What Is ECA & Why Is It Required for Canada Immigration?
When I started helping people with their Canada immigration journey, I noticed one thing again and again — most people are confused about ECA.
Some think it’s just another “formality.”
Some believe they can skip it.
Some even apply through the wrong organization and waste months.
So today, let me break it down for you in the simplest way possible.
What Exactly Is an ECA?
In simple words, ECA is a verification of your education done by an organization approved by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
It tells the Canadian government:
- Is your degree real?
- Is it valid?
- What is your degree equal to in Canada?
For example, your Indian Bachelor’s degree might be equivalent to a Canadian Bachelor’s, or your Master’s might be equal to a Canadian Master’s and so on.
This evaluation matters because Canada wants to ensure your education meets their standards before giving you immigration points.
Why Is ECA Required for Canada Immigration?
If you’re applying through Express Entry, Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, PNP, or even the Atlantic Immigration Program, your ECA plays a major role in your immigration points.
Here’s why ECA is required:
To Prove Your Education to Canada
Canada doesn’t automatically understand what a foreign degree means. ECA helps them translate your education into Canadian equivalency.
To Increase Your CRS Score
Your Express Entry CRS score increases based on your education level.
Without ECA?
Your foreign degree holds zero value in the points system.
To Confirm You Meet Eligibility Requirements
Some pathways require a minimum education level. ECA confirms whether your qualification meets that requirement.
To Strengthen Your PR Profile
A correct ECA can significantly push your CRS score higher, especially if:
- You have more than one degree
- You have a Master’s
- You have a diploma + degree combination
To Avoid Application Rejection
Submitting the wrong ECA type, wrong organization, or incorrect documents can delay or completely reject your application. A proper ECA ensures your PR process runs smoothly.
Which ECA Organizations Are Approved by IRCC?
IRCC accepts ECA reports only from these designated bodies:
- WES (World Education Services)
- IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service)
- ICES (International Credential Evaluation Service)
- CES (Comparative Education Service)
- ICAS (International Credential Assessment Service of Canada)
- MCC (for doctors)
- PEBC (for pharmacists)
Choosing the right organization matters — different agencies have different processing times, rules, and costs. If you’re confused about which one to select, I’ll gladly guide you.
How Long Is an ECA Valid?
An ECA is generally valid for 5 years from the date of issue. But here’s the part most people don’t realize, the validity isn’t just for the document itself; it’s tied to your Express Entry profile. As long as your ECA is valid on the day you submit your PR application, you’re safe.
Another important thing: if your ECA expires while your application is already in process, there is no problem at all — IRCC will still accept it. However, if your ECA expires before you create or update your Express Entry profile, you’ll need to get a new one.
So the best tip is: plan your profile submission within the 5-year validity window to avoid delays or extra costs.
What Documents Do You Need for ECA?
Varies slightly by agency, but generally:
- Degree certificate
- Final mark sheets
- University-sealed transcripts
- Identity proof
- Name change proof (if needed)
How ECA Impacts Your CRS Score
| Education Level | CRS Points (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Without ECA | 0 |
| Bachelor’s + ECA | 120–135 |
| Master’s + ECA | 135–150 |
| Two or more degrees + ECA | 128–140+ |
This is why many applicants see a big jump in their CRS score after completing their ECA.
Closing Thoughts
ECA is not just a document — it is the foundation of your Canada PR journey.
If your ECA is strong, your PR profile becomes strong.
If your ECA is incorrect, your entire immigration plan can get delayed.
So always treat your ECA with seriousness and attention.
Need Help With Your ECA?
Let Me Guide You Personally.
If you want:
✔️ ECA without confusion
✔️ Proper document guidance
✔️ Choosing the right ECA body
✔️ Faster approval without mistakes
✔️ Complete support from start to finish
I’m here to help.
👉 Click the Contact Button Below or WhatsApp Me Directly
Let’s get your Canada journey started, with confidence and clarity.