Express Entry Eligibility
Canada offers several economic immigration opportunities to permanent residence seekers. The Express Entry system has been established to accelerate the process of application for candidates who apply through these programs. It is a web based site where one can create a profile and make an application to be made under one of the available immigration streams.
It is also imperative to have a good profile to be successful and you may hire a professional to increase your chances of getting an invitation.
Express Entry eligibility requirements
In order to be included in the Express Entry pool, the candidates should qualify for at least one of the federal economic immigration programs. The satisfaction of these requirements makes your profile valid and competitive in the selection.
The Express Entry system consists of the following immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Certain streams under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Even though the requirements of each program are specific, certain minimum requirements can be applied to all applicants:
- At least one year of continuous skilled work experience
- Proof of language ability through approved English or French tests
- No serious criminal background
- Good health condition
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class dominates those who have previously worked or studied in Canada. This program would enable qualified candidates to move to permanent residency based on their work experience in Canada.
Before the application, the applicants should have one year of skilled, professional, or technical experience in Canada in the past three years. The job experience must be in managerial or professional jobs. Depending on the occupation, the language proficiency requirements are usually between CLB 5 and CLB 7.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is an excellent choice for professionals with a skilled background outside Canada. The job seekers should possess a minimum of one year of work experience in a job that is rated as skill level 0, A, or B.
A 100-point selection grid is used to gauge the applicants, and the minimum possible score is 67 points to pass. Marking is done according to the following factors:
Age:
The number of points is attributed to the age of the applicant at the moment of application. The highest points are awarded to individuals between 18 and 35, with the older applicants getting fewer points.
Education:
The applicants should also possess an equivalent of secondary education in Canada. Increased educational levels lead to increased points.
Work experience:
One year of experience in the workplace is necessary. The overall score can be augmented with years of experience.
Language ability:
Strong communication skills in English or French are essential. Candidates can earn significant points for their first official language and additional points for a second language.
Adaptability:
It can get points once the applicant has relatives in Canada or a spouse who can contribute to the settlement positively.
Arranged employment:
Accepting a valid job offer from one of the Canadian employers can earn an additional point as long as it complies with the requirements of the program.
The candidates who wish to be qualified under FSWP should have a minimum of 67 out of 100 points.
Federal Skilled Trade Class (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is targeted at persons who have experience in given trades. This is a channel through which qualified tradespeople can seek permanent residence on the basis of their expertise.
To be eligible, the candidates are required to possess a minimum of two years of full time experience in a skilled trade. They should also satisfy job requirements, have a valid job offer of at least one year or they should have a certificate of qualification issued by an organization in Canada.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Some of the Provincial Nominee Program streams are linked with Express Entry. The applicants under such streams should fulfill the conditions of one of the federal programs.
Getting a provincial nomination means a lot to build your profile as it gives you additional points on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which makes you have a higher chance of being selected.
Overcoming disqualification to become eligible for Express Entry
In case you are not up to the eligibility requirements, there is room to make your profile better. It is advisable to consult an immigration professional in order to discover any loopholes, and act accordingly.
Common areas for improvement include:
- Enhancing language test scores
- Gaining additional work experience
- Upgrading educational qualifications
Education or work experience in Canada can be particularly useful, as it will also make your profile stronger and raise your CRS score.
The Canadian Experience Class will be the most reachable gateway to many applicants who have acquired local experience. Working or studying in Canada has a high likelihood of qualifying.
In case you intend to apply for permanent residence under Express Entry, 2M immigration is there to assist you in all the steps. We also have professional staff who offer personalized counseling to assist you in creating a powerful profile and boost your odds of success.