Express Entry
Breaking News: First Express Entry Draw of 2024 Issued 1,510 ITAs
In a great start to the new year, the First Express Entry Draw of 2024 has just been conducted, issuing 1,510 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR). This eagerly anticipated all-program draw saw candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 546 or above receiving invitations.
Let’s delve into the details of this draw and what it means for aspiring immigrants.
First Express Entry Draw of 2024 Highlights
- Draw held on: January 10, 2024, at 16:59:13 UTC:
- Number of invitations issued: 1,510
- Rank required to be invited: 1,510 or above
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate: 546
- Tie-breaking rule: December 31, 2023, at 18:23:22 UTC
Comparing this draw to the one on December 18, 2023, the CRS cut-off score has increased by 4 points, indicating the ongoing competitiveness of the Express Entry system. However, the increase in the number of invitations is only 185.
The processing times for all three Express Entry categories as of January 9, 2024:
- Canadian Experience Class: 5 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program: 5 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry: 8 months
Draws Expectations and Targets for 2024
In the heart of Canada’s immigration system, IRCC’s aspirations for 2024 lie within the range of 90,000 to 116,000 new permanent residents via Express Entry, with 110,770 as the bullseye. As we eagerly awaited the debut of the first express entry draw of 2024, our focus sharpened on knowing what lies ahead.
Before we delve into our projections, let’s take a moment to rewind the tape and analyze the dynamic draws of 2023. A pivotal year introducing category-based rounds of invitations, IRCC’s strategic shift to “general” draws paved the way for a comprehensive approach.
With 110,266 primary applicants invited in 42 rounds, the landscape transformed, setting the stage for targeted draws in categories such as Trade, Agriculture & Agri-Food, and more.
Preview of Express Entry Draws of 2023
General Draws: 23,800 invitations across 19 draws with a CRS cutoff range of 496-561.
Francophone Draws:8,700 invitations over 6 draws with a CRS cutoff range of 375-486.
STEM Draws:6,400 invitations in 2 draw with a CRS cutoff range of 481-486
Healthcare Draws:5,600 invitations spanning 3 draws with a CRS cutoff range of 431-476
Trade Draws:2,500 invitations in 2 draw with a CRS cutoff range of 388-425
Transport Draws:1,670 invitations across 2 draws with a CRS cutoff at 435
PNP Only Draws:1,548 invitations in a single draw with a high CRS at 776
Agri-Food Draws:1,000 invitations over 2 draw with a CRS range of 354-386
Total Invitations: 51,218 | Total Draws: 37 | Cutoff Range: 354-561
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Next Express Entry CRS Score Prediction
- Trade-targeted draw – 410
- Agriculture and Agri-food – 390
- Transport targeted draw – 430
- French focused draw – 470
- STEM Targeted Draw – 478
- Healthcare Targeted Draw – 425
- Provincial Nominee Program – 740
- No Program Specified – 530+
CRS Scores in All Program vs. Category Draws – What to Expect in 2024?
For all program draws, a CRS score of 510 has become the norm, with bleak prospects for lower scores. However, those with a CRS score above 520 can anticipate invitations, especially in the initial rounds starting at 530+.On the other hand, category-based draws, Trade, and French proficiency emerge as frontrunners, backed by lower CRS cutoffs and higher chances of provincial nominations. STEM and healthcare categories, despite higher CRS cutoffs, remain promising due to increased chances of provincial nominations.
Strategic Insights for Express Entry Success in 2024
For those with a CRS score less than 510–500, making your spouse the primary applicant can be a game-changer. With strategic planning and insights into 82 eligible occupations, success becomes not just a possibility but a tangible reality. Now armed with insights into the past, a vision for the future, and strategies for success, you’re primed for the Express Entry draw of 2024. For hopefuls closely following the Express Entry Draws, we have an Express Entry Tracker where you can conveniently check the latest draw details. Stay informed about the crucial information and updates that matter for your Canadian immigration journey.
