Is it possible to get Canadian citizenship with Express Entry?

Canada is a dream destination for countless individuals who are in search of the most effective routes to enter the country, such as the Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program.

These two options are considered the most favorable for Canadian immigration; however, it is important to note that one cannot directly acquire Canadian citizenship through Express Entry.

Nevertheless, if you reside in Canada for more than three years, you may subsequently apply for citizenship, provided you meet the eligibility requirements, thus potentially allowing you to obtain citizenship as well.

The Express Entry program represents one of the immigration pathways to Canada, enabling foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are three federal immigration initiatives overseen by the Express Entry system.

Candidates with a high-ranking profile or score will receive an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency. After residing as a permanent resident in Canada for at least three out of five years and fulfilling all other criteria, you may apply for Canadian citizenship.

How to apply for Canada PR with Express Entry?

To qualify for the Express Entry program, you must achieve a minimum score of 67 points. Applicants can only submit a PR application in Canada upon receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Once individuals obtain an ITA, they can follow these steps:

1. Complete the online PR application form within 60 days of receiving the ITA.

2. Gather and upload all necessary documents.

3. Make the required fee payment, which includes the PR processing fee, biometric fees, and the right of permanent residence fee.

4. Submit your PR application online.

5. Await a decision on your application, which may take up to six months or less.

How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship?

You are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship only if you have maintained permanent residency in Canada for a minimum of three years.

Eligibility criteria for Canadian citizenship

• Resided in Canada for a minimum of 3 out of 5 years

• Have been filing taxes as a permanent resident for at least 3 years prior to applying for citizenship

• Meet the English and French language proficiency requirements of at least CLB Level 4

• Take the Citizenship test and pass it

• Take the Oath of Citizenship

Steps to apply for Canadian citizenship

• Obtain the available application package

• Complete the payment of the required fees

• Submit your application, ensuring that you have fulfilled the citizenship eligibility criteria, before signing the application form.

• Send the finalized application form along with the required documents to the IRCC via courier or mail.

• Await the status update regarding your citizenship grant, which may take around 7 months to be processed.

Conclusion

It is widely understood that one cannot apply for Canadian citizenship through Express Entry.

However, after applying for a Canada PR visa via one of the most effective immigration pathways, one can subsequently apply for citizenship after residing in the country for a minimum of 3 years.

To be eligible for citizenship, it is essential to satisfy the eligibility criteria. Izago Immigration is equipped to assist you in applying for Canadian citizenship, drawing on years of expertise and knowledge. Reach out today!