Step-by-Step Guide to Canada’s Express Entry Program

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1. Understand What Express Entry Is

Express Entry is an online immigration system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence under three major programs:

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

Reliant Tip: Not sure which stream fits your background? We’ll evaluate your profile and help you choose the strongest option.

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2. Check If You’re Eligible

To enter the Express Entry pool, you must meet the minimum criteria for one of the programs. Common requirements include:

• Age (under 45 scores better)

• Education (diploma, degree, or higher)

• Language proficiency (English and/or French – IELTS or CELPIP)

• Skilled work experience (at least 1 year, full-time)

• Proof of funds (unless applying under CEC or with a valid job offer)

You’ll also need:

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a recognized body

• Valid language test results

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3. Calculate Your CRS Score

Express Entry uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates based on:

• Age

• Education

• Language ability

• Work experience

• Canadian connections (education, work, or relatives)

• Job offers or provincial nominations

Maximum score: 1,200 points

Reliant Tip: We’ll calculate your CRS and show you ways to improve it—like retaking IELTS or getting a Provincial Nomination (PNP).

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4. Create and Submit Your Express Entry Profile

Once eligible, you’ll submit a profile to the Express Entry pool. You’ll need:

• Personal and family info

• Education and work history

• Language results

• Proof of funds

• Job offer (if applicable)

You won’t submit documents at this stage—just truthful details. Once submitted, you’ll be ranked with other candidates in the pool.

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5. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

IRCC holds draws every 2 weeks to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency. If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cutoff, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

You’ll have 60 days to submit your full application with documents after receiving an ITA.

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6. Submit Your PR Application After ITA

At this stage, you’ll need to upload:

• Passport & ID

• Police clearance certificates

• Medical exam results

• Proof of work experience

• Education credentials

• Proof of funds

• Photos & forms

We help ensure every document is correctly formatted, translated (if needed), and submitted before the deadline.

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7. Processing & Approval

After submission, your application is reviewed for:

• Eligibility and admissibility

• Background and security checks

• Medical and biometrics

Processing times vary but average around 3 months. If successful, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and your PR visa (if needed).

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8. Land in Canada as a Permanent Resident

Once approved, you’ll travel to Canada, meet with a border officer, and officially become a Canadian Permanent Resident!

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Boost Your Chances with These Express Entry Options

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🌎 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Each province has its own immigration streams. Getting a PNP nomination adds 600 points to your CRS—almost guaranteeing an ITA.

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🎓 Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

If you’ve worked or studied in Canada, this is your fast-track route. No proof of funds is needed.

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💼 Job Offer from a Canadian Employer

While not required, a valid job offer (especially with LMIA) gives bonus points and strengthens your profile.

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Why Choose Reliant Travel?

• CRS evaluation & profile optimization

• Complete Express Entry profile setup

• ECA, IELTS, and document guidance

• Provincial Nominee Program support

• Full PR application after ITA

• Interview and landing prep

We make Express Entry feel easy—because we handle the hard parts for you.

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Your Future in Canada Starts Here

Express Entry is your express lane to Canadian permanent residency. Don’t leave it to chance—let Reliant Travel guide you every step of the way.

📩 Book your consultation today and start building your future in Canada.