Express Entry (FSW, CEC, FST)

Who it’s for

Skilled workers with strong language scores, degrees and work experience.

Key requirements

• Qualify for Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Trades
• Approved language test (CLB 7+ for FSW; CLB 5/7 for CEC by job level)
• Educational Credential Assessment for foreign education
• Proof of settlement funds (unless CEC or valid job offer)

Step by step

1. 1
   Take a language test

   IELTS General Training, CELPIP, PTE Core (English) or TEF/TCF (French). Aim for CLB 9+.
2. 2
   Get your ECA

   Order an Educational Credential Assessment from WES or another designated organisation.
3. 3
   Create your Express Entry profile

   Enter your details on the IRCC portal. Your profile is valid for 12 months.
4. 4
   Improve your CRS while you wait

   Retake tests, add French, apply to provincial streams, gain Canadian experience.
5. 5
   Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

   You have 60 days to submit a complete PR application.
6. 6
   Submit documents, biometrics and medicals

   Upload police certificates, proof of funds, reference letters; pay fees.
7. 7
   Confirmation of PR and landing

   Receive your COPR and land in Canada before it expires.

Document checklist

Start the application to track these, set due dates and attach files.

• Valid passport
  Bio page scan. Check it is valid for the whole planned stay (6+ months beyond travel is safest).
• Language test result
  An approved test for this visa, taken within the validity period (Canada: 2 years; Australia: 3 years).
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
  From an IRCC-designated organisation such as WES, ICAS, IQAS or CES. Valid 5 years.
• Degree certificates and transcripts
  All post-secondary qualifications, with certified translations if not in English/French.
• Employment reference letters
  On letterhead: job title, duties, hours per week, salary and dates, signed by a manager or HR.
• Proof of funds
  Official bank letters/statements showing the required amount, held for the required period.
• Police clearance certificates
  From every country where you lived 6+ months (12+ for Australia) since age 18.
• Immigration medical exam
  With a panel physician approved by the destination. Do it only when asked or allowed.
• Digital photo to specification
  Recent passport-style photo meeting the destination’s size and background rules.
• Birth certificateIf applicable
  Needed for you and any dependants included in the application.
• Expression of Interest / online profile
  Create the profile in the official system and keep it up to date.
• Government fees paid
  Keep the receipt. Check the current fee on the official site before paying.
• Biometrics appointment
  Fingerprints and photo at a visa application centre when requested.