Before you start
Confirm you're eligible for at least one Express Entry program, and that your occupation is skilled. You'll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for education completed outside Canada and a valid language test result.
Step by step
- 1
Check eligibility
Confirm you meet the criteria for FSW, CEC, or FST based on your work experience, education, and language.
- 2
Get your ECA
Have foreign qualifications assessed by a designated organisation so they can be recognised for points.
- 3
Take a language test
Sit IELTS General Training, CELPIP, or PTE (English) — and TEF/TCF for French. Aim for CLB 9+ to maximise points.
- 4
Create your Express Entry profile
Enter your details to receive a CRS score and enter the pool of candidates.
- 5
Improve your CRS and wait for a draw
Boost your score (language, PNP, French) while draws take place regularly; the highest-ranked candidates get invited.
- 6
Receive an ITA and apply for PR
After an Invitation to Apply, submit your full PR application with documents and biometrics within the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Express Entry take?
After you receive an Invitation to Apply, IRCC aims to process most complete PR applications in around six months. The time spent in the pool before an invitation depends on your CRS score and draw cut-offs.
Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?
No. Many candidates are invited without a Canadian job offer. A provincial nomination (+600 CRS) is often more impactful than a job offer for getting invited.
What if my CRS is too low?
Focus on the highest-leverage improvements: a better language score, a provincial nomination, French, or more skilled experience. We assess your profile and build a plan to reach a competitive score.
Get a free profile assessment
Tell us your background and we'll map your best pathway across Canada and Australia within one business day.