Canada has resumed inviting applicants for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) through its Express Entry system, marking the first All-Program draw since pandemic restrictions were lifted. The Express Entry draw on January 6, 2021, was the 171st draw in the program’s history, where 250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued with a cut-off score of 813. This score applied only to those under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), but the draw extended eligibility to candidates from the FSWP, Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and PNP.

Canada is committed to welcoming over 400,000 immigrants annually as part of its Immigration Levels Plan. If you’re considering immigrating to Canada, let’s explore how the Express Entry process works and how you can potentially qualify.

Understanding Canada’s Express Entry Program

Launched in 2015, the Express Entry system simplifies the application process for Canadian permanent residence. It manages applications for three main immigration categories:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Additionally, some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) have streams that align with Express Entry, allowing provinces and territories to select candidates who meet specific local needs.

Each category has unique eligibility criteria to help skilled workers find the best pathway for their skills and work experience.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)?

The FSWP is ideal for highly skilled professionals who want to bring their expertise to Canada. Applicants typically possess:

• A university degree, diploma, or certificate.
• At least one year of continuous, paid, full-time work experience in specific skilled fields (outside Canada).
• English or French language proficiency, as evidenced by standardized test results.

This program is tailored for individuals in management roles, as well as professionals in fields like healthcare, technology, and finance.

If you meet these criteria, you’ll need to undergo a points-based assessment based on factors like age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Achieving a high score in these categories enhances your chance of receiving an ITA.

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The FSTP is for qualified tradespeople with specialized skills. It supports professionals who work in the following sectors:

• Industrial, electrical, and construction trades (e.g., electricians, carpenters)
• Maintenance and equipment operation trades
• Supervisory and technical roles in natural resources, agriculture, and manufacturing
• Processing, manufacturing, and utility supervision
• Culinary trades (e.g., chefs and cooks)
• Food production (e.g., butchers and bakers)

Candidates in this program must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years, meet the required job-specific skill qualifications, and have either an employment offer in Canada or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The CEC is designed for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience. To qualify, applicants must have gained at least one year of skilled, paid work experience in Canada within the last three years. This pathway is popular among international graduates and temporary workers who have already integrated into the Canadian job market and wish to stay longer.

How the Express Entry Process Works

Canada’s Express Entry system uses a comprehensive points-based system, known as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), to evaluate candidates based on factors like education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and other adaptability factors. Here’s a step-by-step look at how the process unfolds:

1. Submit an Express Entry Profile: Candidates create an online profile detailing their qualifications and experience. Based on the information provided, they receive a CRS score.

2. Receive a CRS Ranking: The system ranks candidates against others in the pool, based on their CRS scores. The higher the score, the better the chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.

3. Wait for an ITA: In periodic draws, candidates with the highest CRS scores receive an ITA, allowing them to proceed with their application for permanent residence.

4. Submit a Complete Application: Once an ITA is received, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application with necessary documentation, such as proof of work experience, language test results, and medical examinations.

5. Approval and Landing: After approval, candidates can move to Canada and begin their journey as permanent residents.

The Role of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) in Express Entry

Canada’s provinces and territories can nominate candidates for permanent residence through Provincial Nominee Programs. While some PNPs operate independently, many have Express Entry-aligned streams that allow selected candidates to join the Express Entry pool with an additional 600 points to their CRS score, significantly improving their chances of receiving an ITA. For instance, programs like Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) are commonly aligned with Express Entry to meet specific regional labor market demands.

Why Immigrate to Canada Now?

Canada’s recent immigration policy targets welcoming over 400,000 newcomers annually over the next few years, presenting an unprecedented opportunity for skilled immigrants. The country’s approach aims to drive economic growth by addressing labor shortages across various industries, from healthcare to information technology and skilled trades. Additionally, Canada offers a high standard of living, world-class healthcare, and robust social programs, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking new opportunities and stability.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Canadian Dream

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but working with licensed immigration consultants can help you find the best route based on your unique skills and goals. From determining your eligibility to preparing a strong Express Entry profile, consultants provide the guidance and expertise needed to streamline your application.

If you’re ready to explore your options for Canadian immigration, contact GreenTech Resources, a licensed Canadian recruiter and immigration consultancy. Whether you qualify under the FSWP, FSTP, CEC, or through a PNP, our experienced team can help you start your journey to Canada with confidence.

Your new life in Canada is just a step away—l