How the Canada Immigration Points System Works
MAR 19, 2021
|
ROBYNN FARRELL
Thousands of talented people from all over the world move to Canada every month, most of whom apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry system. The Express Entry system is a points-based system that measures which applicants are best suited to not only help fill Canada’s decreasing labour pool but also help to select candidates that are most likely to integrate easily into Canadian society. Candidates are weighted up against others based on factors such as their age, language proficiency in English and/or French, education, work experience (if any) as well as other adaptability factors.
Based on the 2019 Express Entry draw report, the Express Entry system has seen continued growth in the last few years but only 72% of all Express Entry applicants were found to be eligible. That’s a total of 93,216 Express Entry applicants that never made it into the draw pool. The report also revealed that almost two-thirds of Express Entry applicants did not claim any additional points (69%). Most candidates scored between 350 and 399 CRS scores in 2019 when the average CRS cut-off score was 461.
Although many are aware of the basic factors, many miss out on gaining these extra points, which could cost them their chances to receive an Invitation to Apply(ITA) for permanent residence in Canada. So let's take a closer look at Canada’s Immigration points system and how it works so that you can achieve your highest score possible and increase your chances of moving to Canada.
What is the Comprehensive Ranking System?

- skills;
- education;
- language ability;
- work experience; and
- other factors.
Which programs use the points system?
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program;
- The Federal Skilled Trade Program; or
- The Canada Experience Class.
How Are CRS Points Calculated?

- Core points = 600 points; and
- Additional points = 600 points
Core CRS Points
Core CRS points are received for:-
- Skills and experience factors
- Spouse or common-law partner factors eg. language skills and education; and
- Skills transferability eg. education and work experience.
Additional CRS Points
Additional CRS points are received for:-
-
- Canadian degrees, diplomas or certificates;
- A valid job offer;
- A nomination from a province or territory;
- A brother or sister living in Canada (citizen or permanent resident.
- Strong French language skills.
-
CORE POINTS + ADDITIONAL POINTS = TOTAL SCORE
Below is a breakdown of the maximum amount of points you could stand to earn:SECTION A - Core/Human Capital | ||
---|---|---|
Criteria | Maximum Points With Spouse | Maximum Points Without Spouse |
Age | 100 | 110 |
Education | 140 | 150 |
Language Skills(English/French) | 150 | 160 |
Canadian Work Experience | 70 | 80 |
SECTION B - Spouse or Common-Law Partner | |
---|---|
Criteria | Maximum Points |
Education | 10 |
Language Skills(English/French) | 20 |
Canadian Work Experience | 10 |
SECTION C - Skills Transferability | |
---|---|
Education | Maximum Points |
Language Skills(English/French) + Education | 50 |
Canadian Work Experience + Education | 50 |
Foreign Work Experience | Maximum Points |
Language Skills(English/French) + Foreign Work Experience | 50 |
Foreign Work Experience + Canadian Work Experience | 50 |
Certificate of Qualification (Trades) | Maximum Points |
Language Skills(English/French) + Education Certificate | 50 |
SECTION D - Additional Points | |
---|---|
Criteria | Maximum Points |
Brother and Sister Living in Canada | 15 |
French Language Skills | 30 |
Post-Secondary Canadian Education | 30 |
Arranged Employment | 200 |
Provincial Nomination | 600 |
Top Ways to Increase Your CRS Score

1. Improve Your Language Test Scores
2. Increase Work Experience
3. Get a Provincial Nomination (PN)
4. Complete Another Qualification
5. Get a Job Offer in Canada
6. Apply with Your Loved Ones
Rest Assured Knowing Your Application Is In Good Hands

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Don't risk your chances to move to Canada from India. Let us make sure that all forms are completed correctly and sent in on time. Simply fill out our application form to receive your assessment today and take one step closer to the life you’ve always dreamt of in Canada.