How to Apply for Canada Express Entry from Dubai?

Surya Rathee
[Published 11 Apr, 2025 | 10:48 AM]
About Author - 5 min read
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Canada continues to be one of the top choices for skilled professionals around the world, including residents of Dubai. The Express Entry system is Canada’s most popular and fastest way to get permanent residency (PR). If you are living in Dubai and planning to move to Canada in 2025, this blog will guide you step-by-step on how to apply through Express Entry.

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STEP 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, check if you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Program:

• Age: Ideally between 18-35 years.
• Education: Minimum secondary school (high school) completion - higher education gives more points.
• Work Experience: At least 1 year of continuous full-time work experience in a skilled occupation (as per Canada’s NOC list).
• Language Ability: You must take an approved language test (IELTS or CELPIP for English; TEF for French).
• Proof of Funds: Show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after arriving in Canada.

Step 2: Take a Language Test

Language proficiency is a key requirement. Most applicants in Dubai choose to take the IELTS General Training exam. You should aim for a minimum score of CLB 7 (which is equal to at least 6.0 bands in each section of IELTS). Higher scores will give you more CRS points, so it’s important to prepare well for the exam. You can also choose to take the CELPIP or TEF if you're more comfortable with them.

Step 3: Get Your Educational Credentials Assessed (ECA)

If your education was completed outside Canada, you must get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). This is done through approved organizations like WES (World Education Services), ICES, or IQAS. The ECA confirms that your degree or diploma is equivalent to a Canadian standard. This is an important step because it adds valuable points to your CRS score.

Step 4: Create Your Express Entry Profile

Once you have your language test results and ECA report, you’re ready to create your Express Entry profile. You’ll need to provide details about your education, work experience, language test scores, and other personal information. After you submit your profile, you’ll receive a CRS score. This score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool. You will remain in the pool for up to 12 months or until you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 5: Enter the Express Entry Pool

After submitting your profile, you officially enter the Express Entry pool. The Canadian government conducts regular draws (usually every two weeks) and selects candidates with the highest CRS scores. If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cutoff, you will receive an invitation to apply for Canada PR.

Step 6: Gather All Required Documents

If you receive an ITA, you’ll have 60 days to submit all required documents:

• Passport copy
• Language test results
• ECA report
• Work experience letters
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
• Medical Exam Results
• Proof of Funds
• Photographs
• Marriage or birth certificates (if applying with family)

Make sure your documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 7: Submit Your Application

With all your documents ready, you can now submit your application online through the IRCC portal. You will also need to pay the required application fee. As of 2025, the fee for an adult applicant is approximately CAD 1,365 (about AED 3,700). After submission, IRCC will review your documents and conduct background checks.

Step 8: Complete Biometrics and Wait for a Decision

You’ll be asked to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dubai to give your biometrics - fingerprints and a photograph. IRCC may also request additional documents during the process. Once everything is complete, your application will be processed. Most Express Entry PR applications are finalized within six months from the date of submission.

Step 9: Receive Confirmation and Prepare to Move

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a PR visa in your passport.

Check Your Eligibility Now!

Tips to Improve Your CRS Score from Dubai

If your CRS score is low, here are some ways to increase it:

• Retake the IELTS and aim for higher scores
• Gain more work experience
• Get a Canadian job offer supported by an LMIA
• Apply through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for 600 extra points
• Improve education (another diploma or degree can help)
• Learn French to earn extra language points

Applying for Canada Express Entry from Dubai in 2025 may seem complex, but with the right guidance, it’s very manageable. Thousands of professionals in Dubai have successfully moved to Canada using this pathway. Prepare your documents, meet the requirements, and apply confidently.

If you need expert help, consider working with a trusted Canadian immigration consultant in UAE to make the process smoother and increase your chances of success.

Read more:- 8 Tips To Increase Your CRS Score