Express Entry
Express Entry Draw #321 Issued 1,800 ITAs to Skilled Trade Workers
Canada continues to welcome skilled professionals through its Express Entry program, targeting various industries to fill key labor shortages. On October 23, 2024, Express Entry Draw #321 was conducted, focusing on candidates in trade occupations. This draw issued 1,800 invitations to apply (ITAs), with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 433. It marks another important step in Canada’s efforts to attract skilled trade workers to help drive economic growth.
Express Entry Draw #321 Highlights
The latest Express Entry draw was exclusively for trade professionals, making it the second trade-specific draw of 2024. Candidates with specialized skills under select National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes were invited. These draws provide a valuable opportunity for trade professionals to gain permanent residency, especially as CRS scores in category-based draws tend to be lower than general draws.
1,800 ITAs were issued specifically for trade occupations.
The minimum CRS score was 433, significantly lower than other program-specific draws in 2024.
Key sectors like construction, industrial mechanics, and electrical work were invited.
Notable NOC Codes in the Draw
Carpenters (NOC 72310)
Electricians (except industrial and power systems) (NOC 72200)
Elevator constructors and mechanics (NOC 72406)
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400)
Who Qualifies for the Trade Occupations Draw?
Eligibility for this draw required candidates to meet specific criteria set by the Canadian government. The main conditions included:
At least 6 months of continuous, full-time work experience in one of the designated trade occupations under the 2021 NOC system.
Work experience could have been obtained in Canada or abroad.
Candidates had to meet other requirements specified in the draw’s invitation round.
What’s Next for Express Entry in 2024?
The Express Entry system manages applications for three major immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). As part of its evolution, Express Entry now incorporates more category-based draws, focusing on sectors like healthcare, technology, and trades. This shift is crucial for balancing labor supply and demand across the country.
Types of Express Entry Draws in 2024
General draws: Invite top-ranking candidates from all three programs.
Program-specific draws: Target a specific program, such as the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Category-based draws: Focus on specific sectors, like trade occupations or healthcare professionals.
Why Trade Workers Should Apply through Express Entry
The demand for skilled tradespeople in Canada is on the rise, particularly as the country continues investing heavily in infrastructure and manufacturing. The trade occupation stream within Express Entry offers skilled professionals a unique opportunity to secure permanent residency with lower CRS scores and a clear pathway to success in Canada.
The latest Express Entry Draw #321 highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled trade professionals through targeted, category-based draws. With 1,800 ITAs issued and a lower CRS score of 433, this draw provides trade workers with an excellent opportunity to secure permanent residency and contribute to Canada’s growing economy. If you’re a skilled trade worker looking for opportunities, now is the perfect time to consider immigrating through Canada’s Express Entry system.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming draws and how you can make Canada your new home!
