The Express Entry System is without a doubt the most popular pathway for skilled workers to gain permanent residence in Canada. The merit-based assessment for this program uses a point
allocation tool – the Comprehensive Ranking System – wherein each candidate who submits an Expression of Interest for a federal Express Entry stream is assigned points based on varied eligibility criteria, which examines their potential for finding employment and financial security in Canada.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) – the federal immigration authority – regularly holds rounds of invitations or ‘draws’, extending invitations to apply for permanent residence (PR) to the highest-scoring candidates in the Express Entry pool. Within 60 days of receiving an invitation, candidates must submit a complete application – including supporting documents and the Canada PR fees (CAN $1,325 for the primary applicant) – to IRCC.

Only candidates who meet the minimum point requirement i.e. the point ‘cut-off’ receive invitations to apply. The cut-off changes with every draw. So, the point score is an essential part of the immigration process. Points are allocated based on the following factors:

Human Capital Factors

Maximum 460 points for those migrating with a spouse/partner OR 500 points for those migrating without a spouse/partner

The candidate is allocated points for their age, English and/or French language skills, highest educational qualification completed, and work experience in Canada (if any). These factors determine the prospective immigrant’s value for Canada’s workforce.

Spouse/Common-law Partner Factors
Maximum 40 points
If the candidate has a spouse or common-law partner who is migrating to Canada with them and is included in their Expression of Interest, points can be claimed for the spouse’s/partner’s academic qualifications, English and/or French language skills, and Canadian work experience (if any).

Skill Transferability Factors

Maximum 100 points

These factors evaluate how well the candidate’s skills will translate in the Canadian job market. The candidate’s level of education and work experience gained outside Canada is considered in combination with their English/French language skills and work experience within Canada (if any). Candidates who practice trade occupations can claim points based on their certificate of qualification and English/French language skills.

Additional Factors

Maximum 600 points

Candidates can claim extra points by fulfilling any of the following criteria:

Obtaining a provincial nomination (600 points) – 11 of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories nominate foreign nationals who can contribute to local economic development for permanent residence through their distinct Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The nomination criteria for each PNP is different. For instance, the Manitoba PNP requires foreign skilled workers to display a strong connection to Manitoba through prior education/work experience or support of family or friends residing in the province. Other PNPs may not have this requirement.

Securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (Maximum 200 points) – Points are allocated based on the type of job offer i.e. the skill level required to perform the job in Canada. Having a job offer is not a mandatory eligibility requirement.

French language skills (Maximum 50 points) – To claim these points, candidates must showcase the results of an approved French language proficiency examination.

Post-secondary academic credential from a Canadian educational institution (Maximum 30 points) – points are awarded based on the number of years required to complete the academic credential.

Having a brother or sister who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (15 points)

To calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System point score and check your eligibility for immigration under the Express Entry System, you can trust the knowledge of experienced consultants at Visa Experts – who help you lawfully migrate to Canada with the support of authorized representation at every step of the process.