Five Years Later: Is Canada’s Express Entry immigration system living up to expectations?

The launch of the Express Entry system in January 2015 marked a significant departure from Canada’s previous approach to managing applications to its main Economic Class immigration programs. This approach meant that all candidates were guaranteed to have their applications reviewed, and those that met the requirements received permanent residence — provided they passed an admissibility check (for health, security, and criminality).

Old framework excessively moderate

In spite of the fact that the main come, first-served approach gave sureness to candidates who could tick all the cases, it additionally had significant inadequacies.

Applications consistently dwarfed the accessible changeless living arrangement spots, making noteworthy accumulations that extended into years and left up-and-comers and their families in limbo.

These defers likewise left Canada confronting the likelihood that the individuals who in the long run increased changeless habitation never again addressed the issues of Canada's work showcase. A 44-year-old information examiner may have been sought after when the individual applied, however after six years this may not be the situation and, presently 50, they had a littler window to coordinate into the work advertise.

Stronger labour market integration

While it’s early to tell if Express Entry has led to better economic outcomes for immigrants, there is a strong chance that immigrants will in fact fare better due to the way Express Entry awards points.

Candidates who are young, have high levels of education and English and/or French proficiency, and have Canadian experience (e.g., as foreign workers or international students) can achieve a higher CRS.

Moreover, candidates with a job offer or a provincial nomination are awarded additional points (600 for a provincial nomination), as are candidates with siblings in Canada.

All of this makes sense, as federal government research shows candidates with high human capital integrate quickly into the economy, as do those with Canadian experience. Research also shows having a job offer, being nominated by a province, and/or having family in Canada expedites the economic integration process.

Two-tier system

Express Entry does have its limitations, namely its creation of a two-tier application management system across Canada.Those who apply through Express Entry can obtain permanent residence within six months, while those who apply under other federal programs that are not covered by Express Entry, as well as those who apply to Quebec, must often wait an appreciably longer period.

Express Entry meeting expectations

Overall, Express Entry’s strengths overshadow its limitations and the system is meeting expectations.

The federal government has also demonstrated policy flexibility since January 2015 by introducing reforms to Express Entry that reflect stakeholder feedback. For instance, the view that Express Entry was not giving enough preference to international students led to changes whereby international students are now awarded up to 30 additional points under the CRS.

These changes are a reminder that, even after five years, Express Entry is a work in progress and the federal government will continue to identify ways to recalibrate and improve