Express Entry Processing Time

Current IRCC processing times for Express Entry permanent residence applications after ITA.

Overview

Express Entry is Canada's fastest pathway to permanent residence, with a service standard of 6 months from Invitation to Apply (ITA) to final decision. It manages three economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades (FST).

Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)

For skilled workers with foreign work experience. Points-based system using six selection factors.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

For those with Canadian work experience. Popular with PGWP holders and temporary workers.

Federal Skilled Trades (FST)

For workers qualified in a skilled trade. Requires a job offer or certificate of qualification.

Processing Times by Country

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Processing times are estimates from IRCC and may change. They represent the time from application submission to final decision for most cases.

Tips to Avoid Processing Delays

The 6-month clock starts from when you submit a complete application after ITA, not from profile creation

Respond to any requests for additional documents within 30 days to avoid delays

Get your police certificates and medical exam done early - they have expiry dates

Medical exams can be done upfront (before ITA) using the IRCC online tool

Category-based draws (healthcare, STEM, French, etc.) may have different draw frequencies

Check Your Application Status

You can check the status of your application using the IRCC online tools:

Check Status on IRCC

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Express Entry take after ITA?

IRCC's service standard is 6 months (80% of applications). Most applications are processed within this timeframe. Complex cases involving additional background checks may take longer.

How long does it take to get an ITA after submitting a profile?

This depends on your CRS score and the draw frequency. Draws happen approximately every 2 weeks. If your score is above the cutoff, you could receive an ITA within days of a draw. Use our draw predictions to estimate.

What slows down Express Entry processing?

Common delays include: incomplete applications, security/criminality checks (especially for applicants from certain countries), medical follow-up, and incorrect or missing documents. Maintaining an accurate and complete application is the best way to stay on track.

Other Processing Times

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