Express Entry Program

The Express Entry Program is a comprehensive system that manages applications for permanent residence from skilled workers in Canada. It includes three economic immigration programs: The Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The Federal Skilled Worker Program is one of the best-known immigration programs in Canada. It is designed for foreign nationals who have skills and experience in occupations that are in demand in Canada.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants need to meet the following criteria:

• Work Experience: A minimum of one year (1,560 hours total / 30 hours per week), continuous full-time or an equal amount in part-time, paid work in the same job within the last ten years at TEER 0, or TEER level 1 or 2 of the 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC).
• Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French. The minimum threshold is Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 for English and Niveau de Compétence Linguistique Canadien (NCLC) 7 for French, demonstrated by approved language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, etc).
• Education: Applicants need at least a Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree, or an equivalent foreign credential, along with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from an approved organization.

Application Process

Applicants must first create an online Express Entry profile where they provide information about their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other details. Those who meet the criteria will then be accepted into a pool of candidates, ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and potentially invited to apply for permanent residence.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

This program is for qualified tradespeople in dozens of high-demand occupations, such as electricians, welders, carpenters, plumbers, and more.

Requirements

• Work Experience: Applicants need at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the five years before you apply.
• Language Proficiency: The minimum threshold is lower than for the FSWP: CLB 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing, demonstrated by approved language tests.
• Job Offer: Have a full-time employment offer for a total period of at least one year, or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

Application Process

The application process is similar to the FSWP. Applicants must create an online Express Entry profile, enter the pool of candidates, and then may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence if they have one of the highest-ranking scores based on the CRS.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class is for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants need to meet the following criteria:

• Language Proficiency: The minimum threshold depends on the level of the job. For TEER 0 or 1 jobs it’s CLB 7. For TEER 2 jobs, it’s CLB 5.
• Work Experience: Have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada, gained with proper authorization within three years of the date of application.
• Residency: Must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,460 days during the six years immediately before the date of application.

Application Process

Just like with FSWP and FSTP, applicants create an online profile, enter the Express Entry pool, and those with the highest-ranking scores may receive an ITA for permanent residence.

In Pathway2Canada, we have a team of dedicated immigration consultants and advisors who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to help guide you through these complex processes. Our professionals remain updated with the latest changes in the immigration laws and policies, ensuring that your case is handled with the most current and accurate information.

We prioritize understanding your unique circumstances, goals, and aspirations to provide you with the most effective and personalized immigration solutions. Your journey to Canadian residency is important to us, and we’re committed to providing the support and guidance you need every step of the way.