Canada is one of the most popular destinations for immigrants from all over the world. The country is known for its high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, and diverse culture. In a recent survey conducted by Gallup (a global analytics and advice firm), participants chose Canada as one of their most preferred destinations to migrate. The government of Canada has set up various criteria that applicants need to meet in order to be considered for immigration. One of the factors that determine an applicant’s eligibility is their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of CRS score in Canadian immigration.

What is Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score?

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based system that is used to select candidates for Canadian permanent residency through the Express Entry selection system that is owned and managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It evaluates various factors, such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, adaptability, etc., to assign a score to each applicant. The maximum CRS score a candidate can obtain is 1,200 points. Higher the score, the better the chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

How is CRS Related to Express Entry (EE)?

Your CRS Score is directly related to the Express Entry (EE) selection system, which is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage and process applications for permanent residency from skilled workers who want to move to Canada. The CRS score is the primary method used to rank and select candidates who apply through an Express Entry aligned immigration program. Once a candidate creates an Express Entry profile, they are awarded a CRS score based on various factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability.

Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts Express Entry draws in which they invite highest ranking candidates for permanent residency. This ranking is based on their CRS score. Candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) can then submit a complete application for permanent residency to the government of Canada within the specified time frame. In Federal immigration programs, the CRS score plays a significant role in determining whether an applicant will be invited to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. But when it comes to Provincial immigration programs or PNPs, various other factors also play crucial rule, for instance your preferred destination, whether your NOC is in the province’s in-demand list, etc.

Read this article to understand how the new NOC version has improved the Express Entry selection system.

What are the different assessment areas in CRS?

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) has 4 sections that are used to evaluate and rank potential candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and other factors. They are:

• Core human capital factors: This section assesses factors such as your age, education, language proficiency, and work experience, which are considered the most important factors for determining your CRS score.
• Spouse or common-law partner factors: Candidates who are married or in a common-law relationship can earn additional points based on their spouse’s education, language proficiency, and work experience.
• Skill transferability factors: This section includes factors such as education, work experience, and language proficiency, which are used to determine how easily a candidate’s skills can be transferred to the Canadian labor market.
• Additional points: Candidates can earn additional points for factors such as having a valid job offer or a provincial nomination, which can significantly increase their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

How Can I Improve My CRS Score?

Here are some ways to improve your CRS score:

• Improve your language proficiency: language proficiency plays a key role in determining your CRS score. Consider taking language classes or courses to improve your language skills in English and/or French. Contact us if you need in-person IELTS/CELPIP training.
• Obtain additional education: having a higher level of education can significantly increase your CRS score. Consider obtaining additional degrees, diplomas, or certifications to improve your CRS score.
• Gain more work experience: work experience is another important factor that determines your CRS score. Try to gain more work experience in your field and consider obtaining a job offer from a Canadian employer. We can help you here!
• Get a provincial nomination: Getting a nomination certificate from a Canadian province can significantly increase your CRS score. Consider applying for provincial nomination programs that match your skills and experience. Check if you are eligible for a provincial nomination.
• Improve your spouse’s qualifications: If you are married or in a common-law relationship, improving your spouse’s education and language proficiency can also help improve your CRS score.
• Reassess your Express Entry profile: Reassess your Express Entry profile to ensure that all your information is accurate and up to date. Consider updating your profile to reflect any changes to your language proficiency, work experience, or education.

By taking some of these steps, you can improve your CRS score and increase your chances of being selected.

Contact us today to know if you qualify to migrate to Canada. Check out Owlspriority Immigration’s Canada Settlement Resources to learn about finding employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.