

5.4 Obtaining a provincial nomination

Some provinces in Canada have provincial nomination programs that allow applicants to earn additional points in the CGS. If you are selected for a provincial nomination, you will receive an additional 600 points in the CGS system, greatly increasing your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

6. Wait for an invitation to submit an application

The Canadian government organizes regular draws to select candidates with the highest SCG scores. If you are selected, you will receive an invitation to apply (IPD) for permanent residency.

7. Preparing and submitting your application for permanent residence

After receiving an IPD, you will have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence. You'll need to provide supporting documents such as copies of diplomas, proof of work experience, language test results and police certificates.

8. Wait and decide

It can take several months to process your application for permanent residency. You will then receive a decision from the Canadian government. If your application is approved, you will receive your permanent residence visa and can move to Canada.

9. Recognition of professional qualifications

Before looking for a job in Canada, it's important to have your professional qualifications and diplomas assessed to ensure that they are recognized in Canada. You can contact credential evaluation agencies to obtain a comparative assessment of your credentials. For some regulated professions, you'll need to obtain professional accreditation or take additional courses.

10. Job search and integration into the Canadian job market

Finding a job in Canada can be a challenge for new immigrants. Here are some tips to make your job search easier:

10.1 Adapting your CV and cover letter

Adapt your CV and cover letter to the Canadian format and emphasize your skills and achievements. Be sure to include concrete examples of your work experience to show how you can add value to the company.

10.2 Using online resources

Check job websites, social networks and recruitment platforms to find vacancies. Create a professional profile on sites like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers and colleagues.

10.3 Participating in job fairs and workshops

Attend job fairs and workshops organized by local organizations and employment assistance groups to meet employers and learn more about the Canadian job market.

10.4 Networking

Making contacts with people working in your field can help you find job opportunities. Join professional associations and attend events to expand your network.

11. Adapting to life in Canada

Moving to a new country can be difficult, especially at first. Here are a few tips to help you adjust to life in Canada:

11.1 Familiarize yourself with Canadian culture and customs

Learn more about Canadian traditions, customs and values. This will help you integrate more easily into Canadian society and feel at ease in your new environment.

11.2 Knowing your rights and responsibilities

Find out about the laws and regulations that apply to permanent residents in Canada, such as human rights, labor rights and tax responsibilities.

11.3 Mastering language skills

If you need to improve your English or French, sign up for language courses. Language skills are essential for success in Canada, both professionally and socially.

12. Express Entry FAQs

In this section, we address frequently asked questions about Entrée Express and provide clear, concise answers to help applicants better understand the process.

12.1 How long does it take to immigrate to Canada via Express Entry?

The time it takes to immigrate to Canada via Express Entry varies according to several factors, such as the speed of document collection, the CGS score, and the application processing time. In general, the process can take between 6 and 12 months, or even longer.

12.2 Is it possible to immigrate to Canada without a job offer?

Yes, it is possible to immigrate to Canada via Express Entry without a job offer. However, having a validated job offer or provincial nomination can significantly increase your CGS score and your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

12.3 Do I have to take a proficiency test in English or French even if I am a native speaker of one of these languages?

Yes, all Express Entry applicants, including native speakers of English or French, must take a Canadian government-approved language proficiency test (IELTS, CELPIP or TEF) to prove their level of proficiency.

12.4 How can I check the status of my Express Entry request?

You can check the status of your Express Entry application by logging into your online account on the Canadian government website. Your application status will be updated regularly throughout the process.

12.5 If my Express Entry application is rejected, can I reapply?

Yes, if your Express Entry application is refused, you can reapply. It's important to analyze the reasons for the refusal and make any necessary changes to your profile or documents before submitting a new application.

12.6 Can my family members accompany me to Canada if I obtain permanent residence via Express Entry?

Yes, your family members (spouse or common-law partner, as well as dependent children) can accompany you to Canada as permanent residents if you obtain permanent residency via Express Entry. They will also have to provide supporting documents and meet medical and security requirements.

12.7 What is the difference between Entrée Express and provincially-appointed programs?

Express Entry is a federal immigration program that selects applicants on the basis of their CGS score, while provincial nomination programs are immigration programs specific to each province or territory. Provincial nominees receive an additional 600 points in the CGS system, significantly increasing their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

12.8 What are the costs associated with an Express Entry request?

Costs associated with an Express Entry application include permanent residence processing fees, diploma and skills assessment fees, language proficiency test fees and medical expenses. Fees vary according to the number of family members included in the application.

12.9 Does my work experience abroad count towards my CRS score?

Yes, work experience acquired abroad is taken into account in the SCG score. However, Canadian work experience is generally more highly valued.

12.10 Can I update my Entrée Express profile after submitting it?

Yes, you can update your Express Entry profile at any time as long as you have not received an invitation to apply for permanent residence. It's important to update your profile if your personal or professional situation changes, as this may affect your CGS score.

12.11 What happens to my Express Entry profile if I don't receive an invitation to apply within 12 months?

If you do not receive an invitation to apply within 12 months of submitting your Express Entry profile, your profile will expire and be removed from the applicant pool. You may submit a new profile if you are still interested in immigrating to Canada via Express Entry.

12.12 What is the role of the provinces and territories in the Express Entry program?

Provinces and territories participate in the Express Entry program by selecting candidates through their provincial nomination programs. Successful provincial nominees receive an additional 600 points in the SCG system, increasing their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

12.13 How valid are the results of language tests and diploma evaluations?

Language test results are generally valid for two years from the test date. Diploma assessments are valid indefinitely, but it is advisable to submit them within five years of the assessment date to avoid any devaluation of qualifications.

12.14 How can I prove my support funds for an Express Entry application?

To prove your support funds, you must provide official documents such as bank statements, letters from the bank or financial institutions, and financial assets. Funds must be available, transferable and not borrowed.

12.15 Can I work in Canada while my Express Entry application is being processed?

If you already have a valid work permit, you can continue to work in Canada while your Express Entry application is being processed. If you do not have a work permit, you will need to obtain one before you can work in Canada.

12.16 If I receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence, how long do I have to submit my complete application?

After receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence, you have 60 days to submit your complete application, including all required supporting documents. If you do not submit your application within this time, your invitation will expire, and you will have to wait for a new invitation to apply.

12.17 How can I prove my work experience for Entrée Express?

To prove your work experience, you'll need to provide letters of reference from previous and current employers. Reference letters should include information such as dates of employment, job titles, job descriptions and number of hours worked per week.

12.18 Can I include my dependent children in my Express Entry application even if they won't be accompanying me immediately?

Yes, you can include your dependent children in your Express Entry application, even if they won't be accompanying you to Canada immediately. However, you will need to provide supporting documents for them, such as birth certificates and medical examinations. If you decide later to bring them to Canada, you'll need to submit a family sponsorship application for them.

12.19 If I am married or in a common-law relationship, who should be the principal applicant in our Express Entry application?

The principal applicant should be the one most likely to achieve a high SCG score. Compare the qualifications, work experience and language skills of each spouse to determine which would be the most appropriate principal applicant. The spouse with the highest SCG score should be designated as the principal applicant.

12.20 How can I find a job in Canada after obtaining my permanent residence via Express Entry?

To find a job in Canada after you become a permanent resident, you can use online resources such as job boards, professional social networks and recruitment platforms. You can also attend job fairs and workshops, and develop your professional network by joining professional associations and attending events related to your field.

Conclusion

The Express Entry program is an excellent way for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. By following the steps outlined in this article and applying the tips and strategies mentioned, you'll be well on your way to a successful immigration process and a new life in Canada. The key to success is to prepare well, stay informed and persevere throughout the process. Canada offers countless opportunities to those seeking to build a better future for themselves and their families. So embark on this adventure and give yourself every chance of success!

Here is a summary of the steps you need to take to participate in the Express Entry program:

• Understand the Express Entry system and its immigration programs.
• Check your eligibility.
• Create an Express Entry profile.
• Obtain a Global Ranking System (GRS) score.
• Implement strategies to improve your SCG score.
• Wait for an invitation to submit an application.
• Prepare and submit your application for permanent residence.
• Wait for the decision and obtain your permanent residence visa.
• Have your professional qualifications assessed.
• Finding a job and integrating into the job market.
• Adapting to life in Canada.

By following these steps and staying motivated and determined, you'll have every chance of succeeding in your project to immigrate to Canada. Good luck and welcome to your new life!