💼 Work ImmigrationActive🇨🇦 Canada
Express Entry
Canada’s central economic selection route for skilled workers, combining points-based ranking with invitation management for selected permanent-residence programs.
Processing time
6-12 months
Approximate cost
$1,979
Snapshot
Apr 10, 2026
Last verified
Apr 10, 2026
Eligibility
- Qualify under one of the economic programs managed through the system.
- Create an official profile and document education and experience where required.
- Provide proof of funds where the underlying program requires it and no exemption applies.
IRCC explains that proof of funds is required for FSW and FST, but not for CEC, and not when the applicant is authorised to work in Canada and has a valid job offer in the described cases.
Application Steps
1
Identify the correct underlying program
Decide whether you are entering through FSW, FST, or CEC before focusing on ranking.
Estimated duration: 2 weeks
2
Create the Express Entry profile
Open the official profile and enter language, education, and experience data.
Estimated duration: 1 weeks
3
Receive an invitation and prepare the PR file
After receiving an invitation, upload the required civil, financial, and medical documents.
Estimated duration: 4 weeks
4
Processing and final decision
Track the case in the IRCC account and complete any further requests.
Estimated duration: 12 weeks
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Official application form
- Photos or biometrics as required
- Identity and civil status documents
- Language test results
- Proof of funds where applicable
- Education and work-experience evidence as required by the program
Application Channels
IRCC account
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Government Fees
Processing fee
950 CAD
One adult application
Right of Permanent Residence Fee
575 CAD
One adult application
Apr 29, 2026
Right of Permanent Residence Fee
600 CAD
One adult application
Apr 30, 2026
Biometrics
85 CAD
Per person
Financial Requirements
Minimum proof of funds
15,263 CAD • one-time
Single applicant under the IRCC table updated July 7, 2025
Applies only where proof of funds is required in the underlying program.
Timing Notes
Check the official processing-times tool by application type and country of application.
Risk Controls
- Use official portals only and avoid paying unverified intermediaries.
- Separate fixed government fees from proof-of-funds or income requirements.
- Prepare civil and police documents with translation and legalisation where needed before filing.
Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every applicant need proof of funds?
No. It depends on the underlying program and official exceptions such as CEC and certain qualifying job-offer cases.