Express Entry

Express Entry is Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) system for managing economic immigration applications submitted on or after January 1, 2015. It applies to several classes of immigration:

  • Federal skilled worker class (FSWC)
  • Federal skilled trades class (FSTC)
  • Canadian experience class (CEC)
  • A portion of the provincial nominee class (PNC)​​
  • Category-based (launched May 31, 2023 – See details below)
  • PROJECTED – Regional based Express Entry (details to come in late 2023 or early 2024)

In the Express Entry system, potential candidates must first complete an online profile. If they meet the criteria for one of the three federal immigration programs (FSWC, FSTC, and CEC), they are entered into the Express Entry pool. Candidates are then ranked based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which is based on criteria known to contribute to an immigrant’s economic success in Canada​​.

Periodically, the IRCC issues “rounds of invitations” to the highest-ranked candidates in the pool, inviting them to apply for permanent residence. However, being in the pool does not guarantee receiving an invitation, and receiving an invitation does not guarantee approval for permanent residence​​.

Applicants must provide proof of the claims made in their Express Entry profile when they submit their application. Any misrepresentation may lead to a refusal of the application and a potential five-year ban from submitting any further immigration applications to Canada​.

For Canadian employers, IRCC also provides outreach services to increase awareness and use of the Express Entry system and to facilitate connections between employers and skilled labour overseas​.

The newly introduced Category-based Express Entry system aims to meet distinct economic goals by inviting candidates eligible for specific categories. These categories range from language proficiency to experience in pivotal sectors like Healthcare, STEM, Trades, Transport, and Agriculture & agri-food occupations. Each category is carefully chosen based on labor market projections and valuable inputs from nationwide partners. Explore our detailed breakdown of each category, their individual requirements, and the diverse occupations they encompass.

Category based

Express Entry overhaul in 2023


You only need 6 months continuous experience (within Canada out abroad) in previous 3 years to qualify. Obviously, ECA and Language Assessment is required.


For details, please go to the appropriate page to find more.

Agriculture

Agriculture and agri-food professionals, cultivate your future in Canada. Explore your immigration options.

Trades

Skilled tradespeople, Canada needs your expertise. Find out how you can make Canada your home.

Transport

Transportation professionals, your journey to permanent residence in Canada starts here. Learn more.

Healthcare

Healthcare professionals, your skills are in demand in Canada. Explore your options for permanent residence.

STEM

Put your STEM (Science, Technoloy, Engineering, and Math) skills to work and secure your future in Canada. Discover the opportunities.

French-Language

Showcase your French language proficiency and open doors to permanent residence in Canada. Learn more.

With ZipThruImmigration, embark on a smooth journey towards securing your future in Canada. Contact us to find more.