A Guide to the Express Entry Program
Canada is a popular destination for skilled workers who are looking for new opportunities and a high quality of life. The Canadian government offers several immigration programs that are designed to attract skilled workers from around the world, including the Express Entry program. If you are a skilled worker who is interested in immigrating to Canada, this guide will provide an overview of the Express Entry program and the steps you need to take to apply.
What is the Express Entry Program?
The Express Entry program is an immigration program that is designed for skilled workers who want to move to Canada permanently. It is a points-based system that uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess candidates based on their age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Candidates who score the highest number of points are invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
The Express Entry program covers three main streams: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). To be eligible for the program, you must meet the requirements for one of these streams and create an online profile through the Express Entry system.
How to Apply for the Express Entry Program
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before you apply for the Express Entry program, you need to determine if you are eligible. This includes assessing your language proficiency, education, work experience, and other factors. You can use the Canadian government's Come to Canada tool to determine your eligibility and identify which immigration program may be right for you.
Step 2: Complete Language Tests
One of the key factors in the CRS system is language proficiency. You will need to take a language test to prove your proficiency in either English or French. The most commonly accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for English and the Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) for French.
Step 3: Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment
If you completed your education outside of Canada, you will need to obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to prove that your education is equivalent to Canadian standards. There are several organizations that provide ECAs, including World Education Services (WES), International Credential Assessment Service (ICAS), and Comparative Education Service (CES).
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Once you have completed the first three steps, you can create an online profile through the Express Entry system. You will need to provide information about your age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Based on this information, you will be assigned a CRS score and entered into a pool of candidates.
Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply
Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. If you receive an invitation to apply, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application, including supporting documents such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds. The Canadian government aims to process applications within six months.
Conclusion
The Express Entry program is a popular immigration program for skilled workers who want to move to Canada permanently. By following these steps and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can apply for the program and potentially receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency. With its strong economy, excellent healthcare system, and high quality of life, Canada is a great destination for skilled workers who are looking for new opportunities.