In a surprising turn of events, IRCC has extended invitations to 700 candidates in the latest Express Entry draw. This draw covered all programs and required a minimum CRS score of 511.
This unexpected move comes just before IRCC’s plan to invite 1,500 healthcare workers through category-based selection on July 5. Additionally, there’s anticipation that candidates with experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields will also receive invites. The required minimum CRS score for healthcare and STEM candidates remains to be seen.
Last week, on June 28, IRCC made history by inviting 500 healthcare workers with a minimum CRS score of 476 through the first-ever Express Entry category-based draw. They also announced the upcoming inclusion of STEM professions in this week’s category-based Express Entry round.
The current CRS score of 511 is the highest for all program draws this year. It’s a significant increase from the last draw on June 27, where 4,300 candidates were invited with a minimum CRS score of 486. It’s also 35 points higher than the score needed in the category-based draw on June 28.
Category-based draws are a new approach to Express Entry, targeting specific occupational fields and in-demand attributes. Six categories have been introduced: Healthcare, STEM professions, Trades, Transport, Agriculture, and strong French-language proficiency.
These category-based draws were made possible after changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in June 2022. This empowers the immigration minister to invite economic immigrants based on attributes aligned with Canada’s financial goals or to promote French language skills outside of Quebec.
For those new to Express Entry, it’s a system used by IRCC to select candidates for permanent residency based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS evaluates factors like work experience, occupation, language proficiency, education, and age. Eligible candidates are ranked based on their CRS score, and those with the highest scores are invited to apply (ITA).
Express Entry manages three programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Each program has its eligibility requirements, all assessed using the same system. So, if you’re dreaming of a new life in Canada, keep an eye on those CRS scores and category-based draws – your opportunity could be just around the corner!
