In addition to express entry programmes, regional governments use their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) to pick eligible applicants from the express entry pool to fill local labour shortages.
The top-scoring applicants are then invited to submit an application for permanent residency (ITA). The points cut-off is determined almost every fortnight by a CRS draw conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). An express entry applicant will remain in the pool for up to 12 months; however, if they do not receive an ITA within that time, they must build a new profile and re-enter the pool.
The Canadian government launched Express Entry in 2015 as an online method for managing permanent residency applications under three federal economic immigration programmes.
Federal Skilled Worker
This programme is for professional professionals with international job experience who choose to permanently relocate to Canada.
Federal Skilled Trades
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is for skilled workers who choose to become permanent residents because they have a skilled trade qualification.
Canadian Experience Class
The Canadian Experience Class is for experienced employees who have worked in Canada and want to stay in the country permanently.