7 Misconceptions about the Express Entry System

With the introduction of the Express Entry system in 2015, the Canadian immigration process has become more streamlined. The processing time has become faster with the introduction of new procedures, rules, and regulations. There is no denying that the Express Entry system has become a popular pathway for migrants. Surprisingly there are certain misconceptions about the system that makes it difficult for those who are not well-versed with immigration laws to understand the system.

This post will look at some common misconceptions about the Express Entry System and tell you the real facts behind them.

1. Express Entry will automatically get you a PR visa:

At first glance, the Express Entry system may seem like a pathway to permanent residency, but the truth is it is an application management system which helps to streamline the process. The system helps to filter applications from prospective migrants and choose the right ones who can contribute to the country’s economy.

The Express Entry System is linked to three different pathways to a PR visa:

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

Under this system, the applicant fills out his Express Entry profile that will include your education, skills, work experience, language proficiency etc.  Applicants are ranked against others and based on how well they meet overall requirements. They are given a score (CRS score) and those with the highest score get an invitation to apply (ITA) to the various immigration programs in Canada.

2. Provincial immigration programs have no connection to the Express Entry system:

Though the Express Entry system is linked to the IRCC and the Federal skilled worker programs, provinces also depend on the Express Entry system to access the profiles of skilled workers to help fill employment positions in their provinces.

In fact, most PNPs are connected to the Federal Express Entry system. In this case, if your visa application makes it to the Express Entry pool, you will get an additional 600 points added to your CRS score when applying for a PR visa. This increases your possibility of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for your PR visa in the subsequent invitation rounds for the PR visa.

Those wishing to apply for the PNP programs linked with Express Entry pool must first create an Express Entry profile. There is also the option for applying under the non-Express Entry aligned PNPs.

3. Job offer is mandatory to qualify for Express Entry:

Many believe that one needs to have a job offer to migrate to Canada through the Express Entry system. This is not true, though it may improve your chances of getting a PR visa, it is not necessary.

If you have applied through the Express Entry pool, you will be given a CRS score. If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you can add 600 points to your CRS score.

4. You don’t need to pass any language tests to enter the Express Entry pool:

 Many believe that language tests are not required to enter the Express Entry pool. In fact, they are mandatory. All applicants must have proof of their proficiency in either English or French at the eligible levels as prescribed by the government to be included in the Express Entry pool. In fact, it is advisable to take the language test as soon as you decide to apply through the Express Entry System.

5. Candidates will be able to see their points and ranking under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):

Candidates have access to their total CRS score and the points threshold for the recent draws. However, they will not be able to access their specific ranking in the pool.  They will not be able to find out how many points are required for the next draw in the Express Entry pool. However, based on the points required for earlier draws candidates can infer how many points they will need to qualify for an ITA and can then work towards it.

6. You Cannot Update Your EE Profile Once You Upload it:

Many believe that it is not possible to make changes to one’s Express Entry profile once it is uploaded. Fact is the system is flexible, you can update your application even after you have entered your profile in the EE pool.

You can edit your profile online if there are a change in your marital status, your language test scores or need to add an additional educational qualification.

7. You cannot make any attempts to change your CRS Score:

If you find yourself with a low CRS score not high enough to qualify for an Express Entry draw. It is not your final score. You can always try to improve it. You can once again attempt the language tests or go for higher educational qualifications or better still do your further studies in Canada or gain some additional work experience.