Immigration Corner | The naked truth about Express Entry

Dear Miss Powell,

I am interested in Canada, but everyone I talk to are saying Express Entry is the best route. I want to know the truth about the Express Entry System. Does it make sense? Do I need a job offer first? What can you tell me about this system to ensure that if I try it, it works.

LL

Dear LL,

The Express Entry System serves as Canada’s primary tool for selecting economic immigrants under three federal programmes. These programmes are the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trade (FST) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Applicants are required to complete an online profile and receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines their ranking in the candidate pool. Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence are issued to the highest-scoring candidates.

In recent years, category-based invitation rounds have targeted occupations within healthcare, STEM, trades, education, agri-food and strong French language proficiency to meet labour market needs.

CRS IS ESSENTIAL

A high CRS score is central to success within the Express Entry System. The score reflects human capital factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience, as well as skill transferability. Since March 2025, Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) removed CRS points for job offers, meaning that candidates no longer receive either 50 or 200 extra points for arranged employment, although job offers remain relevant for certain immigration programmes.

COMPETITION IS FIERCE

Aspiring permanent residents must compete fiercely. Invitation rounds are held approximately every two weeks. Selection is usually based on the highest CRS scores, or in some cases, there are category-based draws. For example, the category-based draw held on 22 July 2025 invited 4,000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 475 for healthcare and social services occupations.

MAXIMISING CRS SCORES

To succeed, applicants must aim to maximise their CRS. Achieving high scores on the English language test, such as Canadian Language Benchmark level 9 or above, can produce significant points. Proficiency in French can also yield extra points if it reaches the required level. Possessing a master’s degree or higher is strongly advantageous, as advanced education provides a higher CRS than a bachelor’s degree. Points are also awarded for skill transferability when strong language ability aligns with education or experience.

OCCUPATIONS THAT ARE FAVOURED

Occupation is also critical. Canada has established category-based draws for healthcare and social services, STEM professions, trades, education and agriculture/agri-food. The healthcare category includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, dentists, respiratory therapists and social workers. STEM and trade professionals such as carpenters, plumbers and educators are likewise prioritised in specific rounds.

SETTLEMENT FUNDS AND PROVINCIAL NOMINATION

Although you will no longer get extra points for a valid job offer, proof of settlement funds remains mandatory for Federal Skilled Worker applicants who do not have a valid job offer, or provincial nomination. A single applicant must demonstrate approximately CAD$14,000. Couples may combine their resources which can strengthen their overall showing and possibly boost the CRS.

Securing a nomination through a Provincial Nominee Programme remains one of the most effective routes to success. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply, even for those whose scores fall below the usual general draw thresholds.

THE PATH TO SUCCESS

Simply put, the Express Entry system demands strategy and preparation. Excellence in language skills, especially English and where possible, French, advanced education such as a master’s degree, and experience in in-demand occupations such as healthcare or STEM are essential. Proof of funds and ideally a provincial nomination can further improve one’s prospects. For international applicants, especially couples or highly educated individuals without Canadian experience, the goal should be to exceed 500 CRS points to stand a realistic chance of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

It is best to consult directly with an immigration lawyer who can assist you with the preparation of the application or advise you of the best strategy, based on the particulars of your case.

Deidre Powell is a lawyer, mediator and notary public in Canada. You may contact her via WhatsApp or calling 613-695-8777. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more information.