If you’re looking to immigrate to Canada, you may be wondering which Express Entry program is right for you. There are three programs under the Express Entry system: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Each program has its own specific requirements, so it’s important to do your research before applying. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between these programs and help you decide which one is best for you.
What Is An Express Entry Program?
First, let’s start with a brief overview of what an Express Entry program is. The Express Entry system was introduced in 2015 as a way to streamline the immigration process for skilled workers. Under this system, applicants are given a score based on their age, education, work experience, and other factors. The highest-scoring applicants are then invited to apply for permanent residence.
The Different Types of Express Entry
There are three programs that fall under the Express Entry system: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Let’s take a closer look at each of these programs.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
This type of program is for skilled workers with foreign work experience who are looking to live and work in Canada permanently. In order to qualify, applicants must have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent work experience in a skilled occupation. They must also meet the minimum language requirements and prove that they have the skills and qualifications to perform their desired occupation in Canada. You also have to have the intention of residing in Canada but outside of the province of Quebec.
The FSW program is based on selection factors which require you to meet all the minimum criteria to be eligible. That includes age, education, work experience, language ability, and other factors. You must pass with a score of 67 out of 100 to be eligible for an Invitation to Apply.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
The FST program is for skilled workers with work experience in skilled trades occupations and who wants to be a permanent resident in Canada. In order to qualify for this program, you need to have at least two years of full-time experience within the last five years in a skilled trade occupation. You also need to meet the minimum language requirements and prove that you have the skills and a valid job offer letter or a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade from a Canadian province or territory.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class program is for skilled workers who already have work experience in Canada and want to become permanent residents. To qualify, you must have at least one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada in the past three years, that is in the occupations listed under the NOC levels 0, A, or B. Like the other programs, you also need to meet the minimum language requirements. You don’t need a job offer letter to apply for this program, but you will need proof that you intend to live in a province other than Quebec.
What Express Entry Program Is Right For You?
Now that we’ve gone over the different types of Express Entry programs, you may be wondering which one is right for you. The answer will depend on your individual circumstances and what you’re looking for in a program. If you’re a skilled worker with foreign work experience, the FSW program may be a good option for you. If you have experience in a skilled trade, the FST program may be a better fit. And if you already have work experience in Canada, the CEC program could be the right choice.
No matter which Express Entry program you choose, make sure to do your research and meet all the requirements before applying. With a little preparation, you can increase your chances of being accepted into the program and getting one step closer to your goal of living and working in Canada.
If you need help with applying, then don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are experienced Canadian immigration lawyers and can help you with every step of the process!
