Express Entry is a Permanent Immigration program for Skilled candidates. This program is started on Jan 01, 2015. This program came into existence because of huge backlog for Permanent Immigration in Canada. Basically Candidates will be assessed on their:

• Language Ability
• Arranged Employment
• Education

Express Entry consists of two basic steps:

• Creation of online profile which includes language testing results, Experience and Education, and on the basis of the credentials, candidates will be given points.
• Based on the points given, highest points Holders will be drawn and CIC will send them invitation to apply (ITA). The selected candidates will be eligible to apply and the file will be processed in Six months or less. 

If you want to apply for Express Entry, you must fall in any of the following streams:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class
   

Provincial Nominee Candidates: 

If you have applied under Provincial Nominee stream then you need to wait for approval, after getting ‘Nominated’ you can apply in Express Entry.