Canada’s Express Entry system is the primary path for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada and gain permanent resident status. In 2015, Express Entry became the most popular and efficient way for immigrants with eligible skills, education, work experience, and language abilities to achieve permanent residency in Canada under significant federal economic programs.
What is Express Entry in Canada?
Express Entry (EE) is an online application management system introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in 2015. It manages applications for three major federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Express Entry allows Canada to select the top candidates who meet the criteria for these programs to apply for permanent residence.
Candidates start by creating an online EE profile where they provide information about their skills, education, language ability, work experience and other details. Those who meet the minimum eligibility requirements for one of the programs are placed into the Express Entry pool.
IRCC conducts regular invitation rounds, known as Express Entry draws, during which the highest-ranked candidates in the pool may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
While Express Entry is widely regarded as one of the most efficient pathways for skilled workers to apply for permanent residence in Canada, meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation, as selection is competitive and draw criteria can change over time.
Who is Eligible for Express Entry?
To be eligible to apply through EE in 2025, you must meet the minimum criteria for one of the three immigration programs above. Let’s review the basic requirements for each program:
Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is for candidates with skilled work experience and high levels of human capital, including education, language skills, and other factors. The minimum requirements are:
- Minimum language proficiency of CLB 7 in English or French
- At least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time skilled work experience in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation within the last 10 years
- A Canadian secondary school diploma or a foreign credential assessed as equivalent through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Federal Skilled Trades Program
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is for qualified tradespeople with experience in an eligible skilled trade. The minimum criteria are:
- At least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a specified skilled trade within the last five years
- A CLB 5 or higher in speaking/listening and CLB 4 or higher in reading/writing
- Meet job offer requirements OR have a Certificate of Qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian authority.
Canadian Experience Class
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) pathway is for skilled foreign workers with at least one year of full-time skilled work experience gained in Canada. The minimum requirements are:
- 1 year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience gained in Canada within the last 3 years
- Meet language requirements for your skill type (CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A, CLB 5 for NOC B)
- Experience must be in managerial jobs, professional occupations, technical jobs or skilled trades.
In addition to meeting the basic eligibility requirements above, candidates are ranked under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Those with the highest scores are invited to apply through regular Express Entry draws.
How to Apply for Express Entry in Canada
To apply for Express Entry, you need to follow the three steps below carefully:
Step 1: Create Your Online Express Entry Profile
This is where you provide information about your skills, education, language ability, work experience and other details. Make sure you have all your supporting documents ready.
Acceptable documents include:
- Language test results
- Educational credential assessment
- Proof of work experience letters
- Valid passport
- Etc.
If you meet the criteria for one of the programs, you’ll be accepted into the pool of candidates where you’ll be ranked.
Step 2: Get Invited to Apply
The highest-ranked candidates in the pool are invited to apply through regular Express Entry invitation rounds.
If you get an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you’ll have 60 days to submit a complete application.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
In this stage, you have to complete the full permanent residence application, including forms, documents, fees, medical exams, etc.
IRCC’s service standard aims to process a complete permanent residence application in about six months after submission. However, waiting for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) can add significant time to the overall process.
How Much Does Express Entry Cost?
While creating an Express Entry profile is free, there are mandatory costs associated with the application process. These costs can be divided into two stages: expenses incurred before receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and fees paid after an ITA is issued.
Upfront Costs (Before Receiving an ITA)
These costs are typically required to determine eligibility and create a valid Express Entry profile.
| Item | Average Cost (per person) | Notes |
| Language Test | ~$300 CAD | Cost varies by test provider and country. |
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | ~$240 CAD + courier fees | Required for FSWP and highly recommended for all. |
These costs are paid regardless of whether you ultimately receive an Invitation to Apply.
Application Costs (After Receiving an ITA)
Once you receive an ITA and submit a permanent residence application, the following government fees apply. All fees are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and are subject to change.
| Item | Fee (per person) | Notes |
| Application Processing Fee | $950 CAD | For principal applicant and spouse/partner. |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee | $575 CAD | For principal applicant and spouse/partner. Not for dependent children. |
| Dependent Child Fee | $260 CAD | Per child. |
| Biometrics | $85 CAD | Per person, or $170 for a family of 2 or more. |
| Medical Examination | ~$300-500 CAD | Varies by country and clinic. |
| Police Certificates | Varies by country | Can range from free to over $100. |
According to IRCC, government application fees are non-refundable once processing has begun, even if an application is refused.
Source: Express Entry Canada: All You Need To Know – moving2canada.com
All government fees outlined above are charged on a per-person basis, unless otherwise specified. Creating an Express Entry profile itself does not require payment of any government application fees.
Because immigration fees are subject to change, applicants are strongly encouraged to verify the most current fee amounts directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before submitting an application.
Comprehensive Ranking System in Express Entry
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is how EE candidates are ranked against each other in the pool. CRS continues to be the core points-based system used by IRCC to issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
Points are awarded across these significant factors:
- Core human capital factors
- Spouse or common-law partner factors
- Skill transferability factors
- Additional points
In recent years, competitive CRS scores have typically been higher for general draws, while category-based and PNP-linked draws may invite candidates with lower scores.
Improve Your Core Human Capital Factors
Focus on maximizing points from age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. Achieving CLB 9 or higher in language tests significantly increases CRS scores through skill transferability. Additional education, such as a Master’s degree, can also improve your ranking.
Increase Points for Your Spouse or Partner
If applicable, your spouse or common-law partner can contribute CRS points through language test results, Canadian education, or Canadian work experience.
Maximize Skill Transferability Points
Skill transferability points are awarded for combinations of education, language ability, and work experience. Strong language scores combined with foreign or Canadian work experience can substantially increase your CRS ranking. Bilingual candidates with proficiency in both English and French may earn additional points.
Try to Get Additional Points
Candidates may receive extra points for factors such as having a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, holding a valid arranged employment offer that meets CRS requirements, or receiving a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points and virtually guarantees an ITA.
How Long are Express Entry Processing Times?
Express Entry processing times can vary depending on several factors, including the timing of an Invitation to Apply (ITA), application completeness, and case complexity. While processing timelines may fluctuate, IRCC continues to publish service standards that provide a general benchmark for applicants.
Processing times can be broken into two phases:
- Waiting for an ITA: This is the most variable part. It depends entirely on your CRS score and the cut-off scores in the draws. It can take days, months, or you may not be invited within the 12-month profile validity period.
- Permanent Residence Application Processing: Once you submit a complete application after receiving an ITA, IRCC’s service standard is to process it within 6 months. Some straightforward applications may be faster, while complex cases can take longer.
The total timeline to achieve permanent residency can vary significantly, taking anywhere from under a year to much longer based on the time spent waiting in the pool.
Settlement Funds Required for Express Entry
If you are applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Federal Skilled Trades Program, you must prove you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival. CEC applicants and those with a valid job offer are exempt.
The required amounts are updated annually. The table below is based on the update from July 7, 2025.
| Family Size | Minimum Settlement Funds Required |
| 1 | $15,263 |
| 2 | $19,001 |
| 3 | $23,360 |
| 4 | $28,362 |
| 5 | $32,168 |
| 6 | $36,280 |
| 7 | $40,392 |
| For each additional family member | Add $4,112 |
Source: Proof of funds – Canada.ca
Proof of funds must be in the form of bank statements or official letters issued by your financial institution. Funds must be readily available to you.
The funds shown above are the minimum amount. It is wise to have access to more than the minimum when possible.
What’s Changing in Express Entry in 2026?
The landscape of Express Entry is expected to evolve in 2026. In late 2025, the government signalled potential updates that may affect the upcoming application cycle.
New Express Entry Category for International Doctors
In December 2025, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and Maggie Chi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, officially announced a new Express Entry category designed for international doctors. This category requires at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical occupation gained within the past three years.
The measure aims to support Canada’s health care system by allowing physicians already practising in Canada on a temporary basis to apply for permanent residence. Invitations under this category are expected to begin in early 2026.
Proposed New Priority Categories
The government has proposed additional priority categories for targeted selection in 2026. These proposals are subject to final approval and have not yet been officially implemented. The proposed categories include:
- Senior Leadership: Targeting senior managers who drive business operations.
- Research & Innovation: Focusing on scientists and researchers who contribute to Canada’s productivity.
- National Security: A specialized stream for military personnel and defence specialists.
Source: IRCC consultation – Express Entry 2026 survey
Major NOC System Overhaul
Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system is scheduled for a major review in 2026, as part of the regular five-year update cycle. This review may redefine certain job titles and duties, but final outcomes have not yet been confirmed.
Expansion of Language Testing Options
IRCC has indicated it may consider accepting the TOEFL exam for English proficiency, in addition to the existing IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE Core options. Any changes to accepted language tests are subject to confirmation and have not yet been officially implemented.
Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a powerful tool to use with Express Entry. Most provinces and territories have “enhanced” PNP streams aligned with the Express Entry system.
If you receive a nomination from one of these streams, you get 600 additional CRS points. This score increase virtually guarantees you will receive an Invitation to Apply in the next draw.
Popular Express Entry-aligned PNP streams include:
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- British Columbia Skills Immigration (includes Express Entry options)
- Manitoba Express Entry Pathway
- New Brunswick Express Entry Stream
- Newfoundland and Labrador Express Entry Skilled Worker
- Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians & Experience: Express Entry
- Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream (including French-Speaking Skilled Worker and Skilled Trades)
- Prince Edward Island (PEI) PNP Express Entry
- Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker: Express Entry
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid in Your Express Entry Application?
Demonstrating expertise means avoiding simple errors that can lead to refusal or delays.
Misclassifying Your NOC/TEER:
Do not just match your job title. You must ensure the main duties listed in your reference letter align with the lead statement and main duties of the chosen TEER code on the official NOC website. A mismatch is a common reason for refusal.
Letting Documents Expire:
Your language test results are valid for two years. Your ECA is valid for five. If they expire while you are in the pool, your profile will become ineligible. If they expire after you receive an ITA, your application can be refused.
Incomplete Work Experience Letters:
Reference letters must be on company letterhead and include all information required by IRCC: job title, dates of employment, salary, hours per week, and a detailed list of your main duties.
Misrepresenting Information:
Never provide false information. This is called misrepresentation and carries a severe penalty: a five-year ban from applying for any Canadian immigration program. This includes “small” exaggerations about job duties or undeclared family members.
Not Having Proof of Funds Ready:
The funds must be readily available to you, and you must be able to show a history of these funds (typically for the last 6 months). Don’t wait until you get an ITA to arrange your finances.
Key Tips for Express Entry in Canada 2025
Follow these top tips when preparing your Express Entry profile and application:
- Target improving your human capital factors like work experience, education credentials, age and language ability.
- Research which NOC codes give you the most points and correctly represent your work.
- Have an ECA done for your foreign education and training.
- Provide clear and accurate details in your Express Entry profile to avoid processing delays or refusal.
- Be prepared to provide all requested documentation – have everything scanned and certified ahead of time.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest Express Entry news and trends.
- Work with an authorized and reputable immigration representative if you need support.
The Bottom Line
Express Entry will continue to be the main economic pathway for immigration to Canada in 2025 and beyond. With a skilled profile and thorough preparation, you can maximize your chances of being invited to apply and successfully gain permanent residence.
Follow Canada’s labour market priorities, target improving your human capital, and leverage provincial nominations to stand out. With persistence and patience, your dreams of immigrating through EE can become a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Applying to Express Entry
How can I check the status of my Express Entry profile?
You can log in to your IRCC account and, under "view submitted applications," click on your Express Entry profile to see the status.
How long are Express Entry profiles valid?
Express Entry profiles stay active in the pool for 12 months after submission. You can re-submit your profile if you are not invited within 12 months.
How long do I have to apply after getting an ITA?
You have 60 days from the date of your ITA to submit your complete permanent residence application.
Can I work in Canada while my application is being processed?
Yes, if you already have a valid work permit, you can keep working while you wait for your permanent residence application to be processed.
What happens if my profile expires?
If you do not receive an ITA within 12 months, your profile is removed from the pool. You can submit a new profile immediately to re-enter the pool. Many candidates use this opportunity to improve language scores, gain additional work experience, or pursue provincial nominations.
Can international students apply for Express Entry?
Yes. International graduates often qualify through the Canadian Experience Class after gaining at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience, usually on a Post-Graduation Work Permit. Canadian education and work experience significantly improve CRS scores.
What language tests are accepted for Express Entry?
For English, IRCC accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, and PTE Core.
For French, accepted tests are TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Most programs require at least CLB 7 in all four skills, but achieving CLB 9 or higher can significantly increase your CRS score.
Can I apply for Express Entry without a job offer?
Yes, a job offer is not mandatory for Express Entry. However, a valid job offer can add 50-200 points to your CRS score depending on the position. Many candidates successfully receive ITAs based on their education, work experience, language skills, and age alone.
Can I update my Express Entry profile after submission?
Yes, you can update your profile at any time while it's in the pool. You should update it immediately if you gain more work experience, improve your language scores, complete additional education, or receive a provincial nomination, as these changes can increase your CRS score.
Can my spouse or partner improve my Express Entry score?
Yes. If you are married or in a common-law relationship, your spouse or partner may add points to your CRS score through their education, language skills, and Canadian work experience. The exact number of points depends on each individual profile. You may also choose to make your spouse the principal applicant if their profile is higher scoring.
