Understanding the Express Entry Tie-Breaking Rule: A Key to Securing Canadian Permanent Residency
The tie-breaking rule is a pivotal aspect of Canada’s Express Entry system, playing a crucial role in determining which candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency (PR). This rule becomes significant when multiple candidates achieve the same Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
How the Tie-Breaking Rule Works
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts regular Express Entry draws, inviting a specific number of high-ranking candidates to apply for PR. To participate, candidates must have submitted their Express Entry profile and been assigned a CRS score based on various factors, including age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
For instance, if IRCC sets a draw quota of 3,000 ITAs, the top 3,000 candidates with the highest CRS scores will receive invitations. However, when candidates have identical CRS scores at the cut-off, the tie-breaking rule is used.
This rule prioritizes candidates based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profile. Profiles that have been in the pool longer take precedence over newer submissions.
Example:
Imagine two candidates, Lara and Jean, both with a CRS score of 542:
- Lara submitted her profile on September 18, 2024.
- Jean submitted his profile on September 20, 2024.
In a November 2024 draw, the CRS cut-off is 542. The tie-breaking rule applies, favouring Lara because her profile was submitted earlier. Jean remains in the pool and will still have a chance in subsequent draws.
Why the Tie-Breaking Rule is Crucial
With the Express Entry pool growing steadily, the likelihood of candidates sharing the same CRS score has increased significantly. The tie-breaking rule ensures a fair selection process, prioritising those who entered the pool earlier.
What Happens When You Update Your Profile?
Updating your Express Entry profile does not affect its original timestamp. However, if you delete your profile and submit a new one, the timestamp resets to the new submission date.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s online immigration system for managing skilled workers’ applications for permanent residency. It encompasses three key programs:
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Eligible candidates are ranked using the CRS, and the highest-scoring individuals are invited to apply for PR during routine draws.
