In a significant move, IRCC has extended invitations to more candidates during the latest Express Entry draw of 2023. On August 3rd, IRCC pioneered issuing invitations to 1,500 candidates in the inaugural category-based Express Entry draw, exclusively targeting trade candidates. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required stood at 388.
Breaking new ground, on August 1st, IRCC announced the maiden targeted draw for trades professionals within the Express Entry category-based selection. Encompassing vocations such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding, this category bolsters Canada’s construction sector by attracting more skilled workers.
Recent Highlights of Express Entry Draws:
August 2nd:
In an eventful August 2nd draw, IRCC extended invitations to candidates proficient in French, granting 800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for eligible individuals with a minimum CRS score of 435. A previous targeted draw for French-speaking candidates had taken place on July 12th.
August 1st:
Marking a significant milestone, all-program Express Entry draws resumed on August 1st. IRCC invited 2,000 candidates from the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The minimum CRS score requirement for this round stood at 517. August 1st marked the first all-program Express Entry draw since July 11th.
July 12 Results
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its most recent round of Express Entry invitations, issuing invitations to 3,800 candidates in a draw that focused on the French language category.
To be eligible, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 375. The draw took place on July 12th.
July 11 Results
On July 11th, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued invitations to 800 candidates. The draw was open to all programs and required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 505.
Here’s an overview of the latest Express Entry draw results:
Category-based Selection
Canada’s immigration minister, Sean Fraser, recently introduced category-based selection in the country’s immigration system. This development follows the royal assent of Bill C-19 in Canada’s parliament last June. It grants the immigration minister the authority to invite economic immigration candidates who will contribute to Canada’s economy. The goal is to promote the French language outside of Quebec.
Under this new approach, specific attributes such as language proficiency or work experience will be considered when inviting newcomers, shifting the focus away from the overall Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Moreover, to determine the categories, extensive discussions were held with stakeholders, and provincial and territorial governments, to identify critical gaps in Canada’s labor force. They have established the following categories:
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, including carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
Candidates selected under these categories must still meet the eligibility requirements of an Express Entry program. While specific attributes are considered, having a high CRS score remains beneficial, as candidates will still be ranked against each other.
The Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025 outlines the target of admitting 82,880 new permanent residents to Canada through Express Entry by the end of 2023, increasing to 109,020 in 2024 and 114,000 by 2025. The implementation of category-based selection will play a significant role in ensuring that newcomers contribute to meeting these targets and further strengthening Canada’s workforce.
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June 27-28 Express Entry Draw Results
In the Express Entry draw on June 27, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,300 candidates from all programs. These candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 486.
On June 28, IRCC issued the first-ever Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for category-based selection. This draw invited 500 candidates with work experience in healthcare occupations. The minimum CRS score was 476 for applying for permanent residence in Canada.
July 4-7 Express Entry Draw Results
Last week, between July 4-7, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted draws on four consecutive days, resulting in various invitations.
On July 4, an unexpected all-program draw occurred, with 700 candidates receiving invitations. These candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 511. This marks the highest CRS score needed for an all-program draw in 2023.
Besides, the anticipated first-ever round of invitations for candidates with work experience in select science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations took place on July 5. IRCC invited 500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 486.
On July 6, the third draw of the week occurred, inviting 1,500 candidates in a category-based selection draw specifically targeting healthcare professionals. The cut-off CRS score for this draw was 463, as expected.
Finally, on July 7, the fourth draw of the week resulted in the issuance of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to 2,300 candidates with strong French-speaking abilities. These candidates had to have a minimum CRS score of 439.
Final Thoughts
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