The Canadian government recently removed the additional CRS points that were previously granted for certain types of job offers—changing how candidates are ranked in the Express Entry system. As a result, applicants will need to stay competitive based on other factors like language proficiency, education, and work experience.

What is Express Entry & who is it for?

Express Entry Canada is an application process for skilled workers who would like to permanently live in Canada (i.e., gain permanent residency). You can find out if you qualify as a skilled worker by filling out a quick online eligibility questionnaire (find out more on this below).

What is the Express Entry draw

An “Express Entry draw” is process through which the Canadian government decides who receives an invitation to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. It selects the highest-ranking candidates from the applications received. How you rank as a candidate is based on a number of different factors.

With Express Entry draws set to reopen soon, anyone interested in immigrating to Canada should submit their application now to increase their chances of receiving an invitation.

What are the steps I need to take to qualify for Express Entry Canada?

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Check your eligibility for Express Entry Canada by completing this short eligibility questionnaire.

Step 2: Estimate your ranking for the Express Entry draw

To be invited to submit an Express Entry Canada application, you need a specific score on the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System). You can estimate your score here: CRS Tool: Estimate your ranking score

Step 3: Book an IELTS language test & prepare your documents

If you haven’t taken an English language test yet, now is the time to book your IELTS test. IELTS is accepted by the Government of Canada as proof of English proficiency for Express Entry applications, and the results are valid for two years.

In addition, you might be required to provide extra documentation as part of your Express Entry application. You view the list here: Documents for Express Entry

Step 4: Creating an Express Entry Profile

Once you have gathered all the required documents, the next step is to create and submit your Express Entry profile to be eligible for the upcoming draw. You can create and submit your Express Entry profile here: Create Express Entry Profile

Step 5: Await your invitation, then apply

Following the submission of your profile, you wait for your invitation for Express Entry Canada. Once you receive an invitation, you have 60 days to submit your full application along with the necessary documents. You can do that by clicking here: Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry

Improve your chances of

receiving an Express Entry Canada invitation by scoring well on your IELTS test

Getting a good score in your IELTS test is a great way of improving your CRS score, and therefore your chances for an Express Entry invitation.

At the British Council, we offer a wide range of free preparation resources to help you get ready for your IELTS test and boost your score. Access them online by signing up for our free IELTS Study Pack here: IELTS Ready.

Still need to take an English language test for your application? We offer wide IELTS test availability across Canada; find a convenient date and location that works for you. book your IELTS test now.