ECA For Express Entry- Complete Guide In 2026

When applying for permanent residency (PR) through Canada’s Express Entry system, every point counts especially those awarded for your education. An ECA evaluates your foreign education and confirms its equivalency to Canadian standards, enabling you to earn valuable education points in your Express Entry profile.

In this guide, we’ll explain what an ECA for Express Entry is, how to apply, processing time, fees and how Evas Global can help you to complete the process smoothly and accurately.

What Is ECA for Express Entry?

An ECA for Express Entry (Educational Credential Assessment) is a report that confirms your foreign degree, diploma is equivalent to a Canadian educational credential.

It is required for candidates applying under:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (if claiming education points)
• Some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

If you have completed your education outside Canada, you must obtain an ECA to claim Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.

Why Is ECA Important for Express Entry?

The Express Entry system ranks candidates using the CRS score. Education is one of the key scoring factors. Without an ECA for Express Entry you cannot claim points for foreign education, CRS score will be lower and your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) decrease. Simply put, your ECA can significantly impact your immigration outcome.

Who Needs An ECA For Express Entry?

You need an ECA if your highest education was completed outside Canada. You want to claim CRS points for foreign education and apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program. If you have completed education in Canada and you are not claiming foreign education points there is no need for an ECA.

Approved Organizations For ECA For Express Entry

The Canadian government authorizes designated organizations to issue ECAs.

• World Education Services (WES)
• International Credential Assessment Services (ICAS) 
• Comparative Education Services (CES) 
• International Qualification Assessment Services (IQAS)

WES is commonly chosen due to relatively faster processing times.

How To Apply ECA for Express Entry?

Step 1: Choose a Designated Organization

Select an approved organization such as WES.

Step 2: Create an Online Account

Register and select the correct option: ECA for Immigration (IRCC).

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Typically required:

• Degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Identity documents
  

Transcripts must usually be sent directly by your university as per guidelines.

Step 4: Credential Evaluation

The organization reviews and verifies your documents.

Step 5: Receive Your ECA Report

You receive:

• An official report
• An ECA reference number for your Express Entry profile
  

Processing Time for ECA for Express Entry

Processing time depends on the organization selected. And how quickly your university sends documents and document accuracy. WES usually takes a few weeks after document receipt, other organizations may take longer and the delays are usually caused by incorrect documentation.

Fees for ECA for Express Entry

Fees vary depending on the organization but typically include:

• Evaluation fees
• Delivery charges
• Additional copies (optional)

Costs may increase if expedited services are chosen.

Validity of ECA for Express Entry

An ECA for Express Entry is valid for five years from the date of issue. Make sure your report remains valid when submitting your Express Entry profile and receiving your ITA.

How Evas Global Can Help You?

Applying for an ECA for Express Entry may seem straightforward, but small mistakes can cause major delays. Evas Global provides structured support to ensure your application is accurate and complete.

• Choosing the right ECA organization
• Profile setup assistance
• Document preparation guidance
• University transcript coordination
• Application review before submission
• Tracking and follow-up

Why Choose Evas Global?

• Expert documentation support
• Reduced risk of rejection
• Faster processing through proper submission
• Personalized consultation
  

With professional guidance, you avoid confusion and improve your chances of a smooth immigration process.

Conclusion

An ECA for Express Entry is an inevitable step in your Canadian immigration journey. It determines whether your education is equivalent and significantly impacts your CRS score. Planning properly, accurate documentation and early application can improve your chances of success. If you want a smooth, stress-free process, professional support from Evas Global can guide you in every step of the way ensuring your ECA is completed correctly and efficiently.

FAQs

1. Is ECA mandatory for Express Entry?

Yes, if you completed your education outside Canada and want to claim education points under Express Entry.

2. How long is an ECA valid?

An ECA is valid for five years from the date it is issued.

3. Can I use my ECA for multiple Express Entry applications?

Yes, as long as it is valid (within five years), you can use it for future applications.

4. Which organization is best for ECA for Express Entry?

Many applicants choose WES due to faster processing times, but other approved organizations are equally valid.

5. Do I need ECA for each degree?

You only need an ECA for the highest degree you want to claim points for. However, evaluating multiple degrees may increase CRS points in some cases.

6. What happens if my ECA says my degree is not equivalent?

If your degree is not equivalent to a Canadian credential, your CRS score may decrease. You may consider evaluating another credential or improving other CRS factors.

7. Can I apply for Express Entry without ECA?

You can create a profile, but you cannot claim foreign education points without entering a valid ECA number.

8. How can Evas Global help with ECA delays?

Evas Global ensures correct documentation submission, proper organization selection, and continuous tracking reducing the chances of delays.