With the new Express Entry system in place, we can now compare and contrast this new system with the previous Federal Skilled Worker Class.
Prior to the release of the Express Entry system Citizenship and Immigration Canada provided multiple assurances that Express Entry would in no way change the Federal Skilled worker Class. The announcements reiterated that the Express Entry will be simply a faster electronic way to process these applications, and will not change the program requirements:
“Express Entry is not a new immigration program; it is a new way for Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to manage economic immigration applications online.”(Source)
“Will Express Entry change immigration program requirements?
No. Express Entry will not change immigration program requirements. Express Entry is not a new program. It is a new way for CIC to manage the intake of economic immigration applications online.” (Source)
The chart below sets out in some detail the requirements pertaining to the two systems illustrating the significant differences between the two systems in Canada immigration laws.
| Federal Skilled Worker | Express Entry | |
| Categories | Federal Skilled Worker in an Eligible occupation, no job offer necessary | PNP or LMIA approved job offer gives the applicant 600 points out of 1,200 points |
| Points | Maximum total 100 points (see charts below) | Maximum Total 1200 (see charts below for express entry with spouse/without a spouse) |
| English or French Skills | 28 points | 160 without a spouse 150 with a spouse |
| Education | 25 points | 150 without a spouse 140 with a spouse |
| Experience | 15 points | 80 points without a spouse 70 points with a spouse |
| Age | 12 points | 110 points without a spouse 100 points with a spouse |
| Spouse or Common Law Partner Factors | Not applicable | Education: 10 points Official Languages: 20 pointsCanadian Work Experience: 10 points |
| Arranged Employment in Canada | 10 points | 600 points |
| Adaptability | 10 points | 100 points |
| PNP | Not applicable | 600 points |
| Minimum Points | 67 points | Variable depending on draw |
| Certainty | If an applicant has 67 points and is within the cap for that year, then he or she will be accepted | No guarantee that will be issued an invitation to apply |
| Job Offer | Not necessary, but provides person with 10 extra points | Provides person with half of the available points |
| Will CIC Contact Me | CIC will contact both positive and negative applicants | CIC will contact only the applicants selected to be issued an invitation to apply |
Federal Skilled Worker Prior to Express Entry
Express Entry without a Spouse/Common-law Partner
Express Entry with a Spouse
