A Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry in Canada
The Canadian Express Entry program is a popular avenue for immigrants trying to take up residency in Canada. However, like most Canadian immigration processes, it can get a bit complicated. In this guide, we will break down the process into simple steps so that you can have a better understanding of everything that goes into the Express Entry program.
What is Express Entry?
In simple terms, Express Entry is a Canadian immigration program for people who are trying to take up permanent residency in Canada. The system is set up like a lottery, where you make an online profile and share details about your skills, education, work experience, and more, after which the government gives you a score based on your responses. Every so often, the government of Canada selects the people with the highest scores and sends them an invitation to apply for permanent residency. If you get invited, you are required to send in all the necessary paperwork and wait for the government to decide whether you are allowed to be a permanent resident of Canada.
The Process
Step 1- Determine Your Eligibility
The very first thing to do when considering Express Entry, or any Canadian immigration pathway, is to find out if you are eligible. Factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability help you determine whether Express Entry is a route worth taking for you. Before committing to creating an online profile, it is important to make an honest assessment of your personal history and work experience. Additionally, depending on your country of origin, Express Entry requirements might be different in ways that might be more beneficial or less beneficial. A quick and efficient way to find out if this is a good option for you is to hire an immigration consultant who will assess your eligibility based on the information you provide and let you know if this program will benefit you or if there is another pathway that will give you more success.
Step 2- Complete Language Tests
Canada’s official languages are English and French. You will have to prove that you are proficient in either of these in order to maximize your chances of success. The two accepted English Language Proficiency Tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) while The French language proficiency test is called the Test d’evaluation de francais (TEF). These test results are valid for 2 years, and the goal is to get the highest score possible since the higher your language proficiency test score is, the more points you will get for your Express Entry profile, and the better your chances of getting your invitation to apply for permanent residency.
Step 3- Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
This is important for people who have completed their education outside of Canada. The purpose of this is to assess how your academic accomplishments compare with Canadian standards. To get an ECA, you will need to submit your academic transcripts, diplomas, degrees, and any other relevant documents to an authorized organization. The organization will then assess your credentials and give you a report that shows how your education compares to Canadian standards. It is also important to note that the report is only valid for a specific period of time, so do your research before committing to an organization to get your ECA.
Step 4- Create Your Express Entry Profile
Now it’s finally time to create your Express Entry profile. The step-by-step instructions on how to create your profile can be found on the Government of Canada website. The website also answers frequently asked questions and gives a breakdown of the process and what you can expect. You will need to provide detailed information about your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other information. It is important to make sure that all the information you provide is correct and up-to-date so that there will be no issues if you receive an invitation and are required to submit your documents. Once your profile is finished, you will receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This score is calculated based on the answers you provided when you created your Express Entry profile. The higher your CRS score, the better your chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Step 5- Enter the Express Entry Pool
When you have received your CRS score, your profile will then be transferred to the Express Entry pool along with all the other candidates. Your CRS score will determine how your profile is ranked against the other candidates, and those with the most relevant scores based on the needs of the Canadian economy are more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply during the draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Your profile will remain in the pool for about twelve months, if you do not receive an invitation to apply. While your profile is in the pool, be sure to update the information if any changes have occurred during this time frame. Additionally, it is possible to improve your CRS score while in the Express Entry pool. You can do this by getting higher language test scores, gaining more work experience, obtaining a provincial nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or getting an LMIA job offer from a Canadian employer.
Step 6- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If a draw has been made and you are among the selected candidates, you will receive an Invitation to Apply which will be sent as a notification on your Express Entry profile. This is a very exciting part of your Express Entry journey since it means that you are one step closer to gaining permanent residency in Canada. Once you receive the invitation, you will have a limited amount of time to apply (60 days), so it is important to gather all the required documents beforehand. Also, the notification contains details about the invitation, such as the date of issuance and instructions for proceeding with your application. Be sure to go over all this information so you are aware of how to proceed.
Step 7- Submit Your Permanent Residency Application
Be sure to take a look at your ITA letter, which contains the instructions and deadlines for submitting your permanent residency application. It is also possible that you will be given specific requirements by the IRCC. You must then fill out your application forms correctly, be sure to avoid inconsistencies, and ensure that all information and documents provided are authentic. You can pay the application fees online through the IRCC portal, you should also keep proof of payment for your records. Most permanent residency applications are submitted online through the IRCC’s secure portal, which means you will have to upload your documents and submit your application electronically.
Step 8- Processing and Confirmation
The waiting game begins after you submit your application. The processing time can vary depending on the amount of applications IRCC has to process or the complexity of your case, The good news is you can always view the status of your application through your online account. If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document. This document proves that you have been granted permanent resident status in Canada.
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards making Canada your new home through the Express Entry program! At Berhan Immigration, we understand that the Express Entry process can be difficult, but our dedicated team is committed to helping you every step of the way. We believe that your success is our success, and we are here to make sure your Express Entry process is as easy as possible. Book a consultation with us today to find out if Express Entry is the route for you!
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