Express entry is an online pool system created by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage immigration applications from skilled workers.
Specifically, there are three programs under the Express Entry system,
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades program
Understanding Your Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS)
The most basic thing to understand about the Express Entry system is that it ranks individuals based on points. Points are assigned to individuals based on factors such as age, spouse factors, language testing scores, education level, completion of qualifying Canadian education, work experience (Canadian and Foreign), provincial nominations and if the candidate has blood relatives (brother or sister) with permanent resident status or Citizenship in Canada.Â
The points assigned are referred to as your ‘Comprehensive Ranking Score’ also known as ‘CRS’. The higher your CRS score in any category the higher your chances of being selected from the pool of candidates when draws take place for the categories you qualify for.
How to Improve Your Canadian Express Entry CRS Score
Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but you can qualify for more than one program, this means when draws take place you have a greater chance of selection because you have a greater chance of selection from two versus one program.Â
A common question is how to improve your CRS score. This can be done in a variety of ways but some of the most basic ones are: increasing your language testing scores or taking more than one language test (ex. English and French), increasing the amount of skilled work experience held, or education completed.Â
Strengthening Your Express Entry Chances
Other ways to improve a CRS score are a bit more complicated. One way is to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for the job you are in (or offered), this provides an additional 50 points for the CRS score calculation. Additionally, if you qualify for a Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) and receive the nomination, you are granted an additional 600 points. Â
Keeping Your Profile Current
Always ensure to keep your Express Entry Profile up to date so it reflects your current situation as best as possible. As you acquire more Canadian work experience, ensure that your profile reflects this information, as it will help you gain more points.Â
Expert Guidance for Express Entry in Canada
Understanding the Express Entry system can significantly improve your chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residency. By understanding how to get the most out of your CRS score, you can position yourself as a top candidate in the pool. With the right approach and persistence and the guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer like Jasmin Sandhu, your dream of settling in Canada can become a reality.