Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Embarking on the journey towards Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry system is an exciting yet intricate process. For many hopeful applicants, understanding the various steps involved can be daunting. However, with the right guidance and knowledge, navigating through each phase becomes manageable, leading you closer to your dream of settling in Canada.

During the first steps of the process, a candidate prepares and submits their Express Entry profile to be part of the pool of candidates. If the candidate has a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, their profile will be selected in an Express Entry draw and they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada. Receiving an ITA means that the candidate moves onto the second stage of the process.

How do I get an Invitation to Apply (ITA)?

The first step to obtaining an ITA is to submit an Express Entry profile. Following that, you will be entered into a pool of candidates and ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS is a merit-based points system that assigns a score to each candidate in the Express Entry pool.

Candidates who are highly ranked will receive an ITA and then be asked to submit an electronic Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR). 

This invitation grants the recipient the opportunity to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Click here to see the latest Express Entry draws and the CRS score needed. 

Click here to calculate your CRS score

How long does it take to receive an ITA?

IRCC regularly issues draws for Express Entry applicants. If you are highly ranked, you can expect to receive an ITA within a matter of days to a few weeks. If you are not selected right away, your profile will remain active in the Express Entry pool for 12 months.

If after several months you have not received an ITA, it might be time to look into ways you can boost your CRS score. You can consider retaking language tests or looking into provincial nomination programs. 

What happens after I get an Invitation to Apply (ITA)?

After receiving an ITA, you will be given 60 days to prepare and submit an electronic Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR) in Canada. This application is submitted through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online web portal. Applicants will be asked to scan and submit copies of all required documents. 

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