How to Stand Out By Creating a Strong Express Entry Profile

Looking to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker? Start by creating the strongest possible Express Entry profile. Your Express Entry profile is crucial in your immigration journey, and putting the best foot forward through your profile is critical. With so many factors that affect your score, from age and education, to work experience and language proficiency, you’ll want to be sure to maximize your points to land at the top of the pool.

The Express Entry system is used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residency from skilled workers. The strongest profiles are then sent an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence – the fast track to immigration. Learn more about the Express Entry system here.

With a robust Express Entry profile, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA. Here’s Canada Abroad’s built-from-experience guide on creating the strongest possible profile.

1.    The Right NOC Code is Critical

The first, and most important step, is thoroughly researching the National Occupation Classification (NOC) code that applies to you. You will need to select the NOC code that closely aligns with your job duties. This is because each job in Canada is classified under a specific NOC code, outlining the duties and responsibilities associated with that role. Choosing the wrong code can lead to issues later in the process, including the potential rejection of your application. It is critical to ensure your employment letters clearly support your chosen NOC code to avoid refusal of your application.

2.    Well-Documented Work Experience Matters

When it comes to listing work experience, be sure to include all skilled work experience obtained in the last ten years. Focus on positions that you can provide the required employment documents for and those that match the criteria for skilled work in Canada. Quality matters more than quantity here; ensure that your roles are well-documented and relevant to bolster your profile’s strength.

3.    Claim All Relevant Education

The first and most important  factor when submitting your education is to get your foreign degrees assessed by a designated organization like WES or ICAS through Educational Credential Assessments (ECA). You cannot obtain points for your education unless it was completed in Canada, or it is recognized by one of the approved organizations. The other crucial element is to ensure you include all qualifications that you can earn points for, even if it is not directly related to your NOC code. Although some organizations suggest otherwise, if you have more than one, you should include all of your completed qualifications. Multiple credentials can sometimes boost your score, so ensure that all your educational achievements are appropriately documented and assessed.

4.    Your Language Scores Can Change the Game

Language proficiency plays a significant role in your Express Entry profile. You need to prove your skills in English and/or French. If your initial scores aren’t high enough, we suggest retaking the tests. For those who are bilingual in French and English, take both

5.    Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are Worth Exploring

Our final tip is to look into Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to potentially boost your profile and increase your chances of receiving an ITA. Different provinces have varying criteria and in-demand occupations, so research and staying up to date on the latest requirements and opportunities is crucial. If you qualify for a PNP, you could potentially add 600 points to your Express Entry profile.

Bonus Tip: Calculate your points before entering the Express Entry pool

Our best advice for your Express Entry Profile:  Don’t do it alone!

Navigating the technicalities of your Express Entry profile on your own can be overwhelming. The team of Consultants at Canada Abroad are here to take the guesswork out of the process and help you refine and create the strongest profile possible, increasing your chances of receiving that all important Invitation to Apply. Our experts will guide you through the process, ensure you optimize your profile and provide tailored advice for putting your best foot forward.

Perhaps you’re still unsure on whether you’re eligible to apply for one of the Economic Immigration programs which use the Express Entry system, our consultants can help you understand the best path towards immigrating to Canada. We’ve helped thousands of people just like yourself make their dream of moving to Canada a reality, we can help you navigate the process too.

You can book a 30 minute consultation with your consultant of choice, or have us review your Express Entry profile for you. You can also make use of our Q&A service and send us your queries via email. However you choose to engage with us, our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC) are members of and in good standing with College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) so you know you’re in good hands.

Ready to strengthen your Express Entry profile? Book a consultation with Canada Abroad today. Your future awaits!