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The phrase Express Entry is fast becoming a widely discussed one. Some have a total of understanding of what it is, some have a vague knowledge of it while others have no idea what it means. Regardless of which you fall under, the aim of this post is to give you a total understanding of what it is and the steps to be part of it if you’re interested.
So what is Express Entry? Express Entry is an electronic process through which the Federal government of Canada manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. So basically, the end product of the Express Entry is to migrate to Canada as a permanent Resident. This means if you successfully go through the process and are selected, you will become a permanent resident of Canada. Your next question is probably “How do I start the process?” I’ll be breaking down this posts into sub-topics to help you fully understand your eligibility and how to proceed if you’re eligible. There are 3 categories through which interested candidates can apply which are; Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program and Canadian Experience Class but the scope of my blog will be restricted to the Federal Skilled Worker Program because this has the highest number of applicants and was the same process I got my permanent residence through.
Eligibility Requirements
Skilled work experience: Your work experience must be a minimum of 1 year full-time (1,560 hours) in selected NOCs.
Language ability: You must be fluent in English or French. This will be proven through an approved language test. The most popular one for English is the British Council’s IELTS.
Education: If you went to school in Canada, you must have a certificate, diploma or degree from a Canadian institution. If you studied outside Canada, you must have an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from an approved agency showing that your foreign education is equal to a completed certificate, diploma or degree from a Canadian University. The two accepted ECA bodies are WES and IQAS.
Age: You have to be between the ages of 21-40 but note that you get the highest scores for age if you are between ages 28-30.
Proof of funds: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada, unless you have a valid job offer from an employer in Canada.
All these factors contribute to determining your eligibility and CRS score.
You can click here to determine your eligibility and potential CRS score.
How the Express Entry Pool Works
The best way I like to explain the Express entry pool is like a giant classroom with students waiting to be given admission. Every time a new cut-off score is set, the students that have this score and above are given admission. This close to how the Express Entry pool works. After you apply, you are placed in a pool with other applicants. 3 times monthly, a new cutoff is announced and applicants with the cutoff score and above are sent an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
After receiving an Invitation to Apply
After you’ve received an invitation to apply, you will be required to upload all the requirements to your profile and submit your application. Requirements include: International Passport photo page, Reference letter(s) from employer(s), passport photograph, proof of funds, police report, medical examination (at designated hospitals).
After you’ve submitted these, all you do is wait and if your application is approved, you’ll be asked to send your passport to the nearest embassy to be stamped with an immigrant visa.
Check out my YouTube video to help you further.
Disclaimer: Naija Canada Girl is not an immigration consultant and in no way affiliated with the Canadian immigration body or government. Tips and advice are strictly from personal experiences ans friends’ experiences.
