Latest: Round — 500 ITAs at CRS 392
At $1,570, the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker is the 49th-cheapest of the 62 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $480 median. Its 9-month average processing time ranks it 53rd-fastest, quicker than 15% of the others.
Based on published immigration-authority data for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker, about 30% of applicants are selected. Figures as of 2025-Q4, from ~109k invitations / ~250k pool, 2024.
“IRCC issued ~109,000 Express Entry invitations across 2024 from a pool averaging ~250,000 active profiles; ~30% of profiles meeting category-specific or general thresholds invited within 12 months.”
- Most sponsors are in:
- Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia
- Most sponsored occupations:
- Harvesting labourers, Livestock labourers, Cooks
LMIA volume is dominated by seasonal agriculture, so this shows who sponsors, not demand for any particular profession.
About the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker
The Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker is Canada's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence. Canada's flagship points-based immigration stream for skilled foreign nationals. CRS score determines invitation to apply.
Applications are processed in 6–12 months on average. Government fees start at $1,570, and the visa is valid for 5 years. This is a points-based system, meaning applicants are ranked competitively by score. A stronger profile improves your chances of selection.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a Bachelor's degree and 1+ years of skilled work experience, along with a recognised language test result.
The Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker is suited to work in tech, relocate with family.
Weighing Canada against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
See how the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker stacks up head-to-head against related pathways:
Eligibility requirements
| Minimum education | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Work experience | 1+ years |
| Job offer required | No |
| Language test | CLB 7+ required |
| Points required | 470+ points |
Official sources: FSWP · canada.ca·FSWP success-rate data · canada.ca
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
This visa is a direct permanent residence grant.
Validity period
5 years
Points-based system
Applicants are ranked by score. Higher points improve your chances.
Estimate your score with the CRS calculatorHow to apply for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker
- 01
Calculate your points score
Use the official Canada points calculator to estimate your score before investing time in the full application. A score of 470+ is needed.
- 02
Complete a language test
Book and sit a recognised English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent). Scores are typically valid for two years, so time this carefully against your intended application date.
- 03
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum Bachelor's degree), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 04
Submit your FSWP application
File online through the official Canada immigration portal and pay the government fee of $1,570. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 05
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 06
Receive decision (6–12 months)
Standard processing takes 6–12 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker?
A minimum Bachelor's degree, 1+ years of relevant work experience, A recognised language test result, A points score of 470 or above
How long does the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker take to process?
Processing time for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker is typically 6–12 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Canada immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker cost?
The government application fee for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker is $1,570 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker grants permanent residence directly on approval.
Do I need a job offer for the Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker?
No. The Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history, and points score. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.