Express Entry Reforms – Latest Update
In 2022 the Canadian Government started the evaluation and preparation for the biggest reforms in history for the Canada Express Entry system, since it was introduced as an application management system in January, 2015.
Bill C-19 has been evaluated by Canada’s Parliament and the new policy goal is to allow Canada’s Immigration minister to be able to form groups based on occupations in demand, allowing Canadian temporary foreign workers of all skill levels to meet the full range of labour needs and pathways to Canadian permanent residence.
Up until now, IRCC was issuing ITAs based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and the Canada Express Entry program of eligibility. The CRS awards candidates a score based on criteria such as their age, education, language skills, and work experience. Those with the highest CRS score were invited by the Government to immigrate to Canada and have permanent residence.
The latest CRS draw score is 691 cut off score from the last recent draw offered in May this year and this means that anyone with this or a higher score will have received an invitation to apply for Canada’s Express Entry.
Why is the Express entry changing?
With an aging population, Canada will have 9 million retired Canadians by 2030, and with the low birth rate the impact will be huge on the economy, so Canada is relying on immigrants and work force. One of the ways to combat this the permanent residence program for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada.
The Canadian Express entry system and CRS in Canada have started improving the process by allowing candidates to be invited on a new basis focusing on the most pressing economic needs and urgent labour shortages.
How Express Entry works:
Step 1: Eligibility: To be eligible for Canadian Express Entry, you must meet the requirements of one of the three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled tradespeople with work experience in a specific trade.
Step 2: Creating an online profile: If you are eligible, you need to create an online profile through the Government of Canada’s website. You’ll provide information about your skills, education, work experience, language ability, and other details.
Step 3: Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score: Once you’ve created your profile, you’ll be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This score is based on factors like your age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and additional factors like having a job offer or a provincial nomination.
Step 4: Express Entry draws: Regularly, the Canadian government conducts Express Entry draws, where they issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with the highest CRS scores. Those who receive an ITA can then proceed to apply for permanent residency.
Step 5: Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you receive an ITA, you will have a limited time (usually around 60 days) to submit a complete application for permanent residency, including supporting documents and fees.
Step 6: Application for permanent residency: Once you’ve received an ITA, you’ll need to gather all the required documents, such as proof of education, work experience, language proficiency tests, and medical and background checks. You’ll then submit your application through the online portal.
Step 7: Application processing: The Canadian government will review your application and assess whether you meet all the eligibility requirements. They may request additional information or documentation if needed.
Step 8: Permanent residency decision: If your application is approved, you will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document. You can then proceed to travel to Canada as a permanent resident.
It’s important to note that Canada’s Express Entry is a highly competitive system, and meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation to apply or approval for permanent residency. The CRS scores of the candidates who receive ITAs vary in each draw, depending on the number of candidates and the specific requirements set by the Canadian government.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Express Entry and the Canadian immigration process, it’s recommended to visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
For any questions, help or support in this Express Entry process, we are inviting you to contact us and to book a consultation with our team.
