Express Entry, Federal Skilled Worker Program

Canada • Immigration Consulting

Overview

Canada's flagship points-based immigration pathway for skilled professionals. Candidates are assessed on age, education, language ability (English and/or French), work experience, and adaptability under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Invitations to Apply (ITAs) are issued through draws based on CRS ranking as well as specific selection categories set by the Canadian government. Successful applicants may then apply for permanent residency.

Express Entry manages three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. The FSWP is designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.

New World Immigration's licensed Canadian immigration consultant, registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), guides clients through every stage of the Express Entry process, from initial eligibility assessment and CRS optimisation through to profile submission, ITA response and final landing.

Who is this permit for?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program is designed for skilled professionals with qualifying work experience, education and language ability who wish to immigrate to Canada permanently.

Application process

1. Eligibility Assessment

We evaluate your work experience, education, language scores and personal circumstances to determine your eligibility for the FSWP and estimate your CRS score.

2. Educational Credential Assessment

If your education was obtained outside Canada, you need an ECA from a designated organisation (such as WES) to verify that your credentials are equivalent to Canadian standards.

3. Language Testing

You must complete an approved English language test (IELTS General, CELPIP, or PTE Core) and/or French test (TEF or TCF). Higher scores significantly increase your CRS ranking.

4. Express Entry Profile Submission

We create and submit your Express Entry profile online. Your CRS score is calculated based on age, education, language ability, work experience, and additional factors such as a provincial nomination.

5. CRS Optimisation

We identify opportunities to improve your CRS score, including provincial nomination pathways, additional language testing, spousal factors, or Canadian work/study experience.

6. Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cut-off in a draw, you receive an ITA. You then have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residency application.

7. Application Submission

We prepare and lodge your full application with all supporting documents including police clearances, medical examinations, proof of funds, and reference letters.

8. Processing and Landing

IRCC processes your application. Once approved, you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can complete your landing in Canada.

Key considerations

Costs

The cost of an Express Entry application includes government fees, third-party costs, and professional service fees. Government fees are set by IRCC and are subject to change.

Government fees are per applicant. Additional fees apply for spouse/partner and dependent children. Settlement fund requirements vary by family size (CAD 15,263 for a single applicant).

Processing timeframes

Express Entry is designed for fast processing. However, preparation time for language tests, ECA, and supporting documents can add to the overall timeline.

Job offer requirements

A job offer is not required for the Federal Skilled Worker Program. While a valid LMIA-supported job offer was historically a significant CRS factor, job offers currently do not award CRS points under the Express Entry system.

New World Immigration operates a dedicated recruitment division that connects skilled professionals with Canadian employers. While we cannot guarantee job offers, this service provides meaningful support for candidates seeking arranged employment.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum CRS score needed for an ITA?

There is no fixed minimum. CRS cut-off scores change with every draw. Recent general draws have had cut-offs ranging from 430 to 530+. Category-based draws targeting specific occupations may have different thresholds.

How long does my Express Entry profile stay active?

Your profile is valid for 12 months from the date of submission. If you do not receive an ITA within that period, you can resubmit a new profile.

Can I include my family in the application?

Yes. You can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your permanent residency application. Your spouse's education, language scores, and Canadian work experience can also contribute to your CRS score.

Do I need a job offer to apply?

No. The FSWP does not require a job offer. Job offers currently do not award CRS points under Express Entry.

What is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

Each Canadian province and territory operates immigration streams targeting workers they need. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an ITA. NWI has particular expertise in SINP, OINP, BCPNP, and AAIP.

How much money do I need to show as settlement funds?

Settlement fund requirements are set annually by IRCC and vary by family size. For a single applicant, CAD 15,263 is currently required. A valid job offer may waive this requirement under specific conditions, but this is not automatic.

Can I apply for citizenship after becoming a permanent resident?

Yes. Canadian permanent residents can apply for citizenship after accumulating 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada within a five-year period. This is approximately three years.

Get expert help

If you believe you may qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program through Express Entry, the next step is to complete a structured eligibility assessment.

Our licensed Canadian immigration consultant will review your qualifications, experience and CRS estimate to provide clear guidance on your pathway to Canadian permanent residency.