The recent Express Entry draw conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) saw invitations being issued to 150 candidates in a targeted draw of agriculture and agri-food occupations.
This category-based selection draw required candidates to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 437. This draw, held on February 16, follows a series of draws in February, indicating a proactive approach by IRCC in fulfilling the immigration targets set for 2024.
In the draw held on February 14, 3,500 candidates were invited in a targeted draw of healthcare occupations with a minimum CRS score of 422. Before that, on February 13, a general draw invited 1,490 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 535.
These draws demonstrate the continuous efforts of IRCC to streamline the immigration process and address the evolving needs of the Canadian economy.
The year 2023 witnessed a total of 42 Express Entry draws, with ITAs issued to over 110,000 candidates, reflecting the government’s commitment to meeting both the 2023 and 2024 admissions targets outlined in the Immigration Levels Plan. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic and changing global dynamics, IRCC remains steadfast in its mission to attract skilled professionals who can bolster Canada’s economic growth through immigration.
Express Entry serves as the primary application management system for three of Canada’s key economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Candidates in these programs are assessed based on various human capital attributes, including work experience, education, age, occupation, and language ability. The introduction of category-based selection draws, such as those for candidates with healthcare occupations, agriculture occupations, or strong French-language proficiency, underscores IRCC’s efforts to align immigration policies with the evolving economic needs of the Canadian labour market.
The Express Entry application process involves multiple steps, starting with a self-assessment of eligibility for the program. Upon creating a profile in the Express Entry pool and obtaining a CRS score, candidates await an invitation to apply (ITA) in subsequent draws.
Candidates who receive an ITA have a limited time frame to submit their application for permanent residency, typically around 60 days. It’s crucial for candidates to ensure that all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately and within the specified timeframe to avoid any delays or complications in the application process.
As Canada continues to navigate the complexities of immigration amid a changing global landscape, initiatives like Express Entry play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent essential for the country’s long-term prosperity. With proactive measures and strategic reforms, IRCC remains committed to building a diverse and inclusive society while strengthening Canada’s position on the global stage.
If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.
