Canada PR Point System - Skilled Workers Selection Factors

Canada's Express Entry system is a popular immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. The system employs a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and select candidates based on various selection factors. Here's a breakdown of the key factors and their corresponding points allocation as of my last knowledge update in September 2021:

Age (Maximum 12 points)

Age 18-35: 12 points
Each year over 35 deducts 1 point, with no points awarded after age 47.

Education (Maximum 25 points)

Doctoral level: 25 points
Master's level or professional degree: 23 points
Two or more post-secondary credentials, at least one being a three-year or longer post-secondary program: 22 points
Three-year or longer post-secondary program: 21 points
Two-year post-secondary program: 19 points
One-year post-secondary program: 15 points
Secondary school or less: 5 points

Language Proficiency (Maximum 24 points)

First Official Language (English or French)

High proficiency (CLB 9 or higher): 24 points
Moderate proficiency (CLB 7 or 8): 17 points
Basic proficiency (CLB 6): 13 points
No proficiency (CLB 5 or lower): 0 points
Second Official Language (English or French):
CLB 5 or higher in all four language abilities: 4 points
CLB 4 or lower in any language ability: 0 points

Canadian Work Experience (Maximum 15 points)

1 year of work in Canada: 9 points
2 years: 11 points
3 years: 13 points
4 years: 15 points

Arranged Employment in Canada (Maximum 10 points)

Valid job offer from a Canadian employer: 10 points

Provincial Nomination (Maximum 600 points)

Provincial nomination from a Canadian province or territory: 600 points

Siblings in Canada (Maximum 15 points)

If you, or your spouse or common-law partner, have a sibling in Canada who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident: 15 points

French Language Skills (Maximum 24 points)

Proficiency in French (first official language):

High proficiency (NCLC 7 or higher): 24 points
Moderate proficiency (NCLC 5 or 6): 4 points

Proficiency in French (second official language):

At least CLB 4 in all four abilities: 4 points

Additional Points (Maximum 600 points)

Factors such as a valid job offer, Canadian education, a sibling in Canada, or strong French language skills can contribute additional points to your CRS score.

The highest possible CRS score is 1,200, which includes the core CRS points (out of 600) and additional points (out of 600). Candidates with the highest scores are typically invited to apply for Canadian permanent residency during Express Entry draws.

FAQs

1. What is the minimum CRS score required for Express Entry?

There is no fixed minimum CRS score required for Express Entry. The score needed to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) varies with each draw, depending on the pool of candidates and the number of ITAs issued.

2. Can I improve my CRS score after submitting my Express Entry profile?

Yes, you can improve your CRS score after submission. For example, gaining more work experience, obtaining a higher language proficiency score, or obtaining a job offer can increase your points.

3. How often are Express Entry draws conducted?

Express Entry draws are typically held every two weeks. However, the frequency and the number of ITAs issued can vary depending on Canada's immigration needs.

4. What happens if I receive an ITA for permanent residence?

Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. It's crucial to gather all required documents and information promptly.

5. Can I apply for Express Entry without a job offer?

Yes, you can apply for Express Entry without a job offer. While a job offer can provide additional points, many candidates are selected based on their human capital factors, such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.

Please note that the Canadian government periodically updates its immigration policies and CRS criteria. It's essential to check the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or consult with an immigration professional for the most current information.