How to Apply for Canada Express Entry 2025- Canada’s Express Entry system continues to be one of the most efficient immigration pathways for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced some new policies and draw categories that make it even more dynamic and targeted. If you’re looking to immigrate to Canada in 2025, this article provides a detailed guide to the Express Entry system and how you can apply.
What is Express Entry and who is it for ?
Express Entry is an application process for skilled workers who would like to permanently live in Canada (i.e., gain permanent residency). You can find out whether you qualify as a skilled worker by filling out a quick online eligibility questionnaire .
What is Canada Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online immigration application system used by the Canadian government to manage permanent residence applications under three main federal economic immigration programs:
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Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) – for individuals with foreign work experience.
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) – for skilled trade workers.
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – for candidates with recent Canadian work experience.
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Applicants enter a pool of candidates and are ranked based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is calculated using factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability.
New Update for Canada Express Entry in 2025
1. Category-Based Draws Expansion
In 2025, IRCC has prioritized category-based Express Entry draws, focusing on sectors like healthcare, science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), trades, transportation, agriculture, French-language proficiency, and education.
This shift means applicants with work experience in these fields or high French proficiency may receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) even with a lower CRS score.
2. Removal of Job Offer Bonus CRS Points
To reduce fraudulent job offers, IRCC has de-emphasized CRS points for arranged employment. This places more weight on human capital factors—such as language skills, education, and Canadian experience.
How to Apply for Express Entry in 2025
Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, you need to confirm if you’re eligible for one of the three programs under Express Entry. You must make sure you meet the necessary criteria below :
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At least one year of skilled work experience.
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Language test results showing proficiency in English or French (CLB 7 or above).
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A completed Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if your education was outside Canada.
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Sufficient settlement funds (unless you qualify under CEC or have a valid job offer or provincial nomination).
Take a Language Proficiency Test
You must take an approved test in either English or French:
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English: IELTS or CELPIP
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French: TEF Canada or TCF Canada
Aim for the highest possible score to improve your CRS.
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Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your degree or diploma was obtained outside Canada, you need an ECA from an approved agency such as WES, ICES, IQAS, or CES. This verifies that your education is equivalent to a Canadian credential. Documents for Express Entry
Create an Express Entry Profile
Once you have your language results and ECA, you can create your profile on the IRCC website.
You’ll be asked to enter:
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Personal details (age, nationality, etc.)
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Education and work experience
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Language test results
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ECA report
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Details of any provincial nomination or job offer (if applicable)
After submission, you will receive a CRS score and be placed in the Express Entry pool.
Improve Your CRS Score (If Needed)
If your CRS score is below the typical draw threshold, consider ways to boost it:
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Retake language tests for higher scores
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Gain additional work experience
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Pursue further education
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Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to get 600 extra CRS points
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Learn French or improve French proficiency
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Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
IRCC holds Express Entry draws approximately every two weeks. If your CRS score or category matches the criteria of a draw, you will receive an Invitation to Apply.
Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your complete application for permanent residence.
Submit Your PR Application
This is the formal part of the process. You will need to upload:
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Police clearance certificates
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Medical exam results
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Proof of funds
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Employment documents
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Passport biodata page
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Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
You must also pay the application fee (CAD 1,525 for the main applicant).
Wait for a Decision
IRCC aims to process 80% of Express Entry applications within six months. During this time, you may be contacted for additional documents or interviews.
Confirmation of Permanent Residence
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if outside Canada, a permanent resident visa. With this, you can move to Canada and officially become a permanent resident. Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry
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