Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the latest Express Entry draw, bringing exciting news for potential immigrants.
This draw saw the issuance of 2,985 ITAs in a program-specific draw targeting candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 676.
This marks the first program-specific Express Entry draw since category-based selection draws were introduced in June 2023. Unlike general draws that consider candidates from all programs, these program-specific draws only evaluate candidates within a particular permanent residency program.
Today’s draw is notable as it is the first since April 24, following a month-long pause. IRCC has not provided a specific reason for this break. However, a recent Access to Information Request revealed that all draws this year are scheduled in advance, although the schedule has not been made public. The size and frequency of draws are expected to be influenced by the eligibility targets for 2024 and 2025, as well as processing capacity.
In April, IRCC conducted four draws. On April 10, 1,280 candidates were invited in a general draw. The next day, 4,500 ITAs were issued in a category-based selection draw for STEM professions. Two additional draws followed on April 23 and 24, with 2,095 candidates invited in a general draw and 1,400 candidates in a French proficiency-based selection draw, respectively.
French language proficiency is anticipated to be a key focus in category-based selection draws in 2024, due to the high employment rate of bilingual candidates. These candidates often have higher CRS scores, enhancing their chances of successful economic integration.
STEM occupations will receive the second highest number of ITAs at 25%, followed by healthcare occupations at 15%. The transport, trade, agriculture, and agri-food categories will account for 5% or less of all ITAs issued in category-based draws this year. The remaining 21.5% of ITAs will be distributed through general draws. Interestingly, there was no mention of program-specific draws in the recent information request.
The latest draw underscores IRCC’s ongoing commitment to managing Canada’s immigration system efficiently, while addressing specific labor market needs through targeted draws.