Express Entry

Express Entry in Surrey, Canada

Your Gateway to Permanent Residency

Canada is one of the most desirable immigration destinations in the world, and the city of Surrey, located in beautiful British Columbia, has emerged as a prime location for newcomers. Whether you’re a skilled worker already living in Surrey or looking to move to this vibrant city, Express Entry can be your fastest and most efficient pathway to permanent residency.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is a points-based immigration system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that facilitates the selection of skilled workers for permanent residence. It covers three main federal economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Express Entry is not an immigration program itself, but a system used to rank candidates and invite the highest-scoring individuals to apply for permanent residency.

Why Choose Surrey as Your Destination?

Surrey is the second-largest city in British Columbia and one of the fastest-growing urban centres in Canada. Here’s why it’s a popular destination for newcomers:

• Strong Job Market: Surrey has a thriving economy with opportunities in construction, healthcare, technology, education, and more.
• Diverse Community: Over 43% of Surrey’s population is made up of immigrants, making it one of the most multicultural cities in the country.
• Affordable Living: Compared to Vancouver, Surrey offers more affordable housing options while still providing access to all major amenities.
• Educational Opportunities: Home to top institutions such as Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With over 200 parks, numerous schools, and family-oriented neighborhoods, it’s an ideal place to raise a family.

If you’re already living in Surrey on a temporary work or study permit, Express Entry can be a smooth transition to permanent residency.

How Does Express Entry Work?

1. Eligibility Assessment

You must first determine which of the three programs you qualify for. Basic eligibility includes:

• At least one year of skilled work experience
• Language proficiency in English or French (IELTS or CELPIP for English)
• Educational credentials (must be assessed by a recognized body such as WES)

2. Create an Express Entry Profile

Once eligible, you can create an online Express Entry profile. You’ll be scored under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on factors such as:

• Age
• Education
• Language proficiency
• Work experience
• Canadian work/study history
• Adaptability (spouse’s education/language skills, relatives in Canada, etc.)

3. Improve Your CRS Score

If your initial score is not competitive, there are ways to improve it:

• Retake your language test for a higher score
• Gain more Canadian work experience
• Complete additional education or training
• Receive a provincial nomination (PNP)

4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

IRCC conducts draws approximately every two weeks, inviting the highest-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residence. Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit a complete application.

5. Application Processing

The target processing time for Express Entry applications is six months from the date of submission. During this time, IRCC will verify your documents and may request biometrics or an interview.

Express Entry with a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in British Columbia

Surrey residents or those planning to settle in the city may benefit from the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). This allows the province to nominate candidates who meet local labour market needs.

If you’re nominated by British Columbia, you’ll receive an additional 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation in the next Express Entry draw. This is especially useful if your CRS score is lower than the typical cut-off.

Benefits of Applying through Express Entry in Surrey

• Faster processing times (as little as 6 months)
• Access to public healthcare and social benefits as a permanent resident
• Eligibility for Canadian citizenship after a few years of residency
• Sponsor family members to join you in Canada
• Work and live anywhere in Canada, although provincial nominees are expected to settle in the nominating province

Common Challenges and How We Help

Navigating Express Entry can be complex, especially with frequent policy changes, language score requirements, and documentation challenges. Our experienced immigration consultants based in Surrey specialize in:

• Evaluating your eligibility
• Improving your CRS score
• Preparing a strong Express Entry profile
• Applying for BC PNP if applicable
• Guiding you through the entire permanent residency application process

Ready to Start Your Journey to Permanent Residency?

If you’re living in Surrey or planning to move here and want to explore your Express Entry options, we’re here to help. Whether you’re just getting started or need support with your existing application, our knowledgeable consultants can guide you every step of the way.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about your eligibility, boost your CRS score, or book a personalized consultation to fast-track your immigration process.