The Express Entry system is the primary pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. It ranks candidates based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and only those with the highest scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
1. Improve Your Language Score (IELTS/CELPIP)
Retake Your IELTS or CELPIP Test:
- For example, increasing your IELTS Writing score from 6.5 to 7.0 can boost your CRS by 15+ points.
Take the TEF/TCF for French Proficiency:
- French speakers can earn additional CRS points for a second language.
- If you achieve CLB 7 in French, you can get up to 50 extra points.
2. Get a Job Offer in Canada
Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add 50 to 200 CRS points, depending on the skill level of the job.
Apply for a Canadian job before submitting your Express Entry profile.
Use job search platforms like:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed Canada
- Provincial job portals
3. Apply Through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Receiving a PNP nomination gives you a 600-point boost, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
Apply to provinces with fast PNP processing, such as:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Prioritizes tech workers and healthcare professionals.
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) – Selects candidates with ties to Alberta.
- British Columbia PNP (BCPNP) – Focuses on in-demand skilled workers.
4. Increase Your Work Experience
More work experience can increase CRS points, especially if:
- You have 3+ years of skilled work experience
- You work in a high-demand occupation (IT, finance, engineering, healthcare)
- Your work experience is Canadian (gives more CRS points than foreign experience)
Tip: If you don’t have Canadian work experience, consider applying for a temporary work permit through programs like Global Talent Stream (GTS) or LMIA-based work permits.
5. Boost Your Education Credentials
Higher education directly increases CRS points. You can:
Earn another degree, diploma, or certificate:
- A Master’s degree gives up to 135 CRS points.
- A Postgraduate diploma can increase your score significantly.
Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for multiple degrees:
- If you have two or more post-secondary degrees, you can gain extra points.
6. Apply With Your Spouse (If Married)
If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they can help increase your CRS score.
- Your spouse can retake IELTS or CELPIP – A higher language score can add up to 20 extra points.
- Your spouse can get an ECA – If they have a recognized degree, you gain up to 10 extra points.
7. Gain Canadian Experience Through Study or Work
Candidates with Canadian work or study experience have a huge advantage in Express Entry.
- Study in Canada – Completing a one-year or two-year diploma/degree can add extra CRS points.
- Work in Canada – Even one year of Canadian experience can increase CRS significantly.
Example:
A candidate who studies and works in Canada for a year can boost their CRS score by 50+ points.
