Has your dream of settling in Canada made you curious about the Express Entry draw system?
Wondering how to increase your chances of receiving that golden invitation for Permanent Residency (PR)?
You’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
In this 2025 guide, we break down the Express Entry system, its draw mechanism, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step process to apply. Whether you're a skilled worker, a tradesperson, or someone with Canadian work experience, this blog will help you understand the road to Canadian PR.
What is the Express Entry System?
The Express Entry System is an online immigration application management system created by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in 2015. It fast-tracks the Canadian PR process for skilled foreign workers by inviting top-ranking candidates to apply through periodic draws.
It oversees three major immigration programs:
1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
For professionals with foreign work experience who want to live in Canada.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
For experienced tradespeople in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture.
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For individuals who already have Canadian work experience and wish to stay permanently.
Who is Eligible for the Express Entry System?
Eligibility depends on the program you're applying for. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
Work Experience: 1 year of skilled work in the past 10 years (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 7 in French or English
Education: Canadian diploma/degree or foreign credential + ECA
Proof of Funds: Required unless you have a valid job offer or current Canadian employment
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
- Work Experience: 2 years (3,120 hours) in the past 5 years in skilled trades
- Language Proficiency: CLB 5 (speaking/listening), CLB 4 (reading/writing)
- Job Offer/Trade Certificate: Required for eligibility
- Proof of Funds: Must be shown unless already working in Canada
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Work Experience: 1 year in the last 3 years in a TEER 0–3 job
- Language Proficiency: CLB 7 (TEER 0–1), CLB 5 (TEER 2–3)
What is the Express Entry Draw System?
The Express Entry Draw is a bi-weekly selection process run by the Canadian government. In each draw, IRCC picks candidates from the Express Entry pool who meet or exceed the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score and sends them an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
The latest draw (April 14, 2025) targeted the Provincial Nominee Program, with a minimum CRS score of 764.
Types of Express Entry Draws:
- All-Program Draws: Combines applicants from FSW, FST, and CEC programs. Selection is based purely on CRS score.
- Program-Specific Draws: Targets only one of the Express Entry programs, like the CEC or FST.
- Category-Based Draws: Focus on candidates in high-demand sectors or with specific skills—e.g., French proficiency, healthcare, tech/STEM occupations.
How to Apply for the Express Entry System (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use the official IRCC eligibility tool to find out which program(s) you qualify for.
Step 2: Take a Language Proficiency Test
Take IELTS, CELPIP (English), or TEF/TCF (French). Most programs require CLB 5 to CLB 7.
Tip: To boost your chances, consider learning French. Kochiva offers intensive courses aligned with B2 level (CLB 7) requirements.
Step 3: Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
This step validates that your foreign education is equivalent to Canadian standards.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Submit your profile on the IRCC portal with all necessary details like work experience, language scores, and education.
Step 5: Receive Your CRS Score
Your profile is ranked based on a points system. The higher your CRS score, the better your chances.
Step 6: Wait for the Draw & ITA
IRCC conducts draws every 2 weeks. If your score is above the cut-off, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply.
Step 7: Submit Your PR Application
After getting the ITA, submit your full PR application along with supporting documents and fees. This includes:
- Medical exam
- Police verification
- Proof of funds
- Job offer letter (if applicable)
Understanding the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System)
Your CRS score is determined by:
- Age
- Education
- Language Proficiency
- Work Experience
- Canadian job offers
- Provincial nominations
- Additional factors (e.g., siblings in Canada, Canadian education)
A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS—virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces to select immigration candidates suited to their local labour needs. After receiving a provincial nomination, you still need federal approval.
Note: Quebec and Nunavut do not participate in PNP.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Express Entry
1. False or misleading information: Can lead to a 5-year ban.
2. Missing deadlines: IRCC is strict—delay could mean re-starting the process.
3. Wrong NOC codes: Ensure your job duties align with the correct NOC, not just the title.
4. Expired language tests: Tests must be valid during the entire PR process.
Final Thoughts: Your Ticket to Canada
The Express Entry Draw System is the Canadian government’s streamlined pathway for skilled workers to achieve Permanent Residency. By creating a strong profile, scoring high on the CRS, and avoiding common mistakes, you can maximize your chances of getting an ITA.
French proficiency and provincial nominations are among the most effective ways to boost your profile in 2025.
Ready to begin your journey? Start preparing your documents, improve your French, and craft a high-CRS profile your Canadian dream is closer than you think.
Have Questions?
Drop them in the comments or explore French training options with Kochiva to improve your CRS score today!
Read the full article: Express Entry Draw System
