What is Express Entry in Canada and how does it work?

Express Entry is Canada's main system for managing applications for permanent residency through three federal skilled worker programmes: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

The system works as a two-step process. First, you create an Express Entry profile through IRCC's online system. You are then ranked against other candidates in the pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points for factors including age, education, language proficiency (English and/or French), work experience in Canada and abroad, and any provincial nomination or valid job offer.

Second, IRCC holds regular "draws" and invites the highest-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residency via an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete PR application.

CRS scores have varied significantly over time. Category-based draws — which target specific occupations like healthcare, STEM, trades, and French-language proficiency — have become more common and can have lower CRS cutoffs than general draws.

The most reliable way to boost your CRS score if you are already in Canada is to: gain Canadian work experience (CEC), obtain a provincial nomination (worth 600 points), improve your language scores, or complete additional education in Canada.

An RCIC-registered consultant can help you optimise your profile and understand which draw categories you may be eligible for.