Express Entry to Canada
Fast-Track Your Permanent Residence Journey
Navigate Canada’s premier skilled worker program with expert guidance. From profile creation to post-ITA submission, we help you maximize your chances and avoid costly mistakes.
20+ Years Experience
Licensed by Law Society & CICC
Women-Led Immigration Practice
UNDERSTANDING EXPRESS ENTRY
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residence. Introduced in 2015, it’s designed to select candidates who are most likely to succeed economically in Canada and process their applications quickly.
Unlike traditional immigration programs with long backlogs, Express Entry typically processes complete applications within six months from receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). It’s a competitive, points-based system where candidates with the highest scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
Express Entry isn’t a single immigration program — it’s a selection and application management system for three federal economic immigration programs and some Provincial Nominee Programs. Candidates create an online profile, receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and enter a pool with other candidates. The highest-ranking candidates receive Invitations to Apply during regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The beauty of Express Entry is that you don’t need a job offer to qualify (though it certainly helps). Your profile is assessed on factors like age, education, work experience, and language ability. If you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your complete permanent residence application.
At IPJ Immigration, we’ve guided hundreds of skilled workers through Express Entry — from initial profile creation and CRS score optimization to post-ITA document preparation and final submission. Whether you need strategic guidance for your profile or full representation for your application, we’re here to help you navigate this competitive system with confidence.
THE THREE EXPRESS ENTRY PROGRAMS
Express Entry manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs. Understanding which program(s) you’re eligible for is the first step in your journey.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.
Who it's for:
Skilled workers with at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in a skilled occupation within the last 10 years.
Key requirements:
- Skilled work experience in National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3
- Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 or higher in English or French
- Canadian high school credential or foreign credential with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Proof of funds to support yourself and family in Canada (unless you have a valid job offer)
- Pass medical and security checks
67-Point Grid:
FSW candidates must also score at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSW selection factors grid, which includes age, education, work experience, language ability, arranged employment, and adaptability.
No Canadian experience required:
This is the ideal program for skilled workers outside Canada with no Canadian work experience.
The Canadian Experience Class is for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to transition to permanent residence.
Who it's for:
Temporary foreign workers and international graduates working in Canada who want to become permanent residents.
Key requirements:
- At least one year of skilled Canadian work experience within the last three years
- Work experience must be in NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3
- Language requirements: CLB 7 for NOC 0 and 1 jobs; CLB 5 for NOC 2 and 3 jobs
- Plan to live outside the province of Quebec
Why CEC matters:
Canadian work experience is highly valued and can significantly boost your CRS score. Many international students and temporary workers use CEC as their pathway to permanent residence.
No education requirement:
Unlike FSW, there's no minimum education requirement for CEC, though higher education increases your CRS score.
The Federal Skilled Trades Program targets skilled tradespeople with qualifications in specific trades.
Who it's for:
Skilled workers in eligible trades occupations who want to become permanent residents.
Key requirements:
- At least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last five years
- Meet job requirements for that skilled trade as set out in the National Occupational Classification
- Have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least one year OR a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority
- Language requirements: CLB 5 for speaking and listening; CLB 4 for reading and writing
- Pass medical and security checks
Eligible trades include:
- Industrial, electrical, and construction trades
- Maintenance and equipment operation trades
- Supervisors and technical occupations in natural resources, agriculture, and related production
- Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and central control operators
- Chefs and cooks
Lower language requirements:
FSTP has the most flexible language requirements among the three programs, making it accessible for tradespeople with strong skills but moderate language proficiency.
Not Sure Which Program You Qualify For?
Many candidates are eligible for more than one program. We’ll assess your profile, determine which program(s) give you the strongest chance, and help you optimize your Express Entry strategy.
THE COMPREHENSIVE RANKING SYSTEM (CRS)
How Express Entry Ranks Candidates
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is the points-based system that ranks all Express Entry candidates against each other. Your CRS score determines whether you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Core Human Capital Factors (Maximum 500 points for single candidates, 460 for couples):
- Age: Up to 110 points (12 points for each year from 18-35, declining after)
- Education: Up to 150 points (more for higher credentials)
- Official language proficiency: Up to 160 points (more for higher CLB levels)
- Canadian work experience: Up to 80 points
Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors (if applicable, maximum 40 points):
- Education: Up to 10 points
- Official language proficiency: Up to 20 points
- Canadian work experience: Up to 10 points
Skills Transferability Factors (Maximum 100 points):
- Education combined with language ability: Up to 50 points
- Education combined with Canadian work experience: Up to 50 points
- Foreign work experience combined with language ability: Up to 50 points
- Foreign work experience combined with Canadian work experience: Up to 50 points
- Certificate of qualification (trades) combined with language ability: Up to 50 points
Additional Points (Maximum 600 points):
- Brother or sister living in Canada (citizen or PR): 15 points
- French language proficiency (CLB 7 or higher in all four abilities): Up to 50 points
- Post-secondary education in Canada: 15 or 30 points
- Arranged employment: 50 or 200 points (depending on NOC)
- Provincial Nomination: 600 points (virtually guarantees an ITA)
IRCC conducts regular Express Entry draws (typically every two weeks) where they invite the highest-ranking candidates to apply. The minimum CRS score required varies with each draw.
Recent draw trends:
- General all-program draws: Typically 500-540+ CRS
- Program-specific draws (CEC, FSTP): Can be lower
- Category-based draws (e.g., French proficiency, healthcare): Vary by category
- Provincial Nominee draws: No minimum (600-point boost from nomination)
Your CRS score can change:
Your age changes annually, affecting your score. Gaining Canadian work experience, improving language test scores, completing additional education, or receiving a provincial nomination can all increase your score.
This is where professional guidance makes a significant difference. Small improvements to your profile can mean the difference between receiving an ITA or remaining in the pool indefinitely.
Strategic optimization areas:
- Retaking language tests to improve CLB scores
- Obtaining Educational Credential Assessment for additional credentials
- Gaining more Canadian or foreign work experience
- Pursuing Provincial Nominee Programs for 600 additional points
- Securing arranged employment for additional points
- Improving spouse's credentials (if applicable)
- French language training for additional points
EXPRESS ENTRY PROCESS: STEP-BY-STEP
From Profile Creation to Permanent Residence
The Express Entry process has two main stages: creating your profile and entering the pool, then completing your application if you receive an ITA.
Stage 1: Profile Creation & Pool Entry
Confirm you meet minimum requirements for at least one of the three Express Entry programs (FSW, CEC, or FSTP).
Gather language test results, Educational Credential Assessment (if applicable), proof of work experience, and other supporting documents.
Complete your online profile in the IRCC system, providing detailed information about your education, work experience, language ability, and other factors.
The system automatically calculates your CRS score based on the information you provided.
Your profile enters the Express Entry pool where you're ranked against all other candidates. Your profile remains valid for 12 months (can be renewed).
If your CRS score is at or above the cutoff in an Express Entry draw, you'll receive an ITA.
Timeline for Stage 1: Can be completed in as little as a few weeks if you have all documents ready.
Stage 2: Post-ITA Application
You receive an official Invitation to Apply for permanent residence. You now have 60 days to submit your complete application.
Collect all required documents including:
- Police certificates from all countries where you've lived 6+ months since age 18
- Medical examination results
- Proof of funds
- Reference letters from employers
- Educational documents
- Identity and civil status documents
- Additional documents specific to your situation
Fill out all required forms accurately and completely through your IRCC online account.
Upload all documents and forms, pay government fees, and submit your application before the 60-day deadline.
IRCC reviews your application, verifies documents, conducts background and security checks.
If approved, you receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). You can then complete your landing process and receive your PR card.
Timeline for Stage 2: Approximately 6 months from ITA to decision (assuming complete application).
Total Timeline: From profile creation to permanent residence can be as quick as 6-12 months, making Express Entry one of the fastest pathways to Canadian PR.
WHY PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE MATTERS
The Difference Between Success and Frustration
Express Entry may seem straightforward, but the difference between approval and refusal often comes down to details most applicants don’t even know matter.
Common Mistakes That Cost Applicants:
- Incorrectly classifying work experience under wrong NOC codes
- Underestimating language abilities (losing valuable CRS points)
- Missing transferable skills points opportunities
- Incomplete or vague work experience descriptions
- Failing to maximize CRS score potential
- Insufficient or poorly formatted reference letters
- Missing required information in employment documents
- Inadequate proof of funds documentation
- Inconsistencies between profile information and supporting documents
- Missing deadlines due to underestimating document gathering time
- Not exploring Provincial Nominee Program options that could add 600 points
- Submitting profile without optimizing CRS score first
- Poor timing (e.g., applying just before birthday when points will drop)
- Not understanding which program best suits their background
A refused Express Entry application doesn't just mean lost time and money — it can affect future immigration applications. Misrepresentation findings are particularly serious and can result in five-year bans from Canada.
More commonly, small errors lead to requests for additional information, delays, or refusals that could have been prevented with proper guidance.
Strategic Profile Review:
We analyze your credentials, work experience, and language abilities to ensure your profile is optimized for the highest possible CRS score.
NOC Code Selection:
Choosing the right National Occupational Classification code is critical. We review your job duties and match them to the most appropriate NOC category.
Document Preparation Guidance:
We provide detailed checklists and templates for reference letters and supporting documents that meet IRCC's requirements.
Timeline Management:
The 60-day post-ITA deadline is firm. We help you understand what's required and develop a realistic timeline for document gathering and submission.
Quality Assurance:
Before submission, we review everything to catch inconsistencies, missing information, or weak areas that could trigger refusals.
PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMS & EXPRESS ENTRY
Boost Your CRS Score by 600 Points
One of the most powerful strategies for Express Entry success is obtaining a Provincial Nomination. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply in the next draw.
Many provinces and territories operate Express Entry-aligned streams within their Provincial Nominee Programs. These streams allow provinces to nominate candidates directly from the Express Entry pool who have skills and experience that match their labour market needs.
Two Pathways:
Enhanced Nomination:
You create an Express Entry profile first. If a province is interested in your profile, they may send you a Notification of Interest. You then apply to that province's program. If nominated, you receive 600 additional CRS points.
Base Nomination:
You apply directly to a provincial program. If nominated, you then create your Express Entry profile with the nomination already in hand, immediately receiving 600 CRS points.
Popular Express Entry-Aligned Provincial Programs:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Human Capital Priorities Stream, French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Skills Immigration – Express Entry BC
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP): Express Entry Stream
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Express Entry Sub-Category
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Skilled Workers in Manitoba Stream
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Labour Market Priorities Stream
- Prince Edward Island PNP: Express Entry Stream
It depends on the stream. Some provincial streams require a job offer from an employer in that province. Others, like Ontario's Human Capital Priorities Stream, draw candidates directly from the Express Entry pool based on their profiles without requiring job offers.
If your CRS score is below recent draw cutoffs and unlikely to improve significantly, pursuing a provincial nomination may be your best strategy. We help you identify which provincial programs match your profile and guide you through the application process.
HOW WE HELP — YOUR TWO SERVICE OPTIONS
Every Express Entry journey is unique. That’s why we offer two service levels designed to match your needs, comfort level, and complexity of your case.
Option 1: Professional Verified
Perfect for profile creation and CRS optimization.
This service is ideal if you want expert guidance on creating a strong Express Entry profile, understanding your CRS score, and developing a strategy to improve it.
- You're confident handling your own application but want professional review
- You want to optimize your CRS score before entering the pool
- You're exploring Express Entry and need strategic advice
- You want to avoid profile creation mistakes
Comprehensive Profile Review
We analyze your education, work experience, language test results, and other factors to determine your eligibility and potential CRS score.
CRS Score Optimization Strategy
We identify opportunities to increase your CRS score — whether through language retests, additional credentials, Provincial Nominee Programs, or other strategies.
NOC Code Selection Guidance
We help you choose the most appropriate National Occupational Classification code for your work experience.
Profile Creation Checklist
Detailed guidance on completing your Express Entry profile accurately to maximize your CRS score.
12-Month Strategy Plan
If your current CRS score is too low, we develop a roadmap for improving it over the next year.
Investment:
$750 (Professional Verified)
Option 2: Full Representation
We handle everything for you.
This service is for candidates who have received an Invitation to Apply and want full professional representation for their permanent residence application.
- You've received an ITA and need complete application support
- You want stress-free, fully managed submission
- You have a complex case or previous refusal
- You value peace of mind and expert oversight
Complete Application Preparation
We prepare all required forms, review all supporting documents, and compile your complete application package.
Document Review & Templates
We provide templates for reference letters and review all documents for compliance with IRCC requirements.
Quality Assurance Review
Comprehensive review of your entire application before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Timeline Management
We help you meet the 60-day ITA deadline by managing document gathering and submission timelines.
IRCC Communication
We act as your authorized representative and handle all correspondence with IRCC on your behalf.
Ongoing Support
Guidance and updates throughout the IRCC review process until you receive your decision.
Investment:
Starting from $4,500 (Full Representation)
Final quote provided after initial consultation based on your specific situation.
Still Not Sure Which Option Fits?
Book a free 15-minute discovery call. We’ll discuss your situation and help you choose the service level that matches your needs, timeline, and comfort level.
EXPRESS ENTRY ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Do You Qualify for Express Entry?
Before creating your Express Entry profile, ensure you meet the minimum requirements for at least one of the three programs.
Language Proficiency:
You must take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF Canada for French) and meet minimum Canadian Language Benchmark levels for your program.
Educational Credentials:
If your education is from outside Canada, you'll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization to prove its Canadian equivalency.
Work Experience:
Your work experience must be in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) and meet the minimum duration for your program.
Admissibility:
You must be admissible to Canada (no serious criminal record, no security concerns, medically admissible).
Proof of Funds:
Some programs require you to show you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family in Canada (not required if you have a valid job offer or Canadian work experience).
Settlement Funds Required (2026):
- 1 person: $14,690 CAD
- 2 people: $18,288 CAD
- 3 people: $22,483 CAD
- 4 people: $27,297 CAD
- 5 people: $30,690 CAD
- 6 people: $34,917 CAD
- 7+ people: $38,875 CAD
Federal Skilled Worker: 67/100 points, 1+ year foreign work experience, CLB 7, proof of funds (if no job offer)
Canadian Experience Class: 1+ year Canadian work experience, CLB 7 (NOC 0/1) or CLB 5 (NOC 2/3), no proof of funds required
Federal Skilled Trades: 2+ years trade experience, CLB 5/4, valid job offer OR provincial certificate of qualification
Not Sure If You Qualify?
We'll assess your credentials, calculate your potential CRS score, and determine which Express Entry program gives you the strongest chance of success.
BENEFITS OF EXPRESS ENTRY
Why Choose Express Entry for Your Permanent Residence
Express Entry offers several advantages over other immigration pathways, making it the preferred choice for hundreds of thousands of skilled workers each year.
Most applications are processed within 6 months from ITA, significantly faster than many other PR pathways.
You don't need a job offer to qualify for most Express Entry programs (though it helps your CRS score if you have one).
The points-based system is transparent and objective. You know exactly where you stand and what you need to do to improve your chances.
Three federal programs plus Provincial Nominee Program connections give you multiple pathways to qualify.
IRCC conducts Express Entry draws typically every two weeks, giving you frequent opportunities to receive an ITA.
Your spouse/partner and dependent children can be included in your application and receive PR status with you.
Unlike some provincial programs, Express Entry gives you the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada (except Quebec, which has its own system).
Once you're a permanent resident, you're on the path to Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
You're not tied to a specific employer or location (except if you receive a provincial nomination, which may have settlement requirements).
Everything is managed through IRCC's online portal — no paper applications to mail or courier.
How We Charge: Clear, Fair, and Transparent
We believe you should know exactly what to expect. Our fees are straightforward, with no hidden costs or surprises.
WHY CHOOSE IPJ IMMIGRATION FOR YOUR EXPRESS ENTRY APPLICATION
Experienced in Both Simple and Complex Cases
From straightforward applications to misrepresentation, inadmissibility, and procedural fairness letters, we bring over 20 years of experience to every situation — whether you need full representation or a guided review before submitting.
Warm, Human Support for Every Client
We take the time to understand your story, your goals, and your concerns. You’re never treated like a file number — you’re a person, and your journey matters.
ESL‑Friendly Communication
We explain every step in clear, simple language. No jargon. No confusion. Just steady, accessible guidance that supports both full‑service clients and those completing their own applications.
Thorough, Organized Application Preparation
Every form, document, and submission is reviewed with care to reduce delays and strengthen your application — including detailed reviews for clients who want expert feedback before submitting on their own.
Transparent, Predictable Process
You always know what stage you’re in, what comes next, and what we’re doing on your behalf. No surprises, no uncertainty
Clear, Steady Guidance You Can Trust
Immigration can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re preparing your application on your own. We provide calm, organized support so you always know what to expect and how to move forward.
A Women‑Led, Family‑Run Firm
Our approach is grounded in empathy, integrity, and genuine care — values that shape every interaction and every application we support.
A Lawyer and Immigration Consultants Working Together
Your application benefits from a team that combines legal insight with regulated Canadian immigration consulting. Our professionals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, and we maintain active memberships with CILA and CAPIC to stay current with evolving policies and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens your strategy, reduces errors, and ensures your case is reviewed from multiple professional perspectives.
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Our Associations
What Our Clients Say
Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Express Entry is Canada's application management system for three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. It uses a points-based ranking system (CRS) to select candidates for permanent residence.
No, you don't need a job offer to qualify for most Express Entry programs. However, a valid job offer can significantly boost your CRS score (50-200 additional points depending on the job's NOC category).
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is calculated based on factors including age, education, work experience, language ability, and additional factors like provincial nominations or job offers. Scores range from 0-1,200 points.
CRS cutoff scores vary with each draw. Recent general draws have ranged from 500-540+. Program-specific and category-based draws may have different cutoffs. Provincial nominees (with 600 bonus points) virtually always receive ITAs.
Your profile remains in the pool for 12 months. If you don't receive an ITA within that time, you can create a new profile and re-enter the pool.
Yes, you can update your profile at any time while it's in the pool. In fact, you should update it if your circumstances change (e.g., improved language scores, new work experience, birthday).
You have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application with all required supporting documents. This deadline is firm and extensions are rarely granted.
From receiving your ITA to a decision on your PR application typically takes about 6 months, assuming you submit a complete application. From profile creation to PR can be 6-18 months total depending on how quickly you receive an ITA.
Required documents include police certificates, medical exam results, proof of funds, reference letters from employers, educational documents, language test results, identity documents, and other documents specific to your situation.
An ECA is a report that verifies your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian credential. It's required for most Express Entry applicants with foreign education and affects your CRS score.
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. They must meet health and security requirements and will receive PR status along with you if approved.
It depends on your CRS score calculation. Sometimes including a spouse increases your score (if they have strong credentials), and sometimes applying alone gives you a higher score. We can help you determine the best strategy.
A provincial nomination from one of Canada's provinces or territories adds 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing you'll receive an ITA in the next draw. Many provinces have Express Entry-aligned nomination streams.
Yes, you can apply from inside or outside Canada. Canadian work experience (if you have it) can boost your CRS score through the Canadian Experience Class program.
If refused, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons. Depending on the reason, you may be able to reapply with a stronger application. Serious issues like misrepresentation can result in five-year bans.
Your Express Entry profile is your initial submission to enter the pool — it's not an application for PR. If you receive an ITA, you then submit a complete PR application with supporting documents. These are two distinct stages.
Introduced in 2023, category-based draws target candidates with specific attributes (e.g., French proficiency, healthcare experience, STEM occupations) even if their CRS score is lower than general draws.
Not legally required, but professional guidance significantly increases your chances. Many use our Professional Verified service for strategic guidance and profile review, while others prefer Full Representation for complete peace of mind.
How Would You Like to Get Started?
You can reach us in the way that feels most comfortable for you. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can book a consultation. If you’re still deciding between Guided Application Review and Full Care Representation, you can complete a short questionnaire and receive a personalized recommendation within 24 hours.
Book a Consultation
Free 15‑Minute Discovery Call
A short conversation to understand your situation and help you choose between Full Care Representation and Guided Application Review.
Paid 45‑Minute Consultation
A focused session for specific needs such as strategy, refusals, restoring status, or detailed immigration questions.
Clear, practical guidance tailored to your case.
Start With a Guided Questionnaire
Complete a short questionnaire to help us understand your comfort level, your timeline, and the complexity of your situation. A licensed consultant will review your answers and get back to you within 24 hours with a clear, personalized recommendation.