Express Entry, PNP and the path to Canadian permanent residence.

Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)

For skilled workers with foreign experience. Selection through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

• NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupation
• 1 year continuous skilled work experience in the last 10 years
• Minimum CLB 7 in English or French
• ECA for foreign credentials
• Proof of settlement funds (waived with eligible Canadian job offer)

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

For people who have already worked in Canada legally in a skilled occupation.

• 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience in the last 3 years
• CLB 7 for TEER 0/1, CLB 5 for TEER 2/3
• No settlement funds required
• No ECA required (Canadian study/work)

Federal Skilled Trades (FST)

For qualified skilled tradespeople in NOC Major Groups 72, 73, 82, 83, 92, 93 and select others.

• 2 years of full-time work in the trade in the last 5 years
• Valid full-time job offer (≥1 year) OR Canadian certificate of qualification
• CLB 5 speaking/listening, CLB 4 reading/writing

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Provinces and territories nominate candidates whose skills match their labour-market needs. A nomination adds 600 CRS points in Express Entry.

• Enhanced PNP streams (Express Entry-linked)
• Base PNP streams (paper-based, often faster regional pathways)
• Sector-specific streams (tech, health, trades, agriculture)

Category-based Express Entry draws

IRCC now issues invitations to candidates with experience in priority categories — currently including healthcare and social services, STEM, trades, education, agriculture/agri-food, and strong French speakers.