Express Entry (CEC, FSW, FST)
Canada's main system for skilled workers: profiles, draws, invitations and the PR application.
Express Entry is Canada's main system for skilled workers who want permanent residence. You create a profile, get a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and IRCC invites candidates in general, program and category rounds. After an invitation you have 60 days to apply.
Who qualifies
- Federal Skilled Worker: 1 year of continuous skilled work (TEER 0 to 3) in the last 10 years, CLB 7, and secondary education or higher.
- Canadian Experience Class: 1 year of skilled work in Canada (TEER 0 to 3) in the last 3 years; CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3.
- Federal Skilled Trades: 2 years in a skilled trade in the last 5 years, CLB 5 speaking and listening and CLB 4 reading and writing, and a job offer or certificate of qualification.
- Categories (French, healthcare, STEM, trades, education, transport and more) can invite at lower scores.
Documents usually needed
- Language test results
- Educational credential assessment (ECA) for education outside Canada
- Reference letters showing your duties, hours and pay
- Proof of funds (unless you are exempt)
- Police certificates and medical exam after the invitation
What often goes wrong
- Work experience letters that do not match the NOC duties you claimed.
- A CRS score claimed in the profile that the documents cannot support.
- Proof of funds that dips below the required amount.
How RAE helps
- A strategy that compares Express Entry, categories and provincial nominee programs for your profile.
- A consultation with a licensed RCIC to confirm you qualify and the best route.
- A personalised document checklist in your secure client portal.
- Every document reviewed before submission, with explanation letters where needed.
- Weekly updates until IRCC decides, and IRCC letters explained when they arrive.
Official sources (checked 2026-11-10): Express Entry: compare the programs (IRCC), Express Entry categories (RAE), CRS calculator (RAE).
General information only, not legal advice. Every case is different: book a consultation with a licensed RCIC to discuss yours.
Speak with a licensed consultant
Every file is different. In a consultation, an RCIC reviews your situation and tells you plainly what your options are and what a strong application needs.