Express Entry
Canada's flagship skilled worker pathway to permanent residence
Express Entry is the federal government's online system for managing permanent residence applications from skilled workers. It manages three programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and the highest-scoring candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in regular draws.
Program Streams
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For individuals who have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years. No job offer required. Language proficiency (CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 or 1; CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3) is required.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
For foreign nationals with at least one year of continuous full-time skilled work experience abroad. Applicants must meet a minimum of 67 points on the FSW selection grid, covering language, education, experience, age, arranged employment, and adaptability.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
For workers in eligible skilled trades (NOC TEER 2) with at least two years of full-time experience. Requires either a job offer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province or territory.
Key Facts
- CRS score determines invitation priority — higher scores are invited first
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations add 600 CRS points
- Government fee: $1,590 per principal applicant; $1,590 per spouse; $270 per dependent child
- Target processing time: 6 months for complete applications
- No job offer required for CEC or FSW (though it boosts CRS score)