Express Entry (Economic Immigration System)
Skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs.
The Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF)) and processing time (~6 months after an invitation to apply), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) is for
Skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs.
Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship.
Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) - eligibility criteria
- Qualify under FSW, CEC or FST
- Meet language test minimums (IELTS/CELPIP or French)
- Have an Educational Credential Assessment if required
- Score competitively on the CRS (points) ranking
- Pass medical and security/background checks
Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Canada) is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF), with an indicative processing time of ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (create a profile, then apply after an invitation) |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Full work rights once PR is granted |
| Study rights | Full study rights once PR is granted |
| Government fee | ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~6 months after an invitation to apply |
| Route to PR | Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship.
Many applicants also compare FSW · Federal Skilled Worker Program, CEC · Canadian Experience Class, FST · Federal Skilled Trades Program. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) pitfalls we fix
Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) cost?
The Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) government fee is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) lead to permanent residence?
Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship.
Can I work on the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System)?
Work rights: Full work rights once PR is granted.
Who can apply for the Express Entry (Economic Immigration System)?
Skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority