Canada’s Express Entry system is one of the fastest and most popular pathways for skilled workers to become permanent residents of Canada. It manages applications for three major immigration programs and is designed to select candidates based on skills, work experience, language ability, and education.

This blog will walk you through the step-by-step application process and the typical timeline so you can plan your immigration journey with confidence.

What Is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online immigration system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It manages applications for:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Candidates are ranked in a pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points based on age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Step-by-Step Canada Express Entry Application Process

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility (1–2 days)

Before applying, ensure you are eligible under at least one of the three programs. You will need to meet minimum requirements for:

• Skilled work experience

• Language proficiency

• Education level

You can use CRS calculators and IRCC tools to estimate your score.

Step 2: Take a Language Test (2–8 weeks)

You must take an approved English or French language test:

• IELTS General Training

• CELPIP General

• TEF Canada / TCF Canada (for French)

How long it takes:

• Booking a test date: 1–4 weeks

• Receiving results: 3–14 days

Step 3: Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (4–8 weeks)

If you completed your education outside Canada, you must get your credentials assessed by an IRCC-approved agency such as:

• WES

• IQAS

• CES

• ICES

Timeline includes:

• Application and document submission: 1–2 weeks

• Processing by ECA body: 2–6 weeks

Step 4: Create Your Express Entry Profile (1–2 hours)

Once you have your language test results and ECA report, you can create your official profile on the IRCC website.

You will enter details such as:

• Work experience

• Education

• Language scores

• Marital status

After submission, you are officially entered into the Express Entry pool.

Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) (Waiting period: 1 week to several months)

Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during Express Entry draws.

Important notes:

• Draws usually happen every 2 weeks

• The waiting time depends on:

  • Your CRS score

  • Program-specific or category-based draws

Some applicants receive an ITA within weeks, while others may wait several months.

Step 6: Submit Permanent Residence Application (Up to 60 days)

Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence (PR) application, including:

• Police clearance certificates

• Medical examination results

• Proof of funds

• Work reference letters

• Passport and identity documents

It’s best to start preparing these documents while you’re still in the Express Entry pool.

Step 7: Biometrics Submission (1–2 weeks)

After you submit your PR application, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).

You must visit an authorized Visa Application Centre (VAC) to give:

• Fingerprints

• Photograph

Appointments are usually available within 1–2 weeks.

Step 8: Medical Examination (1–3 weeks)

You must complete a medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician.

Timeline:

• Booking appointment: 3–10 days

• Results uploaded by clinic: 5–10 days

Step 9: Background & Security Checks (2–4 months)

This is the longest part of the process.

IRCC will verify:

• Your employment history

• Criminal records

• Security information

• Travel history

They may request additional documents if needed.

Step 10: Final Decision & Passport Request (1–4 weeks)

If your application is approved, you’ll receive:

• Passport Request (PPR) email

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

• Instructions for visa stamping (if applicable)

Complete Express Entry Timeline at a Glance

Here’s a realistic timeline from start to finish:

Total average processing time:
👉 6 to 12 months (varies by profile strength and country of residence)

Tips to Speed Up Your Express Entry Process

• Aim for high language test scores (CLB 9 or above)

• Ensure your work reference letters are detailed and accurate

• Prepare police certificates early

• Keep your profile updated with new scores or experience

Final Thoughts

Canada’s Express Entry system is fast, transparent, and merit-based, making it one of the best immigration pathways in the world. With proper planning and complete documentation, you can significantly improve your chances of success and reduce delays.