10 important facts about Entrée Express
Express Entry is Canada's main immigration system for skilled workers. Launched in 2015, it has become one of the fastest and most popular routes to permanent residency in Canada. If you're considering immigrating via Express Entry, here are 10 important facts to know:
1. Express Entry includes 3 different routes to permanent residence
Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residency. It is not a visa or an immigration program in itself, but a platform that brings together three economic programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program - FSWP
Federal Skilled Trades Program - FSTP
Canadian Experience Class - CEC
2. It operates on a points system: the SCG
Candidates are ranked using the Global Ranking System (GRS). Points are awarded according to factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills and adaptability. The higher your GCS score, the greater your chances of receiving an invitation.
3. Language skills are crucial
Your level of English or French has a major impact on your SCG score. Taking approved language tests such as IELTS, CELPIP or TEF can considerably improve your chances. A good score can make all the difference in competitive draws.
What's more, the Canadian government favors French-speaking candidates, and many of its recent draws have been specifically targeted at francophones. If you have a good level of French, you may qualify with a lower score than that required in other categories.
4. An evaluation of diplomas (EDE) is necessary
If you were educated outside Canada, you'll need to have your foreign credentials evaluated by an EDE (Educational Credential Evaluation) to prove their equivalence with a Canadian diploma. This is a requirement of the Skilled Worker Program, and will increase your CGS score.
An example of a reliable site for obtaining an EDE is WES (World Education Services): https: //www.wes.org
5. A job offer is not compulsory - but it can help
You don't need a job offer to apply via Express Entry, but a valid offer from a Canadian employer can give you up to 200 extra points, depending on the position. However, the offer must meet specific criteria to be eligible.
6. You need to create an online profile
To enter the Express Entry pool, you'll need to create a detailed online profile, including personal information, education, work experience, language test results and more. If you are eligible, you will be ranked among the other candidates.
7. Invitations are sent out at regular intervals.
The Canadian government organizes Express Entry draws every few weeks, where the top-ranked candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. The SCG threshold varies according to the draw, program objectives and pool profile.
8. Fast processing
One of the main advantages of Express Entry is the speed of processing. The majority of complete applications are processed in six months or less from receipt of the PDI, making it one of the fastest immigration options.
9. You can improve your SCG score
If your SCG score is insufficient, there are several ways to improve it:
Retake a language test to improve your score
Get an additional diploma
Gain more professional experience
Obtain a valid job offer or provincial appointment
10. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are linked to Express Entry.
Many Canadian provinces use Express Entry to select candidates via their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). A provincial nomination grants you an additional 600 SCG points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation.
Conclusion
Express Entry is a powerful tool for skilled workers looking to build a future in Canada, but it can be complex to master. A solid application requires good planning, complete documentation and a well-thought-out strategy. If you're ready to take the next step, working with an experienced immigration professional can make the process smoother and increase your chances of success.
At RB Immigration, we have experience in preparing applications under the Express Entry program. Would you like us to guide you through the process? Contact us at: info@rb-immigration.com
