Express Entry is not an immigration program in itself, it is actually an online system created to manage Canada’s immigration applications intake.
Applicants who meet eligibility criteria submit an online profile known as an Expression of Interest (EOI), under one of three federal Canada immigration programs or a participating provincial immigration program, to the Express Entry Pool. The three immigration programs are Federal Skilled Worker Class, Federal Skilled Trade Class and Canadian Experience Class, each of which has its own eligibility criteria.
Candidates’ profiles are ranked against each other according to a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The highest-ranked candidates will be considered for an Invitation To Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Those receiving an ITA must quickly submit a full application and pay processing fees, normally within 60 days. This has recently extended to 90 days to cope with the delay during COVID-19.
The table below compares the eligibility criteria of the three programs under EE (open in tables or laptops for a better view) ：
| Program/Eligibility Criteria | FSW | FST | CEC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Experience | - 1 year full-time(1560hrs) - Equivalent in part-time - Past 10 years - Continuous experience - NOC Code under 0 A or B - One NOC - Self-employment - Student work experience | - 2 year full-time (3120hrs) - Equivalent in part-time - Past 5 years - Specified occupation list | - 1 year full-time(1560hrs) - Equivalent in part-time - Past 3 years - In Canada - NOC 0 A B |
| Language | - CLB 7 | - CLB 5 S & L - CLB 4 W & R | - CLB 7 NOC 0,A - CLB 5 NOC B |
| Job Offer | - Not required - More points added | - Canadian certificate - Or job offer | - Not required |
| Funds | - Required | - Required | - Not required |
| Education | - Secondary school | - Not required - Employment requirement | - Not required |
