Express Entry
Canada Resumes Express Entry Draws, Inviting 4,750 All-Program Candidates
In a much-awaited move, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently hit the reset button on the Express Entry draws, issuing a total of 4,750 invitations to apply (ITAs) in an all-program draw.
Let’s delve into the details of this significant development
Latest Express Entry Draw Numbers
In this latest draw, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 561 to get invited for Permanent Residency. This marks the first draw since October 26, following a short break attributed to technical glitches experienced by applicants using the Express Entry Profile Builder.
A Snapshot of Recent Draws
Before the recent all-program draw, IRCC conducted category-based selection draws, each with its unique criteria. From draws focusing on healthcare occupations, and French-speaking proficiency, to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-only draws, the variety of categories showcased Canada’s commitment to addressing specific labor market needs.
Express Entry: What is All-Program Draw?
All-program draws in Express Entry refer to invitation rounds where candidates from all three economic immigration programs – the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class – are eligible to receive invitations to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
The candidates with the highest CRS scores are then issued invitations to apply, contributing to the diversity and inclusivity of Canada’s immigration system.
History of Express Entry All-Program Draws in 2023
Here’s a table that presents a clear overview of the all-program Express Entry draws, including the date, number of invitations issued, and the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement.
| Date | Invitations to Apply (ITAs) | CRS Score Requirement |
| Oct 10 | 3,725 | 500 |
| Sept 26 | 3,000 | 504 |
| Sept 19 | 3,200 | 531 |
| Aug 15 | 4,300 | 496 |
| Aug 1 | 2,000 | 517 |
| July 11 | 800 | 505 |
| July 4 | 700 | 511 |
| June 27 | 4,300 | 486 |
| June 8 | 4,800 | 486 |
Category-Based Selection Explained
Introduced earlier this year, category-based selection draws target candidates meeting specific criteria, such as French-language proficiency or work experience in occupations like Healthcare, STEM professions, Trades, Transport, Agriculture, and agri-food. These occupations are identified as critical for Canada’s economy and address shortages in key sectors.
The push for skilled workers is critical for Canada, especially with an anticipated retirement wave of up to nine million Canadians by 2030. Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasizes the importance of admitting more skilled workers to bridge labor shortages in vital sectors.
Why Express Entry Draws Paused?
Acknowledging a recent slowdown in Express Entry draws, Deputy Immigration Minister Christiane Fox attributes it to an IT glitch during the launch of new categories. However, reassurance comes in the form of plans to make up for the numbers in future draws.
What Lies Ahead?
Amidst the Express Entry buzz, Deputy Minister Fox drops a hint about the next category-based draw for skilled trades professionals by December. This aligns with Canada’s ongoing commitment to diversifying its skilled workforce.
For those new to the Express Entry System, it’s a dynamic application management system processing permanent residence applications. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) evaluates candidates based on factors like work experience, language ability, occupation, education, and age, with the highest-scoring candidates receiving invitations to apply. As Canada resumes inviting people through Express Entry again, many are excited about the chance to become permanent residents. The different types of draws and upcoming plans show that Canada is serious about bringing in skilled workers, fixing job shortages, and creating a strong and diverse workforce.
