Canada Express Entry system is an appealing pathway for skilled workers looking for permanent residency (PR). Being point-based, every detail in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) matters when applying, especially age - particularly after 30 when applicants begin losing points due to lower rankings in the pool. But don't feel discouraged! There are still multiple strategies you can employ in order to boost your CRS score and potentially receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This guide can assist in exploring various strategies from increasing language test scores to taking advantage of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Understanding the Express Entry System
Canada Express Entry system is designed to manage immigration applications under three main categories:
1) Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
2) Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
3) Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
When you create an Express Entry profile, it is assessed based on several factors, and you are awarded a CRS score. Canadian immigration authorities hold regular draws, where applicants with the highest scores are invited to apply for PR.
Why Does Age Matter in CRS?
Age plays an integral part in determining your CRS score. Candidates in their 20s can score up to 110 points for age; after age 30 these numbers start diminishing steadily until by 45, no points will be awarded for age at all.
Here’s a breakdown of CRS points based on age:
| No. |
Age |
With a spouse or common-law partner
(Maximum 100 points) |
Without a spouse or common-law partner
(Maximum 110 points) |
| 1) |
17 years of age or less |
0 |
0 |
| 2) |
18 years of age |
90 |
99 |
| 3) |
19 years of age |
95 |
105 |
| 4) |
20 to 29 years of age |
100 |
110 |
| 5) |
30 years of age |
95 |
105 |
| 6) |
31 years of age |
90 |
99 |
| 7) |
32 years of age |
85 |
94 |
| 8) |
33 years of age |
80 |
88 |
| 9) |
34 years of age |
75 |
83 |
| 10) |
35 years of age |
70 |
77 |
| 11) |
36 years of age |
65 |
72 |
| 12) |
37 years of age |
60 |
66 |
| 13) |
38 years of age |
55 |
61 |
| 14) |
39 years of age |
50 |
55 |
| 15) |
40 years of age |
45 |
50 |
| 16) |
41 years of age |
35 |
39 |
| 17) |
42 years of age |
25 |
28 |
| 18) |
43 years of age |
15 |
17 |
| 19) |
44 years of age |
5 |
6 |
| 20) |
45 years of age or more |
0 |
0 |
Although candidates over 30 lose points due to age, several strategies can help recover those points and improve your CRS score.
Six Strategies to Boost Your CRS Score After Age 30
• • Enhance Your Language Proficiency (Up to 136 Points)
Your language abilities in both English and French are critical components of achieving a great CRS score. Aim for at least 9 on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). High proficiency can earn up to 136 points; even basic French can give an extra 50-point bonus through Canada's bilingual bonus program!
• • Secure a Valid Job Offer (Up to 200 Points)
An offer from a Canadian employer can make all the difference; it could add anywhere between 50 to 200 points to your CRS score depending on its value and occupation (i.e. management positions and trade occupations are considered more highly). If you already work here in Canada, consider discussing permanent residency sponsorship with your employer.
• • Leverage Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) – 600 Points
PNPs can help boost your CRS score. Receiving a provincial nomination adds 600 points, effectively guaranteeing you an ITA in the next draw. Many provinces also provide streams aligned with Express Entry that enable candidates with specific skills to obtain additional points through PNPs - so keep an eye out for any in your province where your occupation is sought after!
• • Increase Your Work Experience (Up to 100 Points)
More work experience, particularly in Canada, can add valuable points to your CRS score. While both foreign and Canadian work experience are considered, Canadian experience carries more weight. If you've worked in Canada for at least one year, you could gain up to 100 points. Ensure that your work experience is documented accurately, and matches the appropriate National Occupational Classification (NOC) code.
• • Further Your Education (Up to 250 Points)
Education is another key factor in the CRS. If you haven’t already done so, get your foreign education credentials assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). Additionally, pursuing further education, whether it’s a degree, diploma, or short course, can significantly boost your score. Canadian educational qualifications can earn you up to 50 extra points.
• • Consider Changing the Principal Applicant
If you’re applying with a spouse, sometimes switching who the principal applicant is can increase your CRS score. A partner with higher language proficiency or more advanced education could be the key to boosting your profile. Use a CRS calculator to compare both partners’ scores and determine who should be the primary applicant.
Stay Proactive and Optimistic
At any age, age will impede one's CRS score; however, there are ways you can remain competitive regardless. Focusing on improving language skills, gaining work experience, or getting a provincial nomination can greatly enhance your chances of obtaining an ITA. Pay attention to PNP streams and stay persistent--many candidates over 30 successfully immigrate every year by strategically raising their CRS scores.
Final Thoughts
Aging may affect your CRS score, but that shouldn't stop your immigration journey. By taking calculated steps, you can still recover lost points and improve your profile - each draw presents another chance to move closer to realizing your dream of moving to Canada! Stay focused and strive to enhance Express Entry profiles every step of the way!
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