Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry Canada

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying, ensure that you meet the basic requirements under one of the following Express Entry programs:

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

To check your eligibility, you’ll need to consider factors such as:

  • Age (Younger applicants get more points)
  • Education (Foreign credentials may require an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA))
  • Work Experience (Must be in an eligible NOC category)
  • Language Proficiency (IELTS/CELPIP for English, TEF/TCF for French)
  • Job Offer (if applicable)
  • Adaptability Factors (relatives in Canada, Canadian education, etc.)

👉 Use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Calculator on the IRCC website to estimate your CRS score.

Step 2: Obtain Required Documents

Before creating your Express Entry profile, you’ll need:
✔ Passport
✔ Language Test Results (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF/TCF)
✔ Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report (if you studied outside Canada)
✔ Proof of Work Experience (Reference letters, pay stubs, etc.)
✔ Provincial Nomination (if applicable)

Step 3: Create a MyCIC (GCKey) Account

  1. Go to the IRCC website and click on Sign in to your account.
  2. Choose GCKey or Sign-In Partner (banking credentials).
  3. Follow the prompts to register your account and set up security questions.

👉 Note: This MyCIC account will be used throughout the entire immigration process.

Step 4: Create & Submit an Express Entry Profile

  1. Log into MyCIC.
  2. Click Express Entry and choose Create a Profile.
  3. Answer questions about your:
    • Personal details
    • Education
    • Work experience
    • Language test results
    • Family members
    • Job offer (if any)
    • Provincial nomination (if any)
  4. Submit your profile and get entered into the Express Entry pool.

👉 Your profile remains active for 12 months. You can update information if your circumstances change.

Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

  • Every two weeks, IRCC conducts Express Entry draws.
  • If your CRS score is above the cut-off, you receive an ITA via your MyCIC account.
  • You have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application.

Step 6: Gather Supporting Documents After Receiving ITA

Once you receive an ITA, prepare the following:

Identity & Civil Status Documents

✔ Passport (all pages with stamps/visas)
✔ Birth certificate
✔ Marriage/divorce certificate (if applicable)

Proof of Work Experience

✔ Reference letters from employers (on company letterhead)
✔ Pay slips, tax documents, employment contracts

Proof of Funds (if applicable)

✔ Bank statements (last 6 months)
✔ Fixed deposits, mutual funds, or other proof of liquid assets

Medical Exam

✔ Schedule an Upfront Medical Exam with an IRCC-approved physician.

Police Clearance Certificates

✔ Required for all countries where you’ve lived for 6+ months since age 18.

Step 7: Submit the Permanent Residence Application

  1. Log into MyCIC and go to your ITA message.
  2. Upload all required documents.
  3. Pay the required fees.
  4. Submit your complete application before the 60-day deadline.

Step 8: Biometrics & Background Checks

  • After submission, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).
  • Schedule a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
  • IRCC will conduct background checks, verifying employment history, criminal records, and medical results.

Step 9: Receive Passport Request & COPR

  • If your application is approved, IRCC will send a Passport Request (PPR).
  • Send your passport to a Visa Office for visa stamping.
  • You’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document.

Step 10: Land in Canada & Become a PR

  1. Travel to Canada before your visa expires.
  2. Meet with a border officer and provide your COPR & Proof of Funds.
  3. Receive your Permanent Resident (PR) Card in the mail within a few months.

🎉 Welcome to Canada as a Permanent Resident! 🎉

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