Last Updated On 30 November 2022, 6:36 PM EST (Toronto Time)
Express Entry (EE) is one of the most popular and fastest ways to get a permanent residency(PR) in Canada. The program allows skilled immigrants to live and work in Canada.
What is Express Entry System?
Express Entry is an electronic online system and process of obtaining PR in Canada. It is a system that is used to manage skilled worker applicants who want to get a PR in Canada. EE is not an immigration program in and of itself. However, this system manages applications submitted through different immigration programs.
What are Different Programs Under Express Entry System?
The EE system applies to one of these Canadian economic immigration programs:
- the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – Click here to know more about FSWP
- the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – Click here to know more about CEC
- the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – Click here to know more about FSTP
- a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Click here to know more about PNP
- You may also like:
- Canada Express Entry – Know About New Changes In Bill C-19!
- 3 PNP Programs For Express Entry Without A Job Offer
- Express Entry-Know 6 Ways to Increase Your CRS Score!
- Understanding A Valid Job Offer For Canada Express Entry!
What is an Express Entry Profile?
Applicants have to make an expression of interest (EOI) in coming to Canada by creating an online Express Entry profile. You need to provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, etc.
Also, you have to provide some personal information in this profile. Moreover, this profile is self-declared. So, any information you provide is based on your assessment.
Is Language Test Mandatory under EE?
You have to take an English/French language proficiency test to be eligible under EE. The common tests for English are IELTS and CELPIP. TEF is common for French language. Also, you can take both English and French language tests to improve your score. Most language tests results are valid only for two years.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): CLB/NCLC level 7.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): CLB/NCLC level 7 for NOC O and A. CLB/NCLC 5 level for NOC B.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): CLB/NCLC level 5 in speaking and listening + CLB/NCLC level 4 in reading and writing.
Click here for CLB and NCLC language equivalency chart.
What is Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)?
CRS is the government’s internal mechanism for ranking candidates. It is based on the human capital, determined by factors like age, level of education and language ability. Under this system there are points allotted to applicants based on these factors. These points are your CRS score, that determine if you get an invitation to apply or not.
How much funds are required?
There are no funds required if you are applying under Candian Experience Class. However, proof of funds are required for Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program as mentioned below. Learn here how to calculate proof of funds.
| Number of family members | Funds required (in Canadian dollars) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $13,310 |
| 2 | $16,570 |
| 3 | $20,371 |
| 4 | $24,733 |
| 5 | $28,052 |
| 6 | $31,638 |
| 7 | $35,224 |
| For each additional family member | $3,586 |
Express Entry Proof of Funds
What is a National Occupational Classification Code (NOC)?
Canada has broken down all possible occupations into a large database of codes called NOC codes. These codes help to organize and understand occupations in Canada. Express Entry targets skilled workers.
So, NOC codes are used to determine the skill level of a candidate’s work experience. Only work experience at NOC Skill Levels 0, A, and B, qualifies as skilled work.
How Long is the EE Profile Valid for?
Express entry profiles are valid for 12 month or until you receive an ITA. After 12 months, you can create a new profile. Also, once you receive an ITA your profile gets locked. As long as your profile is active you can edit the information.
What is the Processing Time for Express Entry Application?
Once you enter an EE pool, you have to wait to get an ITA. After you receive an ITA, you have to submit the documents. These are those for which you claimed points in the EE profile.
The processing of your application starts only after complete documents are submitted. Also, you have to pay the fees. The ideal time to process applications is usually six months. However, depending upon your profile and processing office this period may vary.
What Is The Current Processing Time for programs under Express Entry?
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 13 months
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSWP): 26 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): 47 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via express entry: 18 months
- New Targeted Express Entry Draws: List Of Eligible NOC Codes
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced full list of occupations eligible for new targeted Express Entry draws for 2023.
To be eligible for one of the targeted Express Entry draws, candidates must have at least 6 months of continuous work experience (in Canada or abroad) during the last 3 years, in any of the occupation listed below.
New Targeted Express Entry Draws List Of Eligible NOC Codes
These targeted occupations are much in line with expectations posted by INC – Immigration News Canada.
Do I just need 6 months of experience to be eligible for the new Express Entry targeted draws?
No, you must have at least one year (30 x 52 weeks = 1560 hours) of work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations to be eligible for any Express Entry program.
If you worked in any of the 82 targeted occupations for at least 6 months in the last three years, then you would qualify to be considered in one of the targeted Express Entry round of invitations.Healthcare Occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Audiologists and speech language pathologists 31112 Chiropractors 31201 Dentists 31110 Dieticians and nutritionists 31121 Education counsellors 41320 General practitioners and family physicians 31102 Instructors of persons with disabilities 42203 Kinesiologists and other professional occupation in therapy and assessment 31204 Licensed practical nurses 32101 Massage therapists 32201 Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations 33101 Medical laboratory technologists 32120 Medical radiation technologists 32121 Medical sonographers 32122 Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates 33102 Nurse practitioners 31302 Nursing co-ordinators and supervisors 31300 Occupational therapists 31203 Optometrists 31111 Other assisting occupations in support of health services 33109 Other practitioners of natural healing 32209 Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating 31209 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment 32109 Paramedical occupations 32102 Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants 33103 Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303 Physiotherapists 31202 Psychologists 31200 Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103 Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100 Specialists in surgery 31101 Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies 41301 Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists 32200 Veterinarians 31103 Healthcare occupations Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC Code Architects 21200 Architecture and science managers 20011 Business systems specialists 21221 Civil Engineers 21300 Computer and information systems managers 20012 Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) 21311 Computer systems developers and programmers 21230 Cybersecurity specialists 21220 Data scientists 21211 Database analysts and data administrators 21223 Electrical and electronics engineers 21310 Engineering managers 20010 Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 Information systems specialists 21222 Land surveyors 21203 Landscape Architects 21201 Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries 21210 Metallurgical and materials engineers 21322 Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers 41400 Software developers and programmers 21232 Software engineers and designers 21231 Urban and land use planners 21202 Web designers 21233 Web developers and programmers 21234 STEM Occupations List Trade occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Residential and commercial installers and servicers 73200 Elevator constructors and mechanics 72406 Machine fitters 72405 Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics 72402 Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics 72400 Carpenters 72310 Plumbers 72300 Electricians (except industrial and power system) 72200 Welders and related machine operators 72106 Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers 72014 Trade occupations Transport occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors 93200 Transport truck drivers 73300 Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators 72604 Engineer officers, water transport 72603 Deck officers, water transport 72602 Air traffic controllers and related occupations 72601 Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors 72600 Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors 72404 Railway carmen/women 72403 Managers in transportation 70020 Transport occupations Agriculture and agri-food occupations
Occupations 2021 NOC Code Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services 82031 Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors 82030 Butchers- retail and wholesale 63201 Agriculture and agri-food occupations How would CRS score be affected by targeted Express Entry draws?
It is expected that CRS cutoff score will drop for the Express Entry profiles having experience in one of the targeted occupations/NOC codes.
However, CRS cutoff score will increase for profiles not included in targeted occupations/NOC codes.
- New Express Entry Exemptions For Doctors Seeking Canada PR
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser signed temporary public policy to ease the requirement for permanent residency under Express Entry Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Worker Program.
New exemptions came in effect on April 25, 2023 and will be in effect indefinitely until revoked by immigration minister.
These exemptions are to ease permanent residency pathway for foreign national physicians who provides publicly-funded medical services in Canada.
There are now exemptions for certain job offer and work experience criteria to facilitate the eligibility of self-employed foreign national physicians (such as those working in a fee-for-service model) for the Express Entry system.
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New exemptions applies to both Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
These exemptions will allow more foreign national physicians to qualify for Express Entry and earn them more CRS points.
Why These Exemptions For Physicians?
To qualify for arranged employment points for Express Entry, an offer of employment must normally be for continuous work in Canada for at least one year following the date on which a permanent residence visa is issued.
Some physicians, however, may not obtain these points because they do not match this condition. This is because the nature of the work arrangements is such that the offer of employment does not require that the job be continuous or for at least a year.
In certain situations, this implies they may be disqualified for the program and hence unable to satisfy the minimal requirements to enter the Express Entry pool.
Furthermore, many physicians in Canada work as independent contractors, providing publicly financed medical services such as those reimbursed by provincial/territorial public health authorities under a fee-for-service or other contractual service arrangement.
As a result, these physicians’ work is deemed self-employed and self-employment is ineligible for Express Entry system.
With new exemptions, qualified physicians will have a better chance of meeting the FSWP and CEC eligibility standards and entering the Express Entry pool.
Furthermore, by making pertinent and complementary revisions to the Express Entry Ministerial Instructions, foreign national physicians will have a better chance of securing an Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence.
This temporary policy is aimed at increasing the number of permanent physicians in Canada because of ongoing shortage in healthcare.
What are the new exemptions for physicians for Express Entry?
The 5 occupations (listed below) of physicians are exempted from job offer requirement and ineligibility of self-employed applicants for Express Entry.
They will no longer need to demonstrate that the agreed arranged job offer must be ongoing and last for at least a year after the date a permanent residence visa is issued.
However, this job offer must be made by a province or territorial government, a government entity, a government-appointed body, or a healthcare provider organization delivering publicly financed medical services.
Furthermore, they can claim points for work experience as a self-employed (independent contractor) for any work done under the below listed occupations.
Normally, self-employed experience is not eligible for Express Entry.
List of Occupations/NOCs Eligible For Exemption
NOC 2021 NOC 2016 counterparts Specialist in clinical and laboratory medicine – NOC 31100
Specialist in surgery – NOC 31101
General practitioner and family physician – NOC 31102Specialist physician – NOC 3111
General practitioner – NOC 3112What are the Physician occupations/NOCs Eligible For Exemption in Express Entry?
NOC 2021
Specialist in clinical and laboratory medicine – NOC 31100
Specialist in surgery – NOC 31101
General practitioner and family physician – NOC 31102
NOC 2016
Specialist physician – NOC 3111
General practitioner – NOC 3112What are new exemptions for physicians under Canada Express Entry?
Foreign trained physicians are now eligible to claim CRS points for work experience earned as a self-employed or independent contractors in Canada.
Physicians in Canada will no longer need to prove that the agreed-upon employment must be ongoing and last for at least a year after the date a permanent residence visa is issued.
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com - New Express Entry Funds Requirement For 2023
IRCC has changed the Express Entry funds requirement for 2023 without announcing it publicly, probably due to strike as employees were not working.
However, IRCC has updated their official questionnaire required to determine eligibility for Express Entry after logging in GCKey.
Last year, proof of funds came in effect on June 9, 2022 and IRCC gave existing profiles until June 27, 2022 to update their profiles in accordance with new fund requirements.
New proof of funds requirement is effective April 25, 2023 as updated on the IRCC official website now.
INC – Immigration News Canada recommends our readers to update their profile in accordance with new funds requirement if they have not received an invitation to apply (ITA) so far.
Profiles who already submitted their documents after receiving an ITA should not need to update the proof of funds.
Learn about
Who Need Proof of Funds?
Express Entry funds is the amount of money that an applicant is required to have to settle in Canada.
For the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), proof of funds are mandatory.
However, if applicant is has work authorization for Canada and have a legitimate job offer, then they do not require proof of funds for FSWP and FSTP.
Express Entry Canadian Experience Class (CEC) do no require any proof of funds.
Settlement Funds Calculation
The amount of the settlement funds for Express Entry depends on how many people are in the applicant’s family. The family must include:
- Applicant
- Spouse or partner of applicant
- Dependent children and
- Spouse’s dependent children
The spouse or dependent children must be included while calculating settlement funds even if:
the spouse or dependent children are permanent residents/Canadian citizens or are not accompanying the applicant to Canada.
New Express Entry Funds Requirement 2023
To confirm the fact, we tried creating a new Express Entry profile in the GCKey and below are the options that you get to select from drop down.
Number of
family membersNew Funds Required
(in Canadian dollars)
2023Old Funds required
(in Canadian dollars)1 $13,757 $13,310 2 $17,127 $16,570 3 $21,055 $20,371 4 $25,564 $24,733 5 $28,994 $28,052 6 $32,700 $31,638 7 $36,407 $35,224 For each additional family member $3,706 $3,586 Express Entry: Acceptable Proof Of Funds
According to the IRCC website, acceptable proof of funds must be in the form of official letters from any banks or financial institutions.
It must also be printed on the letterhead of the financial institution. It should also contain:
- their contact information (address, telephone number and email address)
- Applicants name
- list of outstanding debts such as credit card debts and loans
- for each current bank and investment account, the
- account numbers
- date each account was opened
- current balance of each account
- average balance for the past 6 months
What is the new funds requirement for Express Entry in 2023?
The amount of the Express Entry settlement funds is determined by the number of persons in the applicant’s family (including the applicant).
Below is the breakdown of funds required based on family size.
1 – $13757
2 – $17127
3 – $21055
4 – $25564
5 – $28994
6 – $32700
7 – $36407
Additional family member: $3,706Do you need proof of funds for Express Entry profile?
Proof of funding is required for the Express Entry Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), but not forCanadian Experience Class (CEC).
However, if an applicant has work authorization in Canada and a legitimate job offer, they do not need to provide proof of funds for FSWP or FSTP too.
- A Valid Job Offer For Express Entry – Know Full Requirements
Frequently, it can be confusing what constitutes a valid job offer for Express Entry. While most jobs require an LMIA, it also has several specific conditions for employers and employees.
However, having a valid job offer for Express Entry can help you gain more CRS points and increase your chance of receiving an ITA.
If you want to claim points with a job offer for Express Entry, then this article will help you understand the exact requirements.
Learn Below About
Job Offer For Express Entry Canadian Experience Class & Federal Skilled Workers
If you are applying under, either the Canadian Experience Class or the Federal Skilled Worker program, your job offer must meet the following requirements:
For a job offer to be valid, it has to be:
- Offered by one employer
- Be continuous
- Paid
- Should be full-time or at least 30 hours per week
- Not be seasonal employment.
- It should last at least one year after you get your permanent resident visa
- The position should be:
- in Skill Type TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (NOC 0, A or B)
Other requirements include the following:
- An employer must make the job offer with a new positive LMIA that approves your offer and includes your name and position; Or
- You must be working in Canada in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (NOC 0, A or B) job on a valid LMIA-based work permit; and you must be:
- Working for an employer mentioned on your work permit
- Authorized to work in Canada when you apply for your permanent resident visa and receive it
- Offered a full-time job by your current employer for at least one year if you are accepted as a permanent resident; Or
- You must have a valid LMIA-exempt work permit for a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (NOC 0, A, or B) job; and you:
- must be currently working for the specific employer mentioned on the work permit
- Have one year of full-time work experience or equivalent part-time experience for the same employer
- Should have a valid job offer from the same employer for at least one year after you receive your permanent resident visa.
Job Offer Requirements For Federal Skilled Trades workers
If you plan to apply under the Federal Skilled Trades workers stream, for your job offer to be valid, it should meet the following requirements:
- Up to two employers could make a job offer.
- Should be continuous, paid, full-time or at least 30 hours a week
- Be for at least one year.
- Could be in skilled trade occupation, which includes jobs with 2016 NOC codes beginning with 72, 73, 82, 92, as well as 632 and 633
Other requirements include the following:
- The job offer should be made by employers who have a new positive LMIA, which approves the offer and names you and your position; Or
- You must be currently working in Canada on an LMIA-approved work permit in a skilled trade job, and you must be:
- Working for an employer mentioned on your work permit
- Authorized to work in Canada when you apply for your permanent resident visa and receive it
- If you are accepted as a permanent resident, your current employer(s) must offer you a full-time position in the same three-digit level of the NOC as your current work for at least one year OR
- You hold a valid work permit for one of the following skilled trade occupations that do not require an LMIA, and you:
- Are currently employed by an employer named on the work permit
- Must have one year of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time employment) for the employer(s) on your work permit making the offer
- Have a valid job offer from the same employer for at least one year after you get your permanent residence visa.
Valid and invalid job offer examples
In both cases, the LMIA either supports the job offer or is exempt from the requirement for an LMIA.
Example 1: Two businesses hire a heavy equipment operator. The LMIA includes both employers. Each employer offers 16 hours of work each week for a minimum of one year. This job offer is valid.
Example 2: A construction company hires a plumber for 25 hours per week on a non-contractual basis.
This job offer is not valid. It is because the job must be for at least 30hrs per week to be considered full-time.
Jobs that do not require an LMIA
There are only two reasons why the employer that made you the offer does not need a new LMIA:
- If you are already working for an employer on an LMIA-based work permit; Or
- Your job does not require an LMIA.
If your employer needs to get a new LMIA, if:
- Your work permit expired
- You are working on an open work permit
- The job offer you have is from an employer who is not listed on your work permit .
How to update your Express Entry profile with a new job offer?
If you received a new job offer or realize your offer is valid, ensure that you update your Express Entry profile with the following information:
Employer details such as name and address
LMIA number, if applicable
NOC associated with the job
Your start dateWhat your job offer for Express Entry must include?
Your job offer for Express Entry must be:
1. A recent or new job offer that is less than a year old
2. The job offer should be in writing.
3. It should not be from an embassy, consulate or high commission in Canada.
4. Include details about the position, such as Job Duties, Pay, and deductions, Hours of work, as well as conditions of employmentSource: IRCC
- Know How Targeted Express Entry Draws Will Affect You
Since we all know that the targeted Express Entry draws are projected to start this year and an official announcement is already due, in accordance with BillC19.
The IRCC feedback process on the new proposed categories of Express Entry ended on January 8, 2023.
These 4 proposed categories criteria has almost provided clarity on what we can expect from the targeted draws.
This could also be one of the reasons that IRCC has not conducted any Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw so far.
You can read details on New Express Entry Targeted Draw Categories here.
In this article, we delve into how these new targeted draws will affect Express Entry applicants.
Express Entry Candidates With Certain Occupations/NOCs Will Benefit The Most
IRCC consultation in first proposed category clearly stated selection based on work experience in specific occupation or sectors with significant labor shortages.
This proposed category listed below occupations as the most invited between 2019 and 2021.
- food service supervisors
- administrative assistants
- financial auditors and accountants
- retail sales supervisors
- software engineers and designers
- professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
- cooks
- computer programmers and interactive media developers
- information systems analysts and consultants
- user support technicians
- restaurant and food service managers
- administrative officers
Based on these, we can say that Express Entry candidates with experience in similar high demand occupations can get invitation at low CRS score in a targeted draw.
So FSW and CEC candidates in the pool with experience in key occupations may have a chance with even lower score.
This could be similar to recently introduced Manitoba PNP occupation-specific draws, but for all programs.
Better Opportunity For International Students and Work Permit Holders in Key Sectors
Canada has always been working on retaining international talent and filling labour gaps, in competition with other G7 countries.
IRCC has consistently stated that one of its top goals is to assist overseas graduates in obtaining PR status.
Graduates with a degree or diploma in in-demand fields, from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) could be targeted in the new selections.
We can confidently predict that graduates with education and job experience in the main targeted areas will have the best probability of obtaining an ITA for international students.
Future Of Express Entry No Program Specified Draws
The good news is that IRCC has said unequivocally that targeted drawings will constitute a part of overall invitations to apply.
They also announced that regular Express Entry rounds of invitations based on Comprehensive Ranking System scores and particular programmes will continue.
With IRCC confirming that “No Program Specified” draws will continue, we can assume that CRS cut off may go higher in such draws.
Candidates planning on applying or already in the pool waiting for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) should continue to work on increasing their CRS score or look for provincial nomination.
Another good thing is that we can see more of the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) draw similar to the one we saw in February 2023.
Francophiles Will Continue To Have Best Shot At Express Entry
IRCC consultation clearly stated new targeted Express Entry draws will focus on two factors:
- Addressing chronic labour shortages and long-term planning; and
- Fostering Francophone immigration and economic growth in Francophone minority communities.
Express Entry and Canadian Immigration has been making appropriate efforts to boost francophiles in Canada.
Even new Canadian budget proposes $123 million to promote francophone immigration.
Furthermore, french-speaking candidates can claim 50 points extra being bilingual.
As per one of the proposed category, we can see targeted Express Entry draws exclusively for Francophiles.
Bilinguals even get more job opportunity after settling in Canada, so learning French has all around benefit for the Express Entry candidates in the pool.
Conclusion
Express Entry has been tough with high CRS score cutoff, lately. However, it is expected to become easier for candidates with experience or study in high demand sectors with low CRS scores.
Similarly, it will become even more competitive for some candidates not fitting the targeted draw categories, but they will still have the chance of receiving an ITA.
As of now nothing is officially confirmed, but our advise is to start working on improving your Express Entry CRS score.
Explore your Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) options, learn French, retake English proficiency test (IELTS/CELPIP).
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com - New Express Entry Draw Declares CRS Cutoff At 481
Today, new IRCC Express Entry draw issues 7,000 invitations to apply (ITA) for Canada permanent residency (PR), to applicants having a CRS score of 481 or above.
Express Entry draws are usually held bi-weekly, but today’s draw is the third back-to-back weekly round of invitations.
Details of the IRCC Express Entry draw today
- Date and time of round: March 29, 2023 13:44:01 UTC
- No Program Specified
- Number of invitations issued: 7,000
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 7,000 or above
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 481
- Tie-breaking rule: February 14, 2023 07:35:00 UTC
Just FYI, we now have a dedicated online Express Entry page which is updated as soon as the draw is out. Click here to visit our Express Entry page.
A total of 21,000 invitations to apply have been issued in last 3 consecutive weeks and CRS cut off score has dropped all the way from 490 to 481.
This is the lowest cutoff score since the beginning of “no program specified” draws post pandemic.
However, this could just be the “good days” prior to starting of new “targeted Express Entry draws” this year.
Next Express Entry Draw Prediction
Our CRS cut off score prediction last week just missed by 1 point. We predicted today’s cutoff at 480, but it came at 481.
This prediction is based on our analysis of CRS score distribution in the pool on the draw day and anticipation of new profiles until then.
Similarly, our next draw predication sees the cut off score to be around 476-478 for no program specified draws (if draw is held next week).
If no program specified draw is held after two weeks now, then the cut off is expected to be around 480.
The CRS score distribution of applicants in the Express Entry pool as of March 29, 2023 is shown below.
March 29 CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool
Click here for all the previous Express Entry draws.
Official IRCC processing times for Express Entry – March 23, 2023.
- Canadian Experience Class – 12 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program – 30 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program – 70 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry – 11 months
- Latest Express Entry Draw Issues 7,000 Invitations For All Programs
Today, IRCC Express Entry Draw issues again a record 7,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) in a surprise round of invitations for all the categories.
The Cutoff score drops by 6 points to 484 in the “no program specified” Express Entry draw today.
Full details of the Express Entry draw today:
- Date and time of round: March 23,2023 12:27:59 UTC
- Immigration Program: No Program Specified
- Number of invitations issued: 7,000
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 7,000 or above
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 484
- Tie-breaking rule: May 19,2022 06:48:41 UTC
IRCC will complete the process of sending out all the invitations by end of the day tomorrow, March 24, 2023.
“No program specified” Express Entry draws consider all the Express Entry profiles from the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Moreover, profiles with a provincial nomination are eligible for this all program draw.
Today’s cut off is just in alignment with our last week’s prediction as per the analysis based on CRS score distribution in the Express Entry pool.
The next draw is predicted to declare a cut off score of roughly around 480 for no program draws and 671 for PNP only draws.
After the first quarter of 2023, the IRCC will be beginning targeted Express Entry draws with new proposed categories. Learn more here.
Below is the CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 22, 2023.
CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 22, 2023
Latest Express Entry processing times as of March 23
Below are the official IRCC processing times for Express Entry as of March 23, 2023.
- Canadian Experience Class – 12 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program – 30 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program – 70 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry – 11 months
- New Express Entry Draw Sent Record 7,000 PR Invites
Today, IRCC sent out record 7,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) through the new “no program specified” Express Entry Draw.
This is the largest all program Express Entry draw ever.
The Express Entry profiles with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 490 or above received the invitations.
The information about today’s Express Entry draw is as follows:
- No Program Specified
- Number of invitations issued: 7,000
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 7,000 or above
- Date and time of round: March 15, 2023 17:08:16 UTC
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 490
- Tie-breaking rule: February 16, 2023 10:33:06 UTC
All Express Entry profiles from the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) are eligible for the no program specified Express Entry draws.
Furthermore, profiles having a provincial nomination are also eligible for no program specified draw.
The next draw is expected to declare a cut off score around 485 for no program draw and 671 for PNP only draw, based on the CRS score distribution of applicants in the Express Entry pool as of March 15, 2023.
The IRCC will start holding targeted Express Entry draws with new suggested categories after the first quarter of 2023. Know details here.
The table below displays the full CRS score distribution of all candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 15, 2023.
CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 15, 2023
#image_title Latest Express Entry processing times as of March 14
As of March 14, Express Entry processing times increased for all the three categories as listed below:
- Canadian Experience Class – 12 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program – 30 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program – 70 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry – 11 months
What is Canada Express Entry System?
The easiest and fastest method to acquire Canadian PR is through the Express Entry procedure.
After accepting the invitation to apply (ITA) and uploading the required documents, the processing time is typically 6 months.
The Express Entry system rates candidate profiles using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based approach.
An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is sent to profiles whose scores exceed the CRS cutoff in a draw. And the invited candidates then submit an application for permanent residency.
Applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program are managed via the Express Entry system (FSTP).
Candidates in the Express Entry pool who have a provincial nomination and a profile in one of the aforementioned programs get 600 additional points.
- Express Entry: IRCC Has 65% More Staff Than Is Required
A new report by the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) on March 7 revealed analysis of IRCC’s Express Entry system.
This report estimates the costs of the Federal Skilled Workers Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Moreover, it also provided projections on IRCC staffing and meeting Express Entry processing standards to meet targets until 2027
Furthermore, the cost includes the gross spend on processing, pre-arrival services, and settlement services on these 3 programs.
According to the report, $792 million will be spent over the following five years to meet the target under Express Entry system.
Moreover, this cost will be offset by $743 million in application fee revenue. As a result, there will be a net total cost of $48 million on government.
In 2022-23, the net cost per accepted Permanent Resident is expected to be $91.
Express Entry Processing
IRCC has objective to process 80% of the Express Entry applications within 6 months of submission.
The PBO says that existing staffing levels at IRCC will be more than adequate to fulfil the processing time objective for the next 5 years.
Additionally, they estimate that IRCC has 65% more workers than is required to process Express Entry target in 2023.
As the number of applications grows, this percentage will decrease year by year, eventually reaching 4% in 2026-27.
Although, report highlights that IRCC has 65% more staff, but still Express Entry processing times are way higher than service standards.
This is mostly due to quite a high number of applications from backlog as well as resumption of new draws.
Express Entry Projections Until 2027
The report highlighted that the government often exceeded its immigration objectives in the three EE streams, in past year.
However, because the objectives are higher for 2023-2025, the PBO expects the targeted immigration levels to be reached rather than exceeded.
Furthermore, the PBO estimates that Express Entry targets may increase 7% annually after 2025, equivalent to the annual growth rate between 2015 and 2025.
The report also highlights below listed points:
- In 2020, fewer PRs were accepted through EE due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Several persons who would have immigrated in 2020 instead came in 2021, resulting in increased admittance numbers in 2021.
- There were no draws for the three EE streams from September 2021 to July 2022. This enabled IRCC to address a backlog of applications that had accumulated during the pandemic’s early stages.
- The immigration objectives for the EE streams in 2022 were met before the end of the year. This is not likely to happen again in the foreseeable future.
Source: PBO Report
- Know How Job Offers Without LMIA Work For Express Entry
While most employers need a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to support your job offer for Express Entry, some jobs are LMIA-exempt.
However, LMIA-exempt job offers may not be as common as they have specific conditions and requirements.
Getting an LMIA-exempt job offer depends on the type of work you do and your employer.
Learn below when your employer does not require an LMIA and about the jobs that are LMIA-exempt.
Situations when your employer does not need an LMIA
If you meet the following requirements, your employer does not need an LMIA to support your job offer:
- You must have worked for an employer mentioned on your work permit for at least one year or have accumulated equivalent part-time experience.
- Have a valid job offer, and
- A valid work permit which is exempt from an LMIA under:
- International agreement
- Federal-provincial agreement
- “Canadian interests” category
If you meet the above requirements, you may be exempt from needing an LMIA under the below categories.
LMIA-Exempt Jobs
You may be excluded from needing an LMIA for Express Entry if your current temporary work is LMIA-exempt, mentions a specific employer or employers (for skilled trade jobs, up to two employers can make a job offer), and is:
- Part of an international agreement, such as CUSMA or GATS, and non-trade agreements. It can include professionals, traders and investors.
- It is an agreement between Canada and a province or territory, including “significant investment” projects.
- Exempt for “Canadian interests” for the following reasons:
- Providing “significant benefit“-if your employer can demonstrate that you will provide significant social, cultural, and economic benefit to Canada. This could include:
- General: such as self-employed engineers, technical workers, creative and performing artists, etc
- Workers transferred within a company, such as intra-company transferees with specialized knowledge – only those whose talents and experience will help Canada.
- Workers who are under Mobilité francophone
- Having Reciprocal employment- it allows foreign workers to get jobs in Canada while Canadians have similar opportunities in other countries
- The general category includes professional coaches and athletes working for Canadian teams.
- International Experience Canada – it is a work-abroad program for young professionals
- Individuals part of exchange programs such as visiting lecturers and professors
- Minister designated
- These include academic researchers, guest lecturers and visiting professors sponsored by a recognized federal program.
- Competitiveness and public policy
- fellows and medical residents
- Post-doctoral fellows and those who won academic awards from Canadian schools
- Religious and charity workers, excluding volunteers
- Providing “significant benefit“-if your employer can demonstrate that you will provide significant social, cultural, and economic benefit to Canada. This could include:
It is important to note that even though these jobs are exempt from LMIA, you still need a valid work permit. In addition, you must also meet the initial requirements that exempt employers from getting you an LMIA
Source: IRCC
- New Express Entry Draw Today Invites 667 PNP Profiles
Express Entry Draw today issued 667 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR), targeting the profiles having a provincial nomination.
Invitations were sent to Express Entry profiles with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 748 or above.
This means Express Entry profiles having just the score of 148 + 600 points from provincial nomination were invited in this draw.
The CRS cut off score has reduced by only 43 points as compared to February 15 Express Entry PNP draw.
Below are the details of Express Entry draw announced today:
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Number of invitations issued: 667
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 667 or above
- Date and time of round: March 01, 2023, at 17:24:39 UTC
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 748
- Tie-breaking rule: December 12, 2022, at 10:48:12 UTC
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Express Entry draws include all Express Entry profiles from the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) with an approved nomination from one of the Canadian provinces.
According to the CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 1, 2023, the next draw is expected to be no program specified or FSW or CEC targeted draw.
Reason is because only 606 profiles have a CRS score of 601-1200. Furthermore, there are only 2,129 profiles having a CRS score between 501-600.
We hope that this next draw comes later today or tomorrow similar to the FSW draw announced on February 2 after the PNP draw on February 1.
After the first quarter of 2023, the IRCC may begin conducting targeted Express Entry draws with new proposed categories.
Full CRS score distribution of applicants in the Express Entry pool as of March 1, 2023 is shown below.
CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of March 1, 2023
Latest processing time for Express Entry as of February 28
As of February 28, Express Entry processing times increased for all the three categories as listed below:
- Canadian Experience Class – 16 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program – 31 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program – 70 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry – 11 months
Canada Express Entry Draws
Date Immigration program Invitations issued CRS Score Cut-Off February 15, 2023 Provincial Nominee Program 699 791 February 2, 2023 Federal Skilled Worker 3,300 489 February 1, 2023 Provincial Nominee Program 893 733 January 18, 2023 No Program Specified 5,500 490 January 11, 2023 No Program Specified 5,500 507 November 23, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 491 November 9, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 494 October 26, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 496 October 12, 2022 No Program Specified 4,250 500 September 28, 2022 No Program Specified 3,750 504 September 14, 2022 No Program Specified 3,250 510 August 31, 2022 No Program Specified 2,750 516 August 17, 2022 No Program Specified 2,250 525 August 3, 2022 No Program Specified 2,000 533 July 20, 2022 No Program Specified 1,750 542 July 6, 2022 No Program Specified 1,500 557 June 22, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 636 752 June 8, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 932 796 May 25, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 590 741 May 11, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 545 753 April 27, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 829 772 April 13, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 787 782 March 30, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 919 785 March 16, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 924 754 March 2, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,047 761 February 16, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,082 710 February 2, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,070 674 What is Canada Express Entry System?
The Express Entry system is the quickest way to become a permanent resident (PR) of Canada.
It has a usual processing period of 6 months after accepting the invitation to apply (ITA) and submitting documents.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based system, is used to score applicant profiles in the Express Entry system.
Profiles with a score greater than the CRS cut off declared in a draw are sent an Invitation to Apply (ITA), which invites them to apply for permanent residency.
The Express Entry system manages applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Applicants in the Express Entry pool with profiles in one of the aforementioned programs and a provincial nomination receive 600 extra points.
Express Entry Frequently Asked Questions
Is TEER 3 Eligible For Express Entry system?
Yes, TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3 are eligible for Express Entry system.
- Latest Express Entry Draw 2023 Invites 699 New PNP Profiles
Today, Express Entry Draw sent 699 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) targeting profiles having a provincial nomination from one of the Canadian provinces.
Express Entry profiles having a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 791 or above received the invitations.
This is the second Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) only Express Entry draw in February 2023.
The specifics of today’s Express Entry draw are shown below.
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Number of invitations issued: 699
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 699 or above
- Date and time of round: February 15, 2023, at 16:13:27 UTC
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 791
- Tie-breaking rule: February 08, 2023, at 18:09:01 UTC
CRS Cut off score jumped by 58 points as compared to PNP only Express Entry draw on February 1, 2023.
Interesting thing to watch out is whether IRCC will hold another draw tomorrow or later this week? Will it be No program specified or Federal Skilled Workers or end of drought for Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?
IRCC may start conducting targeted Express Entry draws with new proposed categories after first quarter of 2023.
Below is the CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of February 15, 2023.
CRS score distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of February 15, 2023
Latest processing time for Express Entry as of February 15
As of February 15, Express Entry processing times increased for all the three categories as listed below:
- Canadian Experience Class – 16 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program – 31 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program – 70 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry – 11 months
Canada Express Entry Draws
Date Immigration program Invitations issued CRS Score Cut-Off February 2, 2023 Federal Skilled Worker 3,300 489 February 1, 2023 Provincial Nominee Program 893 733 January 18, 2023 No Program Specified 5,500 490 January 11, 2023 No Program Specified 5,500 507 November 23, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 491 November 9, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 494 October 26, 2022 No Program Specified 4,750 496 October 12, 2022 No Program Specified 4,250 500 September 28, 2022 No Program Specified 3,750 504 September 14, 2022 No Program Specified 3,250 510 August 31, 2022 No Program Specified 2,750 516 August 17, 2022 No Program Specified 2,250 525 August 3, 2022 No Program Specified 2,000 533 July 20, 2022 No Program Specified 1,750 542 July 6, 2022 No Program Specified 1,500 557 June 22, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 636 752 June 8, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 932 796 May 25, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 590 741 May 11, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 545 753 April 27, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 829 772 April 13, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 787 782 March 30, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 919 785 March 16, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 924 754 March 2, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,047 761 February 16, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,082 710 February 2, 2022 Provincial Nominee Program 1,070 674 What is Express Entry?
The fastest method to become a permanent resident (PR) of Canada is through the Express Entry system.
It has a processing time standard of 6 months following document submission in after accepting the invitation to apply (ITA).
Express Entry rates candidate profiles based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based algorithm.
The profiles having a score higher than the CRS cut off declared in a draw receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), inviting them to file a permanent residency application.
Express Entry system serves as the application management system for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Candidates in the Express Entry pool with profiles under one of the above mentioned program, having a provincial nomination get 600 extra points.