What is Canada Express Entry?

Canada Express Entry is a popular immigration system designed to streamline the process for skilled workers who wish to live and work in Canada. Introduced in 2015, it has become one of the most efficient and sought-after pathways for individuals looking to gain permanent residency in Canada. The system manages applications for three major federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Step-by-Step Guide to Canada Express Entry

1. Determine Eligibility: The first step in the Express Entry process is to determine if you are eligible for one of the three programs managed under Express Entry. This involves meeting specific criteria related to your age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors.
2. Create an Express Entry Profile: Once eligibility is confirmed, you must create an online Express Entry profile. This profile will include detailed information about your skills, work experience, language abilities, education, and other personal information. Based on this information, you will receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
3. Improve Your CRS Score: If your initial CRS score is below the cut-off for the current draws, you may take steps to improve it. This could include gaining additional work experience, improving your language test results, or obtaining a valid job offer or provincial nomination, which can significantly boost your score.
4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): The Canadian government conducts regular Express Entry draws, where they invite the highest-ranking candidates from the pool to apply for permanent residency. If you are among the top candidates, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
5. Submit Your Application for Permanent Residency: Once you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency. This application must include all necessary documents, such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
6. Final Decision and Visa Issuance: After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If everything is in order, you will receive a decision on your application, and if approved, you will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a visa.
7. Arrive in Canada: With your COPR and visa, you can make the move to Canada. Upon arrival, you will complete the landing process and officially become a permanent resident of Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Express Entry

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet the requirements of one of the three immigration programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
   • Minimum of one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience in a skilled occupation.
   • Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 or higher in English or French.
   • A Canadian educational credential or a foreign credential with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
   • Sufficient funds to support yourself and your family in Canada.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
   • At least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
   • A valid job offer of full-time employment for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
   • CLB of 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing.
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
   • Minimum of one year of skilled work experience in Canada, within the last three years.
   • CLB of 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs, or CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
   • No need to prove funds unless applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

How Afrivisa Solutions Assists in the Process

Navigating the Canada Express Entry system can be complex and challenging, but Afrivisa Solutions is here to guide you through every step of the process. Our experienced consultants offer comprehensive support tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that your application is as strong as possible.

1. Personalized Eligibility Assessment: We begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors to determine your eligibility for Express Entry. If you meet the criteria, we help you choose the most suitable program to maximize your chances of success.
2. Profile Creation and CRS Optimization: Our team assists you in creating a detailed and accurate Express Entry profile. We also provide strategic advice on how to improve your CRS score, such as enhancing your language skills, gaining additional work experience, or securing a job offer in Canada.
3. Comprehensive Document Preparation: Afrivisa Solutions ensures that all your documents are complete and correctly formatted, minimizing the risk of delays or rejections. We guide you through the process of obtaining necessary documents, such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
4. Application Submission and Follow-Up: After receiving your ITA, we assist in preparing and submitting your complete application for permanent residency. We monitor your application status and communicate with IRCC on your behalf, providing updates and addressing any issues that may arise.
5. Post-Approval Support: Once your application is approved, our support doesn’t end there. We offer guidance on the landing process, help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a permanent resident, and provide resources to assist with your settlement in Canada.

With Afrivisa Solutions by your side, you can navigate the Canada Express Entry system with confidence, knowing that you have a team of experts dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of living and working in Canada. Our commitment to personalized service and attention to detail ensures that your immigration journey is smooth and successful.