Top Mistakes Applicants Make in Express Entry

Top Mistakes Applicants Make in Express Entry – And How to Avoid Them

The Express Entry system is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to immigrate to Canada — but even small errors can lead to delays, rejections, or missed opportunities.
Every week, thousands of profiles are refused or found ineligible simply because of incomplete documents, incorrect information, or avoidable oversights.

If you’re preparing your Express Entry profile or PR application, learning from others’ mistakes can help you save time and maximize your chances of success.

Here are the most common mistakes Express Entry applicants make — and how to avoid them.

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information in the Profile

This is the single biggest reason for profile ineligibility.
Applicants often rush through their Express Entry profile and make small but serious errors — such as wrong NOC codes, missing employment dates, or incorrect education levels.

How to avoid it:

• Review every section carefully before submitting.
• Double-check your NOC (TEER) code — it must match your actual job duties, not just your job title.
• Keep your employment, education, and language details consistent with your supporting documents.

2. Choosing the Wrong NOC Code

Many applicants assume that their job title automatically matches a particular NOC code. In reality, IRCC evaluates based on job duties, not titles.
If your NOC code doesn’t accurately represent your responsibilities, your work experience may not count as valid skilled work.

How to avoid it:

• Review the official NOC 2021 job descriptions on the Government of Canada website.
• Select the code that best matches at least 70–80% of your actual duties.
• Avoid overclaiming senior or managerial titles if your duties don’t reflect them.

3. Misunderstanding Proof of Funds Requirements

Applicants often underestimate how important proof of funds is — or mistakenly assume it’s not required if they’re already in Canada.
Unless you qualify under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or have a valid job offer with an LMIA exemption, you must show sufficient settlement funds.

How to avoid it:

• Check the current proof of funds requirement on IRCC’s website (it changes annually).
• Ensure your funds are in your name (or your spouse’s), readily available, and maintained over several months.
• Avoid borrowing money or using temporary deposits.

4. Not Updating the Express Entry Profile Regularly

Many candidates create their profile once and forget about it.
If you gain more work experience, finish a new degree, or improve your language score, failing to update your profile can cost you valuable CRS points.

How to avoid it:

• Update your profile whenever your situation changes.
• Re-submit immediately if new documents (such as ECAs or test scores) are added.
• Keep your Express Entry profile active and valid — it expires after 12 months.

5. Submitting an Incomplete PR Application After Receiving an ITA

Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) doesn’t mean your PR is guaranteed.
Applicants often miss uploading key documents such as reference letters, police certificates, or medicals — leading to refusals.

How to avoid it:

• Start collecting documents before you receive an ITA.
• Follow IRCC’s document checklist precisely.
• Review everything for completeness and clarity before submission.

6. Ignoring Language Test Validity

Language test results are valid for two years from the date of issue.
Many applicants don’t realize their scores might expire before IRCC processes their application.

How to avoid it:

• Track your test expiry date carefully.
• Retake your test before it expires, if necessary.
• Upload the latest valid results with your application.

7. Assuming Job Offers Automatically Add CRS Points

Until early 2025, LMIA-supported job offers used to provide CRS points — but IRCC has removed this benefit.
A job offer can still help your overall application but no longer adds CRS points directly.

How to avoid it:

• Focus on other score-boosting factors such as language, education, or PNP nominations.
• If you have a valid offer, mention it accurately but don’t rely on it for CRS improvement.

8. Not Considering the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Many applicants focus solely on Express Entry and overlook provincial programs that could dramatically improve their chances.
A single nomination from a province adds 600 CRS points and practically guarantees an ITA.

How to avoid it:

• Research which provinces are currently inviting applicants in your field.
• Create a profile in both Express Entry and relevant PNP portals (e.g., BC PNP, OINP).
• Stay updated on draw results and in-demand occupation lists.

9. Submitting Without Professional Review

Immigration applications are detail-sensitive. Even one small error — like a date mismatch or unclear document — can trigger a refusal.
Having a licensed immigration consultant review your file can prevent these costly mistakes.

How to avoid it:

• Seek guidance from a regulated immigration professional before submitting your application.
• They can help identify issues, recommend corrections, and ensure compliance with IRCC’s current policies.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can reach us directly through our Contact Us page for a complete profile review.