Express Entry
Breaking Down Canada’s 2022 Annual Express Entry Report: What You Need to Know
Canada’s Express Entry System stands as a pivotal pillar of the nation’s immigration strategy. It provides a straightforward and effective avenue for talented individuals worldwide to pursue permanent residency. Recently, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled the 2022 annual Express Entry report. Here’re the key takeaways from this report.
Express Entry in 2022: A Year of Records and Changes
Profile Submissions
In 2022, 428,391 Express Entry profiles were submitted, showing a 3% decrease from 2021 but a notable 19% increase from 2020. Impressively, 74% of these profiles were eligible for at least one Express Entry-managed immigration program.
Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
The year 2022 witnessed Canada breaking records by issuing an all-time high of 166,745 ITAs for permanent residency through the Express Entry system. This remarkable figure surpassed the 2021 record of 155,107 ITAs.
Express Entry Draws
In 2022, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted 24 Express Entry draws, resulting in 46,539 ITAs. This represented a 59% decrease from the previous year, largely due to temporary pauses in Federal High Skilled immigration programs.
Gender and Age Trends
Men dominated profile submissions at 56%, while women accounted for 44%. It’s worth noting that while the proportion of eligible profiles for men (71%) remained stable, women saw an increase to 78%. Regarding ITAs, men received 58%, with the largest group being those aged 20-29, making up 50% of invitees. Notably, those aged 30-34 saw a significant increase in invitations (29%) compared to the previous year (19%).
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Scoring
CRS scores mainly clustered between 301-500 in 2022, despite a slight profile reduction. Extra points for Canadian education, French proficiency, or Canadian siblings diversified eligible candidates. Additional points played a pivotal role, with men benefiting from Arranged Employment points (65%) and women securing higher scores through French language proficiency.
Education Level and ITAs
Education played a significant role in the distribution of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in 2022. A substantial 46% of ITAs were granted to candidates holding master’s or professional degrees.
Language Proficiency Matters
Language proficiency, particularly in English and French, was a vital factor in Express Entry’s success. Candidates with strong language skills at CLB/NCLC 9 secured 15,587 ITAs. Proficiency in these languages is instrumental for seamless integration into the Canadian labor market and society.
Canadian and Foreign Work Experience
The majority of ITA recipients had one year of Canadian work experience (41%). In terms of foreign work experience, the highest percentage of ITAs (35%) went to candidates with 5 or more years, while 27% had one year or less.
Primary Occupations
In 2022, Express Entry primarily targeted skilled workers, with over 89% of ITAs issued to candidates from key programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class. Technology-related roles dominated, including software engineers, information systems specialists, and computer systems developers. Additionally, food service supervisors and cooks were among top choices.
Country of Residence, Citizenship, and Settlement
The system’s strength lies in its ability to attract candidates from diverse backgrounds. In 2022, India, Nigeria, and the Philippines emerged as top source countries. In terms of residence, most ITA recipients (31,486) in 2022 resided in Canada. Among citizens, India led with 20,769, followed by Algeria (2,909) and China (2,456). While Ontario (48%), British Columbia (20%), and Alberta (12%) remained popular choices for settlement among Express Entry applicants.
Processing Times
Processing times increased in 2022, with FSTP applications experiencing the most significant jump (63 months). CEC applications took 19 months, FSWP applications 29 months, and PNP applications 13 months.
Express Entry System: A Key to Canada’s Immigration
In 2022, Express Entry continued as a vital path for skilled immigrants. Despite decreased ITAs, the system remains crucial. Future strategies like category-based draws target labor market needs, upholding Canada as a top immigrant destination. In 2023, 11,900 ITAs have already been issued, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to global talent acquisition for national prosperity.
