Important Updates
Important Updates
July 7, 2025 | European UnionEuropean Union/Schengen Area: Internal Schengen Border Checks Situation
July 8, 2025 | United KingdomFragomen, Julia Onslow-Cole Shortlisted for FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards
July 8, 2025 | United StatesPartners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger Named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law
July 8, 2025 | United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates: Scientists and Specialists Permit Now Subject to Minimum Employee Headcount
July 8, 2025 | VietnamVietnam: Oversight of Foreign Workers Reassigned to Ministry of Home Affairs
July 7, 2025 | European UnionEuropean Union/Schengen Area: Internal Schengen Border Checks Situation
July 8, 2025 | United KingdomFragomen, Julia Onslow-Cole Shortlisted for FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards
July 8, 2025 | United StatesPartners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger Named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law
July 8, 2025 | United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates: Scientists and Specialists Permit Now Subject to Minimum Employee Headcount
July 8, 2025 | VietnamVietnam: Oversight of Foreign Workers Reassigned to Ministry of Home Affairs
July 7, 2025 | European UnionEuropean Union/Schengen Area: Internal Schengen Border Checks Situation
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationTravel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle EastImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapHumanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)Vietnamese ImmigrationAustralian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Travel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Humanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • Australian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
  • Insights

Canada Express Entry Explained: Who’s Eligible and How to Apply

July 8, 2025

insight-video

Country / Territory

  • CanadaCanada

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Want to move to Canada post-graduation and pursue permanent residency?

In this video, Partner Jack Kim explains how Canada’s Express Entry system works, including eligibility for skilled workers and international students, how the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are calculated and what happens after you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). No matter where you are in your immigration journey, whether exploring options or starting your application, this guide has you covered.

What you’ll learn:

✔️ The three main immigration programs under Express Entry

✔️ How to create your Express Entry profile online

✔️ Tips to improve your CRS score and boost your chances

✔️ The application timeline and required documents

Common questions answered:

✔️ Who qualifies for Express Entry?

✔️ How long does Express Entry processing take?

✔️ Can international students apply for permanent residency through Express Entry?

Need help navigating your post-grad immigration journey? Fragomen can help. Our immigration professionals guide international students through every step of the process, ensuring accuracy and avoiding costly mistakes.


Subscribe to Fragomen’s YouTube channel here and explore our Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students series for more videos from Jack on this topic.


How to Apply for Express Entry to Canada: A Simple Guide for Skilled Workers and Students

 

If you're asking, “How can I move to Canada as a skilled worker?” or “Can I stay in Canada after graduation?”, the Express Entry system might be the answer.

Canada’s Express Entry system is one of the fastest and most popular ways for skilled workers and international graduates to become permanent residents. In this guide, you’ll learn how it works, who it’s for, and how to improve your chances of success.

What Is Canada’s Express Entry System?

Express Entry is an online immigration system used by the Government of Canada to manage applications for permanent residency (PR) under three main immigration programs:

      • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
      • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
      • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

It’s designed to select qualified individuals who have the skills and experience Canada needs. If you're a professional, tradesperson, or recent graduate with Canadian work experience, Express Entry could be your best route to becoming a Canadian permanent resident.

Who Can Apply for Express Entry?

To apply through Express Entry, you must qualify under one of the three federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades

Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. Each program has its own eligibility criteria based on your work experience, education, and language skills.

Example: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class is often the best option for people who already have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. This includes many international students who stay in Canada after graduation and gain relevant experience through a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

How Does Express Entry Work?

Here’s how to apply for Express Entry in Canada:

1. Create an Online Profile

Start by submitting your Express Entry profile through the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website. You’ll need to provide information about:

      • Your job experience
      • Education
      • Language test results (English and/or French)
      • Skills and background

2. Get a CRS Score

Your profile is ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This is a points-based system that scores you on:

      • Age
      • Education level
      • Language proficiency
      • Work experience
      • Other adaptability factors

The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of being selected.

3. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your CRS score meets the current cutoff, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

4. Submit Your PR Application

Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your application. You'll need:

      • Passport
      • Language test results
      • Proof of funds
      • Educational credential assessment (ECA), if required
      • Other supporting documents

5. Application Processing

Most Express Entry applications are processed within six months, making it one of the fastest immigration programs in Canada.

Why Use the Express Entry System?

People choose Express Entry because it’s:

      • Fast – Most applications are processed in under 6 months
      • Transparent – The CRS score system is clear and predictable
      • Accessible – You can apply online, from anywhere in the world
      • Efficient – No need for a job offer (though it can boost your score)

It’s especially attractive for people who want a reliable, streamlined way to move to Canada permanently.

How Can I Improve My CRS Score?

If you’re wondering how to increase your Express Entry points, here are a few effective strategies:

      • Gain more work experience (especially Canadian work experience)
      • Improve your English or French language test scores
      • Get your educational credentials assessed
      • Take additional studies or training in Canada
      • Apply with a spouse or partner (combined scores can help)

Even small improvements can make a big difference in the CRS rankings.

Can International Students Use Express Entry?

Yes. In fact, many international students in Canada apply for PR through Express Entry after graduation. If you’ve completed your studies and have at least one year of eligible work experience, the Canadian Experience Class stream could be your best option.

Need Help with Your Express Entry Application?

At Fragomen, we work closely with international students, graduates, and professionals to help them navigate Canada’s immigration process. Whether you're building your profile, preparing for an ITA, or submitting your final application, we offer end-to-end support.

We’ll help you choose the right pathway, optimize your application, and guide you every step of the way.

Get in Touch

If you're ready to take the next step toward permanent residency in Canada, contact one of our Canada offices today.

 

Country / Territory

  • CanadaCanada

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Jack-Kim

Jack Kim

Partner

Toronto, Canada

Email

[email protected]

T:+1 416 507 3701

Related insights

  • Staying in Canada Post-Grad | Immigration Options for International Students
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Staying in Canada Post-Graduation

Related offices

  • Toronto

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Awards

Fragomen, Julia Onslow-Cole Shortlisted for FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards

Fragomen and Partner Julia Onslow-Cole are shortlisted for the FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards.

Learn more

Awards

Partners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger Named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law

Partners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger are named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law list.

Learn more

Blog post

Private Client Options in APAC: Bespoke Services and Residency Planning

Business Immigration Manager Yvonne Lee and Assistant Business Immigration Manager Shirley Kock discuss bespoke services and residency planning options for private clients in the Asia-Pacific region.

Learn more

Media mentions

The PIE: Trump Eyes Time Limits on US Student Visas

Partner Aaron Blumberg explains how proposed student visa limits could create challenges and add administrative burdens for international students.

Learn more

Podcast

David Kipp über Migration von Indien nach Deutschland

David Kipp von der Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik im Gespräch mit Marius Tollenaere, Partner im Frankfurter Büro von Fragomen.

Learn more

Blog post

EB-5: What You Should Know—And Why It Might Be Worth It

Partner Dan Schwarz and Senior Associate Mikhail (Mike) Izrailev provide an overview of the EB-5 visa program, highlighting its benefits and key considerations for potential investors.

Learn more

Media mentions

Startup Valley Magazin: Workation: Wettbewerbsvorteil oder rechtliches Minenfeld?

Senior Manager Katharina Vorländer discusses workations as a way to support talent retention, noting the legal, tax and immigration considerations involved.

Learn more

Blog post

The 11th Seat: Timor-Leste's ASEAN Debut and the Shifting Map of Regional Mobility

Business Immigration Consultant Ryaihanny Sahrom discusses Timor-Leste's ASEAN debut and its impact on regional mobility.

Learn more

Blog post

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar provides essential information for expats navigating the Saudi real estate market.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 Middle East and Africa Immigration Trends: Balancing Localization Concerns with Global Talent Attraction Efforts

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping the Middle East and Africa in 2025, drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July.

Learn more

Video

French Citizenship by Decree | Everything You Need to Know

Immigration Consultant Azela Hadia covers everything you need to know about French citizenship by decree, a legal process through which a foreign national can acquire French nationality.

Learn more

Blog post

Navigating the UAE Corporate Landscape: A Strategic Guide for Startups and Entrepreneurs

This blog provides an overview of the key factors to consider when deciding in which jurisdiction to set up a company in the UAE.

Learn more

Awards

Fragomen, Julia Onslow-Cole Shortlisted for FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards

Fragomen and Partner Julia Onslow-Cole are shortlisted for the FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2025 Awards.

Learn more

Awards

Partners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger Named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law

Partners Nadine Bahnan, Ruth Spillane and Karine Wenger are named to San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence in Law list.

Learn more

Blog post

Private Client Options in APAC: Bespoke Services and Residency Planning

Business Immigration Manager Yvonne Lee and Assistant Business Immigration Manager Shirley Kock discuss bespoke services and residency planning options for private clients in the Asia-Pacific region.

Learn more

Media mentions

The PIE: Trump Eyes Time Limits on US Student Visas

Partner Aaron Blumberg explains how proposed student visa limits could create challenges and add administrative burdens for international students.

Learn more

Podcast

David Kipp über Migration von Indien nach Deutschland

David Kipp von der Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik im Gespräch mit Marius Tollenaere, Partner im Frankfurter Büro von Fragomen.

Learn more

Blog post

EB-5: What You Should Know—And Why It Might Be Worth It

Partner Dan Schwarz and Senior Associate Mikhail (Mike) Izrailev provide an overview of the EB-5 visa program, highlighting its benefits and key considerations for potential investors.

Learn more

Media mentions

Startup Valley Magazin: Workation: Wettbewerbsvorteil oder rechtliches Minenfeld?

Senior Manager Katharina Vorländer discusses workations as a way to support talent retention, noting the legal, tax and immigration considerations involved.

Learn more

Blog post

The 11th Seat: Timor-Leste's ASEAN Debut and the Shifting Map of Regional Mobility

Business Immigration Consultant Ryaihanny Sahrom discusses Timor-Leste's ASEAN debut and its impact on regional mobility.

Learn more

Blog post

Understanding the Saudi Real Estate Market: What Expats Need to Know

Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar provides essential information for expats navigating the Saudi real estate market.

Learn more

Blog post

2025 Middle East and Africa Immigration Trends: Balancing Localization Concerns with Global Talent Attraction Efforts

This blog highlights the most significant immigration developments shaping the Middle East and Africa in 2025, drawing from Fragomen’s upcoming 2025 Regional Immigration Overviews—available mid-July.

Learn more

Video

French Citizenship by Decree | Everything You Need to Know

Immigration Consultant Azela Hadia covers everything you need to know about French citizenship by decree, a legal process through which a foreign national can acquire French nationality.

Learn more

Blog post

Navigating the UAE Corporate Landscape: A Strategic Guide for Startups and Entrepreneurs

This blog provides an overview of the key factors to consider when deciding in which jurisdiction to set up a company in the UAE.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.