Express Entry.
For skilled workers with education, work experience and strong English or French.
At a glance
Express Entry manages three federal programs. You create a profile, get a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and the highest-ranked candidates are invited to apply in regular draws. We don’t track draw results here; for live draw news, see CIC News. Live draw results ↗
Five steps, at a glance.
An overview of the process. Requirements change, so always check IRCC before you apply.
Check you’re eligible
Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Trades, each with its own requirements.
Take a language test and get your education assessed
Approved English or French test results and, for foreign degrees, an educational credential assessment.
Create your profile
You get a CRS score and enter the pool of candidates.
Receive an invitation to apply
Invitations go out in draws, some for all programs and some for specific categories or occupations.
Submit your application
Upload documents, pay fees, then complete biometrics and a medical exam. If approved, you get your Confirmation of Permanent Residence.
Who it’s for, and who it isn’t.
Usually a fit if
- You have at least one year of skilled work experience
- You can score well on an approved language test
- You have post-secondary education, ideally assessed
- You can show settlement funds (unless exempt)
Probably not for you if
- You don’t yet have skilled work experience
- Your language scores are low. Improving them is often the fastest way to raise your CRS
- Your occupation or score fits a provincial program better
What you’ll usually need.
Collect documents early, since some take months to get. Government fees change; check IRCC’s fee list for current amounts.
- Passport
- Language test results
- Educational credential assessment
- Reference letters for work experience
- Proof of funds (bank letters)
- Police certificates
- Medical exam
Then comes settling.
Approval is the start. Here’s what comes next.
First 30 days
SIN, bank, phone, health card, in the right order.
Housing
From a temporary stay to your first lease.
Banking
Open an account and start building credit.
Send money home
Compare what your family actually receives.
Before you land
Documents, money and a place to stay.
Choose a city
Rent, jobs and communities compared.
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