How to Submit a Profile for Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system, designed to expedite the process for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the country. With an efficient points-based system, candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can submit their profile to be considered for permanent residency. Here’s everything you need to know about how to submit a profile and what the process entails.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before diving into the submission process, it’s crucial to determine if you are eligible for one of the three immigration programs under Express Entry:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

You can assess your eligibility using Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. Candidates must score a minimum number of points to qualify for the pool of potential immigrants.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

The next step is to gather the necessary documents to support your profile submission. These include:

• Language test results (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French)
• Educational credentials assessment (ECA) for foreign qualifications
• Passport or travel document
• Proof of funds to show that you can support yourself and your family in Canada
• Job offer letter (if applicable)

Step 3: Create an Online Express Entry Profile

Once you’ve determined your eligibility and gathered the necessary documents, it’s time to create your Express Entry profile. Here’s how:

1. Visit the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
2. Register with your GCKey or sign in using a Sign-In Partner (like your online banking login).
3. Complete the required forms, providing accurate information about your:
   • Personal details (age, marital status, family members, etc.)
   • Work history and qualifications
   • Language test results and educational assessments
   • Adaptability factors, such as previous study or work in Canada.

Step 4: Receive Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

Once your profile is complete, the system will assign you a CRS score. This score will determine your ranking in the Express Entry pool. Factors influencing your CRS score include:

• Core human capital factors like age, education, and language proficiency
• Spouse or common-law partner factors (if applicable)
• Skills transferability factors
• Additional points for factors like a provincial nomination or a valid job offer in Canada.

Step 5: Enter the Express Entry Pool

Once your profile is submitted, you will enter the Express Entry pool of candidates. It’s important to note that your CRS score doesn’t guarantee an invitation. The Canadian government conducts draws at regular intervals to invite the top-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residence.

Step 6: Improve Your CRS Score (If Necessary)

If your initial CRS score is not high enough to receive an invitation, you can take steps to improve it, such as:

• Improving language test scores
• Gaining additional work experience
• Completing further education
• Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer
• Obtaining a provincial nomination, which can boost your CRS score by 600 points.

Step 7: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If you rank high enough in the pool, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. This is the moment where things become time-sensitive. You will have 60 days to submit your complete application, including the necessary supporting documents like medical exams and police certificates.

Step 8: Submit Your Application for Permanent Residence

Upon receiving an ITA, you must submit a complete application with all the required documents. This includes:

• Proof of work experience
• Medical examination results
• Police clearance certificates for any country you have lived in for more than six months
• Proof of funds, unless you already have a valid job offer in Canada

Step 9: Wait for a Decision

Once your application is submitted, the IRCC will review your case, and you’ll receive updates through your account. The decision-making process can take up to six months for a finalized outcome.

Step 10: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

If your application is successful, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). You can then complete the process by landing in Canada and starting your new life as a permanent resident.

Key Tips for Success:

1. Ensure Accuracy: Any misrepresentation in your profile can lead to disqualification or a ban from applying for several years.
2. Keep Documents Ready: Ensure that your documents are valid and updated before submitting your profile.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up with changes to Canada’s immigration policies, as Express Entry requirements and draws can fluctuate.

Submitting a profile for Express Entry is a detailed process that requires preparation and accuracy. Following these steps closely will ensure that you have the best chance of being selected to apply for permanent residence in Canada.