Canada’s Express Entry system is the premier pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency (PR).
It’s designed to attract top talent from across the globe, and its competitive nature means that every point in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) matters.
As age is a significant factor in the CRS, candidates start to lose points once they turn 30.
However, this doesn’t mean your dream of immigrating to Canada should be shelved if you’re over 30.
In fact, there are numerous ways to improve your CRS score even if age isn’t on your side.
From boosting language skills to leveraging Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs), this guide provides a step-by-step approach to increasing your CRS score and securing your Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada.
Basics the Express Entry System
Express Entry is Canada’s immigration selection system that processes applications for three key programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
It’s a three-step process:
- Profile Creation: You must create an Express Entry profile that details your education, work experience, language skills, and other factors.
- CRS Score cutoff in next Express Entry Draw: Once your profile is submitted, you’ll be assigned a score using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool.
- Usually every two weeks, the Canadian government conducts Express Entry draws, inviting top-scoring candidates to apply for permanent residency based on CRS score cutoff.
- Submitting full application: Individuals with profiles receiving an invitation, submit complete application to get permanent residency.
What is CRS?
The Comprehensive Ranking System is a point-based system that ranks Express Entry profiles based on core factors such as:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language skills
Why Age is Important in Express Entry?
Age plays a crucial role in your CRS score. While younger candidates in their 20s receive the highest points for age (up to 110 points), candidates begin losing points once they cross 29.
By age 45, no points are awarded for age under the CRS.
But don’t worry—if you’re over 30, you can still maximize your score in other areas to remain competitive.
CRS Age Points Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of how CRS points are distributed for age:
| Age | Points (Without Spouse) | Points (With Spouse) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-29 | 100-110 | 90-100 |
| 30 | 95 | 88 |
| 31 | 90 | 85 |
| 32 | 85 | 80 |
| 33 | 80 | 75 |
| 34 | 75 | 70 |
| 35 | 70 | 65 |
| 36 | 65 | 60 |
| 37 | 60 | 55 |
| 38 | 55 | 50 |
| 39 | 50 | 45 |
| 40 | 45 | 40 |
| 41 | 35 | 33 |
| 42 | 25 | 23 |
| 43 | 15 | 13 |
| 44 | 5 | 5 |
| 45+ | 0 | 0 |
How to Increase Your CRS Score After 30
If you’ve lost CRS points due to age, don’t panic! There are several strategies to boost your score and improve your chances of receiving an ITA.
Here are the top 6 methods:
1. Secure a Job Offer (Up to 200 CRS Points)
A job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost your CRS score, adding 50 to 200 points depending on the occupation and type of job.
While a job offer is not mandatory for Express Entry, it can give you a considerable advantage.
Certain categories, such as senior managerial positions or specialized trades, can yield higher points.
Obtaining a valid job offer is one of the most effective ways to close the gap caused by age-based point loss.
Although, there is a black market of LMIAs or job offers in Canada, but there still are employers who are willing to support their workers for permanent residency.
Mostly genuine are the ones you might already be working with, if you are already in Canada on temporary status, so talking to your employer can definitely help.
2. Enhance Your Language Proficiency (Up to 136 CRS Points)
Language proficiency in either of Canada’s official languages—English and French—accounts for a major portion of the CRS score.
To maximize your points, focus on improving all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Scoring high on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) can give you up to 136 points if you apply without a spouse, and up to 128 points if you apply with a spouse.
Additionally, proficiency in both English and French can give you a competitive edge.
Even basic French language skills can earn you an extra 50 CRS points under Canada’s bilingual bonus. If you haven’t started learning French yet, it might be time to consider it.
Key Tip:
Aim for a CLB level of 9 or higher to maximize your points. Even small improvements in your language test scores can result in substantial CRS score increases. Utilize free resources and language courses to sharpen your skills.
3. Leverage Provincial Nomination Programs (PNP) – 600 CRS Points
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is the golden ticket for Express Entry candidates.
Receiving a provincial nomination can instantly add 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.
Canadian provinces and territories operate various PNP streams tailored to meet regional labor market needs.
Many PNPs are aligned with Express Entry, making it easier for candidates to secure additional points.
Popular PNPs for Express Entry Candidates:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Most invitations annually, but can be competitive.
- Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Lowest cutoff scores, but not meant for everyone.
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP): Re
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Provinces often target specific occupations, so keep an eye on regional PNP streams to ensure your profession is in demand.
4. Change the Principal Applicant
If you’re applying as a couple, sometimes switching the primary applicant can improve your CRS score.
Compare both profiles using a CRS calculator to determine which of you has the higher score based on factors like education, language ability, and work experience.
For instance, if one partner has stronger language skills or more education, that person should be the principal applicant to maximize your CRS score.
Expert Tip:
In some cases, it might make sense to submit separate applications. Always calculate both scenarios to see which option yields the higher score.
Because of new category-based selection Express Entry draws, consider switching principal applicant if they draw for any of such categories, even if overall CRS score drops by 20-50 points depending on the category.
5. Increase Work Experience (Up to 100 CRS Points)
More work experience can positively impact your CRS score, especially if it’s Canadian work experience.
The CRS rewards both foreign and Canadian experience, but Canadian work experience adds more points to your profile.
If you’ve already completed at least one year of Canadian work, you can earn up to 100 additional points, depending on the type and length of your experience.
Also, make sure that your work experience is properly documented and fits within the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code relevant to your field.
6. Improve Your Education Credentials (Up to 250 CRS Points)
Higher education levels translate into higher CRS points. If you haven’t already, consider getting your education evaluated through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
If you can, pursue further education or add certifications to your profile.
Earning an additional degree, diploma, or even completing a short course in Canada can boost your score by a significant margin.
The Canadian education factor alone can yield up to 50 extra CRS points for those with Canadian diplomas or degrees.
How the CRS Calculator Can Help You Plan
To stay on top of your score and identify areas for improvement, it’s essential to use a CRS calculator.
This tool will help you test different scenarios—whether it’s improving language scores, adding more work experience, or gaining a job offer.
The CRS calculator allows you to make informed decisions and pinpoint the exact areas that require improvement, giving you a strategic advantage in the Express Entry pool.
Summary: Stay Positive and Persistent
Although age impacts your CRS score, it’s important to remember that there are many ways to counteract the points lost due to age.
By focusing on improving your language skills, obtaining a provincial nomination, securing a job offer, or boosting your education and work experience, you can significantly enhance your chances of receiving an ITA.
Each Express Entry draw presents a new opportunity to achieve your immigration goals.
Stay proactive and optimistic, and remember that many candidates over 30 have successfully immigrated to Canada by taking strategic steps to improve their CRS score.
What is a good CRS score in 2024?
A good CRS score in 2024 typically ranges above 505 points for general draws, but it varies significantly for category-based selections.
Can I still create an Express Entry profile if my CRS score is low?
Yes, you can still create an Express Entry profiles with a low CRS score, if you meet the basic eligibility criteria for various programs.
Explore options like PNPs, language improvements, or gaining more work experience to increase your chances.
Does having a spouse affect my CRS score?
Yes, applying with a spouse can slightly reduce your score, as the CRS awards fewer points for age, education, and work experience when a spouse is included.
When is the next Express Entry draw?
Canada typically conducts Express Entry draws every two weeks, but this may vary depending on immigration targets. Next Express Entry draw is expected this week or next week since last one was on September 17.
