Express Entry Eligibility

Understanding the Express Entry eligibility criteria is the first and most important step for anyone considering immigration to Canada through this competitive selection system. This page offers a detailed breakdown of the qualifications required to enter the Express Entry pool and succeed in securing permanent residence under one of the three core federal programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades.

To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must first meet the minimum requirements of at least one of these three economic immigration programs. Each program has specific criteria based on factors such as skilled work experience, language proficiency in English or French, educational background, and adaptability. Our page outlines these distinctions clearly, helping applicants determine which stream is best suited for their profile.

For example, the Federal Skilled Worker program requires a minimum of one year of continuous full-time skilled work experience abroad, assessed against the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system. The Canadian Experience Class, on the other hand, is for candidates with qualifying Canadian work experience within the last three years. Meanwhile, the Federal Skilled Trades stream targets skilled tradespersons with work experience in eligible occupations, often requiring a job offer or certificate of qualification.

In addition to program-specific requirements, all Express Entry applicants are evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This points-based system considers age, education, work experience, language ability, and additional factors like a job offer or provincial nomination. On this page, we also explain how the CRS score is calculated and how your individual credentials affect your standing in the pool.

If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements or want to enhance your score, our consultants at RightWay Canada are here to help. Whether you’re preparing to submit your Express Entry profile or still evaluating your options, our team can help ensure your application meets the latest IRCC standards. To receive a personalized assessment of your profile, you can book a consultation with one of our licensed immigration consultants.