Express Entry: 60-day invitation period

Summary#

Ministerial Instruction Amending the Ministerial Instructions Respecting the Express Entry System, 2021-1 sets how long an invitation to apply under the Express Entry system stays valid. An invitation becomes effective the day after it is issued and must be used by the 60th day after that; the change took effect on June 29, 2021.

What it does#

• Replaces section 6 of the Ministerial Instructions Respecting the Express Entry System.
• Specifies that an invitation is valid starting the day after it is issued and ending on the 60th day after that day.
• Requires that any application for a permanent resident visa submitted in response to an invitation must be made within that 60-day period.
• Comes into force on June 29, 2021.

Who's affected#

• People who receive an invitation to apply through Express Entry (candidates invited to submit a permanent residence application).
• Immigration advisers, lawyers and others who help applicants prepare Express Entry applications.
• Staff and managers handling Express Entry files at the department responsible for immigration decisions.

Why it matters#

• The rule fixes the time window applicants have to file after getting an invitation: they must complete and submit their application within 60 days.
• That changes how quickly applicants need to gather documents (medical checks, police certificates, proof of funds, etc.) and coordinate support from advisers.
• If someone does not apply within the 60-day period, their invitation will no longer be valid and they may need to wait for another invitation.