Canada Resumes Express Entry Draws for Canadian Experience Class

The Canadian government has reopened the Express Entry system for candidates eligible under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), issuing 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. The latest draw, held on May 31, 2024, marks the first time since September 2021 that Canada has specifically targeted CEC candidates through the Express Entry system.

With a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 522, the latest draw saw the tie-breaking rule implemented for candidates who scored the same points. The cut-off date and time for this draw was March 19, 2024, at 18:58:58 UTC.

The Canadian Experience Class is a popular immigration pathway for skilled temporary foreign workers and international students with qualifying Canadian work experience. Eligible candidates must meet the program’s requirements, including language proficiency, education, and work experience criteria.

The reopening of Express Entry for CEC candidates is seen as a positive development for many skilled workers already living and working in Canada. It provides an opportunity for them to transition from temporary to permanent resident status, allowing them to fully integrate into Canadian society and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

As of May 29, 2024, there were 224,404 profiles registered in the Express Entry pool, reflecting the high demand for permanent residency in Canada. In 2024 alone, Canada has already issued 41,955 invitations through the Express Entry system, demonstrating its commitment to attracting and retaining skilled immigrants.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has emphasized the importance of the Express Entry system in meeting Canada’s economic and labor market needs. The resumption of CEC-specific draws is expected to benefit various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and skilled trades, where Canada faces labor shortages.

Experts anticipate that the IRCC will continue to hold regular Express Entry draws, with a focus on addressing labor market demands and facilitating the transition of skilled temporary residents to permanent residency status.