Express Entry Guide
Express Entry is the system Canada uses to manage applications for its three main economic immigration programs. It's the fastest route to permanent residence for most African applicants with a degree, decent English or French, and a few years of skilled work experience.
Which program fits you?
| Program | Best for | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) | Applicants outside Canada with no local work experience | At least 1 year of skilled work experience, language test, education assessment |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | Applicants who have worked in Canada on a work permit | At least 1 year of skilled Canadian work experience in the last 3 years |
| Federal Skilled Trades (FST) | Qualified tradespeople | 2 years of skilled trade experience and a valid job offer or certificate of qualification |
How the process works
Check eligibility
Confirm you meet the minimum requirements for at least one of the three programs.
Get your score
Take a language test and get your credentials assessed, then calculate your CRS score.
Submit your profile
Enter the Express Entry pool. Canada runs draws roughly every two weeks.
Apply for PR
If invited, you have 60 days to submit a complete application with supporting documents.
The fastest way in: provincial nomination
General Express Entry draws can require CRS scores above 500 in a competitive year. A provincial nomination adds 600 points, which all but guarantees an invitation at the next draw. Most African applicants who don't score highly enough for general draws get in this way.
Check Provincial Nominee Programs →Know your number
Before anything else, calculate your CRS score so you know exactly where you stand.
Calculate my CRS score →