What is Express Entry (EE)?
Express Entry is a two-step process where an individual seeking permanent residence in Canada first submits an Express Entry Profile online. Immigration Canada then analyzes this profile and assigns several points to the potential candidate as they are entered into a pool of other potential candidates. Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will conduct a draw and pull from this pool any candidates who meet or surpass the lowest cut-off number. These candidates will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and be invited to enter Stage 2. During Stage 2, the applicant will then be granted the opportunity to apply for permanent residence.
Online Profile - Stage 1
Stage 1 requests certain information in the profile, including work experience, language skills and education, among others. These skills are then assessed by IRCC, and the applicant is granted several points (Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score) out of a maximum of 1200 points.
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The number of points a candidate receives can always be improved, and it is important to know how you can maximize your points to improve your chances of receiving an ITA.
Express Entry pool and the ITA
All Candidates entered into the pool can remain there for up to 1 year as long as all documentation remains up to date. After this 1 year period, you will need to re-enter the pool. Knowing when you are approaching an expiration date for either the pool or on your documents is crucial. Having someone who cares about your application and who can alert you if or when your time in the pool is coming to an end, how to improve your chances of receiving an ITA moving forward or what other options may be available to you.
Application for Permanent Residence - Stage 2
After receiving an ITA, you will be given only a few months complete your application for permanent residence. It is therefore important to start collecting your documents early to ensure that you are ready to submit a full and complete application by the deadline. Some documents, such as police background checks and letters from former employers, can take several months to obtain, so it is important to start early.
Express Entry
One way of applying for permanent residence in Canada is through the express entry program. Express Entry works on a points system. Learn how to maximize your points and have the best possible chance of success, both at the initial stage and through to the final stage of the application.
