Are you a teacher dreaming of becoming a permanent resident in Canada? There’s great news for educators worldwide! Canada has introduced a new category-based Express Entry stream specifically targeting teachers and education professionals. This means you can move to Canada without paying huge agent fees—all you need is the right information and preparation.
In this guide, we will walk you through:
- The new education-based Express Entry category
- Eligibility criteria for teachers
- How to apply step by step
- How to maximize your points and boost your chances
- Common questions and answers
Let’s dive in!
Why Canada Needs More Teachers
Canada is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers in several key sectors, including education. To address this, the Canadian government has introduced a special category within the Express Entry system to fast-track teachers and education workers into the country.
If you are a teacher or have experience in education, this is the best time to apply before competition increases and CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) scores rise.
Eligible Teaching Professions for Express Entry
The new education-based category applies to five main occupations:
- Elementary and secondary school teaching assistants
- Instructors of persons with disabilities
- Early childhood educators and assistants
- Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
- Secondary school teachers
If you fall into any of these categories and meet the other Express Entry criteria, you can apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria for the Education-Based Express Entry
To qualify under this category, you need to meet six key factors:
1. Language Proficiency
- You must take an English or French language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada).
- Your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score should be at least 7 in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
- A higher score = more CRS points, improving your chances.
2. Educational Qualification
- If you studied in Canada, you automatically meet this requirement.
- If you studied outside Canada, you must get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to compare your degree with the Canadian education system.
- Your highest degree should be evaluated (e.g., Master’s or Bachelor’s degree).
- Validity of ECA: 5 years.
3. Work Experience
- You need at least 6 months of full-time continuous work experience in one of the listed occupations within the last three years.
- However, to create an Express Entry profile, you must have one year of full-time paid experience in any occupation.
4. Age
- Best age for more points: Below 29 years.
- If you are 30 and above, you will start losing points gradually.
- Younger applicants are preferred because Canada wants a younger workforce.
5. Arranged Employment in Canada
- Getting a job offer from a Canadian employer adds 50–100 CRS points.
- However, this requirement will be removed soon, making it easier to qualify without a job offer.
6. Adaptability Factors
You can earn extra points if:
- Your spouse has good language proficiency.
- You or your spouse have a sibling in Canada who is a citizen or PR.
- You have previous Canadian education or work experience.
Boosting Your CRS Score: Key Strategies
Since Express Entry is a points-based system, increasing your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score improves your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
How to Increase Your Points:
✅ Get a Provincial Nomination (PNP): Adds 600 points immediately. ✅ Improve your IELTS/CELPIP score for higher language points. ✅ Have your spouse also take the language test to boost your points. ✅ Get an additional degree or diploma to increase education points. ✅ Gain Canadian work experience if possible. ✅ Have a sibling in Canada who is a PR or citizen (adds points).
Points Breakdown: Education vs. Work Experience vs. Age
| Factor | Maximum CRS Points |
|---|---|
| Language Proficiency | 160 |
| Education | 150 |
| Work Experience | 80 |
| Age | 100 (if 29 or younger) |
| Arranged Employment | 50–100 |
| Provincial Nomination | 600 |
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
- Check Your Eligibility: Use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Calculator to see if you qualify.
- Take Your Language Test: Book and complete the IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF.
- Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Evaluate your degree through WES, ICAS, IQAS, or another designated organization.
- Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your details on the IRCC website.
- Improve Your CRS Score: Work on getting extra points before the draw.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected, submit all required documents.
- Complete Medical and Police Clearance: Ensure you meet health and security requirements.
- Submit Your Application and Wait for Approval: Processing time varies but is usually 6–8 months.
- Get Your Permanent Residency! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply without a job offer?
Yes! While a job offer helps, it is not mandatory under this new category.
2. What if my CRS score is low?
Consider improving your language test score, gaining more education, or applying for a provincial nomination to increase your score.
3. How long does the Express Entry process take?
From profile creation to PR approval, the process can take 6–12 months.
4. Can my spouse and kids come with me?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can move with you under your PR application.
5. What is the best time to apply?
Now! Since this is a new category, CRS scores may be lower at the start. Act fast before the competition increases!
Final Thoughts
The education-based Express Entry category is an excellent opportunity for teachers and education professionals to move to Canada as permanent residents. With a straightforward process, no agent fees, and high chances of success, now is the time to start your application!
Need more help? Leave your questions in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this with your teacher friends! 🎓🇨🇦
