Job Spectra
Canada Express Entry and the CRS score: how it works for Indian applicants
Express Entry is the online system Canada uses to manage skilled-worker immigration applications. You create a profile and enter the pool, and Canada invites the candidates with the most points in rounds. Points come from your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is out of 1,200 and assesses skills, education, language ability, work experience and other factors.
How does Canada Express Entry work and what is the CRS score?
Express Entry is the online system Canada uses to manage skilled-worker immigration applications. You create a profile and enter the pool, and Canada invites the candidates with the most points in rounds. Points come from your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is out of 1,200 and assesses skills, education, language ability, work experience and other factors.
The three programs Express Entry manages
IRCC states these are the programs managed through Express Entry. Each has its own eligibility rules, which are on the IRCC site.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
The four official steps
IRCC lists processing time as varying by program and points you to its processing-times tool, so check that tool for the current wait.
- Create a profile and enter the pool.
- Canada invites the candidates with the most points, in rounds.
- If you are invited to apply, fill out the application.
- IRCC reviews your application and makes a decision.
What the CRS score is
Every Express Entry candidate gets a CRS score out of 1,200. IRCC says it is based on your skills, education, language ability, work experience and other factors. The detailed point tables are on IRCC's CRS criteria page.
You can estimate your score with our Canada CRS score calculator, which is indicative only, or with IRCC's own calculator. For the wider picture of Canadian routes, see our Canada PR page, and compare with the UK Skilled Worker visa.
Avoid paying for a promise of an invitation
- Nobody can guarantee an invitation. Invitations go to the candidates with the most points in each round.
- You can create your own profile on the official IRCC site.
- If you use a representative, check that they are authorised, and keep your own copy of every form and your account login.
Official sources
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Information only, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum CRS score?
IRCC states that every Express Entry candidate gets a score out of 1,200.
Which programs does Express Entry cover?
The Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Does a high CRS score guarantee an invitation?
No. Canada invites the candidates with the most points in rounds, so what counts is where your score stands in each round.
How long does Express Entry take?
IRCC lists processing time as varying by program and provides a tool to check current times.