Express Entry is a system introduced by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence under certain economic immigration programs. It aims to streamline the immigration process for skilled workers and ensure that Canada’s economic needs are met effectively. The Express Entry system covers three main programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
– The Federal Skilled Worker Program is designed for individuals with the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to Canada’s economy. Applicants must meet minimum eligibility requirements based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
– To qualify for the FSWP, candidates must have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
– Candidates are assessed based on a points system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. Those with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.

2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
– The Federal Skilled Trades Program is for individuals with skilled trade work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. Eligible trades include electricians, welders, plumbers, carpenters, and others.
– To qualify for the FSTP, candidates must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the five years preceding the application. They must also meet other eligibility criteria, including language proficiency and job offer requirements in some cases.
– Like the FSWP, candidates for the FSTP are assessed using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to determine their eligibility for permanent residence through Express Entry.

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
– The Canadian Experience Class is for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residence. Candidates must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the three years preceding the application.
– To be eligible for the CEC, candidates must meet language proficiency requirements in English or French and demonstrate that they have obtained their work experience legally while in Canada.
– Candidates applying through the CEC are also assessed using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with points awarded based on factors such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and adaptability.