5 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating an Express Entry Profile
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating an Express Entry Profile
Creating an Express Entry profile can be challenging, and many applicants find their profiles deemed ineligible or receive fewer CRS points than expected if they don’t know enough about the system. This often results from one of two main issues: not meeting eligibility criteria or making errors when creating the profile.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an application management system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. Launched in January 2015, it’s an online system used to manage applications under certain federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- A portion of the Provincial Nominee Program
Candidates eligible for these programs can create an online Express Entry profile and are ranked against others using a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) that awards points based on factors like age, education, language ability, and work experience.
The highest-scoring or most economically attractive candidates in the pool are issued Invitations to Apply for permanent residence based on targets set annually by the Canadian government.
The goal of Express Entry is to allow Canada to actively recruit skilled immigrants who are positioned to establish themselves economically in Canada.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid On Your Express Entry Profile
- Not Checking Eligibility Before Creating Your Profile
Before starting your Express Entry profile, ensure you meet the minimum eligibility criteria for programs like the CEC, FSW, or FST. Many applicants focus solely on their CRS points without verifying if they are eligible to apply. It’s essential to confirm your eligibility before calculating your CRS points. - Creating a Profile Without an Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your education was obtained outside of Canada, you need an ECA from a designated organization. Your profile will require your ECA document number, issuing organization, date of issue, and Canadian equivalency. Without an ECA, you won’t receive CRS points for your education, and your profile may be deemed ineligible or will receive very low points. - Including Non-Eligible Work Experience
Only include work experience relevant to meeting the minimum eligibility criteria and maximizing your CRS points. Ensure that your work experience is classified as skilled as per the NOC matrix in order for it to be eligible. - Forgetting to Re-Submit Your Profile After Changes
You can update your Express Entry profile at any time before receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). After making changes, such as adding new work experience, ensure you select “continue” and re-submit your profile. Failing to do so means the system won’t recognize the new information, and you won’t receive additional points. - Making Manual Errors
Manual errors are common reasons for ineligibility or lower CRS scores. Double-check all information before submitting your profile. After submission, immediately verify your profile status and CRS points total. If your points seem incorrect, review your profile for possible manual errors.
Avoiding these common mistakes can improve your chances of success in the Express Entry system.
How We Can Help
If you’re planning to apply or have already started your Express Entry journey, our team of immigration consultants is here to help. We specialize in navigating the intricacies of the immigration process, ensuring your profile meets all requirements and maximizes your chances of success.
Schedule a personalized one-on-one consultation with one of our knowledgeable immigration consultants today. Our consultants will assess your situation, guide you through the application process, and ensure your compliance with the latest regulations. Contact us and secure your pathway to permanent residence in Canada.
The Team at Northern Connections Canada
