Express Entry
New Canada Express Entry Draw: 1,980 ITAs Issued with a CRS Score of 524
In the latest Express Entry draw held by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on March 25, 2024, a total of 1,980 invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 524 or above. This draw marked the 12th round of invitations under Express Entry for the year 2024.
Express Entry #290 Draw Highlights
| Description | March 25, 2024 |
| Draw type | General |
| Invitations | 1,980 |
| CRS Cutoff | 524 |
| Tie-breaking rule | February 25, 2024, at 14:42:38 UTC |
Additionally, on March 13, 2024, Canada announced the first targeted Express Entry draw of the year, specifically aimed at candidates with experience in transport-related occupations. A total of 975 ITAs were issued to candidates with a CRS score of 430 or above and a minimum of 6 months of experience in one of the designated transport occupations.
Before this, on March 12, 2024, IRCC conducted a general draw, inviting 2,850 candidates with a CRS score of 525 or above to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
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Next Express Entry Draws Prediction 2024
With IRCC’s focus shifting towards targeted draws in 2024, it is anticipated that the CRS cutoff score will remain on the higher side, typically exceeding 520 for general or all program rounds of invitations. Moreover, it is expected that draws targeting specific categories, such as French-speaking candidates, will become more frequent.
In the upcoming draws, minimum CRS scores are predicted to be lower for certain categories, including Francophones, as well as for occupations in agriculture, transport, and trade. However, profiles with CRS scores below 520 may face challenges in general draws unless IRCC conducts a larger draw.
Candidates with CRS scores below 520 are advised to enhance their profiles by obtaining certification, improving language proficiency, gaining additional work experience, and other relevant measures.
It is anticipated that IRCC will continue to conduct both category-based and general draws throughout the year, with an emphasis on maintaining a balance between various occupation sectors and skill sets.
Express Entry’s Current Processing Time
As of March 12, 2024, the current processing times for different categories under the Express Entry system are as follows:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 5 months
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): 6 months
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Not updated by IRCC since March 1
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry: 7 months
Canada to Resume CEC Express Entry Draws
Recent commentary by Minister Miller has brought optimism to international graduates and work permit holders awaiting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw. The absence of CEC draws since 2021 has been a concern for individuals with Canadian work experience seeking permanent residency.
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a vital pathway to permanent residency for temporary residents in Canada who possess at least one year of skilled work experience within the country in the past three years. Historically, CEC draws were conducted regularly, providing an advantage to candidates with Canadian work experience over skilled workers outside Canada.
Looking Ahead
As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies and selection criteria, candidates need to stay informed and proactive in their immigration journey. The Express Entry system remains a key avenue for skilled professionals and international graduates to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
For the latest updates and insights on Canada’s Express Entry draws and immigration news, trust Canada Immigration News to keep you informed and empowered throughout your immigration process.
