Call us on 
English
French
Arabic
.svg "Blog read time"){kind=icon}
5 min
Have you created your Express Entry profile? Are you unhappy with your Comprehensive System Ranking (CRS) score? The good news is that there is always a way to remedy a low score. In this article, we look at six ways to improve your Canada immigration points.
Before we get into ways you can improve your CRS, though, here's a quick refresher on what exactly the Comprehensive Ranking System is.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) CRS is a system based on points that calculates how you'll rank in an Express Entry draw pool. Your Express Entry profile is looked at with a focus on your skills, credentials, employment experience, and other things. You'll earn points in each section, which make up your CRS score.
How Many CRS Points Can You Score?
You can score up to 1,200 CRS points. These are divided into Core or Human Capital Points and Additional points. If you score well, you have a better chance of being invited to apply for permanent residency.How to Get More Canada Immigration Points
There are several ways in which you can get some additional points to boost your CRS score.
Redo Your IELTS
Your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test proves your ability to speak, read, write and listen in English. Once you have created your Express Entry profile, you can retake your IELTS test as much as you want to improve your score. If you score top marks for your IELTS, you can earn a maximum of 160 points!
So, while you wait in the express entry pool, keep trying to improve your English skills. This test could be the determining factor in your immigration efforts. Also, remember Canada is a bilingual province, meaning you can get 50 more Canada immigration points for your French abilities, as proven by your TEF results.
Secure a Provincial Nomination
Receiving a Provincial Nomination (PN) will grant you a whopping 600 CRS points. If you can secure a PN, you will almost definitely be selected in the next Express Entry draw, seeing as the minimum cut-off point averages around 450. Note that the minimum score varies. The minimum score for February 15, 2023, for example, was 791. If more than one candidate gets the lowest score, the cut-off will be based on the date and time their Express Entry profiles were sent in.
Unfortunately, this is not the easiest task. You will need to stay up to date with the changing needs of all 13 provinces and territories of Canada as well as the requirements of over 50 subcategories of the Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs). Thankfully, we are here to help.
Secure a Job Offer
A job offer from a Canadian employer can make a big difference in your immigration application. If you have one, you can score up to 200 CRS points based on the type of work it is. It is also an essential requirement for several PNPs, so you will genuinely benefit.
Arranged employment for TEER 0 Major group 00 gets you 200 points, while arranged employment for NOC TEER 1, 2 or 3, or any TEER 0 other than Major group 00 will get you 50 points.
Our advice: Start job-hunting as soon as you can. If you need help figuring out where to start your search, don't worry. Canada has several resources at your disposal, like the Canadian Job Bank. Sign up for the job bank to get into contact with hundreds of Canadian employers looking for skilled workers like you. Other similar services you might find of use are LinkedIn, Indeed.ca and Talent.ca.
Continue Tertiary Education
Canada values education. For this reason, they like to reward those who have studied hard. If you have a degree or other tertiary qualification that requires three years of study, you can get up to 140 CRS points. In addition, post-secondary education in Canada can get you 30 points.
Another top tip is to continue your tertiary education in Canada with a Study Visa. Not only will you earn points for your qualifications, but you will also be able to gain valuable Canadian work experience that could eventually help you secure a job offer.
Learn How Spousal Points Work
If you want to immigrate with your spouse or common-law partner, you can earn additional CRS points, but it is not as simple as that. Listing them in your application can also negatively impact your points if they do not have a high CRS human capital score.
In other words, if your significant other has a lot of work experience, a high IELTS score and great qualifications, they can boost your CRS. This is because Canada will reserve a few possible CRS points you can score to your spouse if you include them as a second applicant. If they do not have a high human capital, those points will still be reserved for them, but they will earn less of them, ultimately bringing down your total CRS score.
Canada Immigration Points From Your Siblings
This is the most basic tip on our list, yet not many people know this! If you have a brother or sister who is a Canadian citizen, or if they are living in the country as a permanent resident, you can earn an additional 15 CRS points.
This brother or sister doesn't have to be related to you through blood. They can be your adopted sibling or your brother or sister-in-law, so mention them in your Express Entry profile.
An Update on Express Entry and CRS Scores
According to Canada's Immigration minister, Sean Fraser, the IRCC will change Canada's Express Entry System this year. Bill C-19, released in June 2022, states that Express Entry draws will target applicants based on their possible contribution to Canada's economy. This transition will move from solely using CRS scores to draws that will also look at candidates who bring in the best skills to fill the country's labour gaps.
Time to Score Those CRS Points
Following these 6 tips will certainly improve your Canada immigration points. So, make sure you pursue every opportunity to maximize your score. However, the best way to improve your application is with the help of a professional team. Our skilled RCICs are standing by to make your Canadian Immigration process a smooth as possible.
FAQS
I Work in Canada on a Canadian Work Permit. Will This be Seen as a Valid Job Offer?
No, a work permit is not a job offer.
Why do I Need to Take a Language Test For Express Entry?
Canada measures everyone's ability according to the same standards. This is why every candidate must take a standard examination facilitated by an objective third party - even if you are from an English-speaking or French-speaking country.
How Can I do Better at the IELTS Test?
Consider taking an IELTS practice test. Our IELTS preparation course, which was designed by Conley University, is ideal for getting ready to ace your IELTS exam.
