How does Express Entry work?
Checked against official sources, October 2026
Express Entry is IRCC’s online system for managing skilled worker immigration applications. You create a profile and enter the pool, IRCC invites the highest-ranking candidates in rounds using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and if you are invited you have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence.
Who this is for
Health professionals exploring permanent residence in Canada.
What the official guidance says
- Express Entry manages 3 programs: the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
- The process: create a profile and enter the pool; IRCC invites the candidates with the most points in rounds; if invited, you fill out the application; IRCC reviews it and decides.
- Rounds can be general, program-specific (for example for the Provincial Nominee Program) or category-based.
- Candidates are chosen using points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
- An invitation to apply is valid for 60 days only.
- An immigration medical exam from a panel physician is required for permanent residence, and your family members must also have one even if they are not coming with you.
What it does not mean
- Entering the pool is not an application for permanent residence.
- A profile does not mean you will be invited; it depends on your rank and the rounds held.
- Express Entry does not license you to practise; that is a separate provincial or territorial process.
What to do next
- 01Check you qualify for one of the 3 programs.
- 02Get an approved language test and your other documents ready before you create a profile.
- 03Create your profile and check your CRS score.
- 04If invited, gather documents, have your medical exam and submit within 60 days.
Questions
What happens if I do not apply within 60 days?
IRCC says an invitation to apply is valid for 60 days only, so start the application as soon as you are invited.
Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?
Check the current eligibility and CRS rules on canada.ca; IRCC lists 2026 changes to points for Canadian work experience and job offers.
Official sources
- IRCC (canada.ca): Immigrate through Express Entry
- IRCC (canada.ca): Express Entry rounds of invitations
- IRCC (canada.ca): Apply for permanent residence through Express Entry
Checked October 2026. Immigration rules, fees and thresholds change, so confirm them on the official page before you act.
Plan the whole route, not just the visa
Your Migo Canada plan includes the Express Entry overview, the language test step and the category check, linked to canada.ca, next to your registration steps with NNAS and your regulator. Ask the free AI assistant to explain any stage.
Related guides
General information, not legal or immigration advice. For advice on your own case, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or lawyer.