Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its second Express Entry draw this week, specifically targeting professionals in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This special draw, the first of its kind for 2024, issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates holding a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 491.
Overview of the Latest Express Entry Draws
Following closely on the heels of a general draw on April 10, which sent out 1,280 ITAs to candidates with a CRS score of 549—the highest minimum score noted this year—this category-specific draw highlights IRCC’s strategic focus on filling key skill gaps within Canada’s workforce. General draws include candidates from all Express Entry-managed programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). In contrast, category-based draws, like this latest one, target specific occupations or skills that are in high demand across the country.
Express Entry Draw Trends in 2024
So far in 2024, IRCC’s approach to Express Entry draws shows a keen interest in diversifying the skills brought into the country. Here’s a summary of the year’s activities:
- STEM Occupations: 4,500 ITAs on April 11 with a minimum CRS score of 491
- General Draw: 1,280 ITAs on April 10 with a minimum CRS score of 549
- French Language Proficiency: 1,500 ITAs on March 26 with a CRS of 388
- Transport Occupations: 975 ITAs on March 13 with a CRS of 430
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations: 150 ITAs on February 16 with a CRS of 437
Understanding Category-Based Selection in Express Entry
Introduced in May 2023, category-based selection is IRCC’s method to pinpoint and invite Express Entry candidates who meet specific in-demand skills or attributes. For 2024, the categories include Healthcare, STEM professions, Trades, Transport, Agriculture and Agri-Food occupations, and strong French proficiency. These targeted draws aim to address immediate and strategic labor market needs in Canada.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an application management system used by IRCC to process applications for Canada’s main economic immigration programs. Applicants are assessed on factors like work experience, language ability, education, and age, which contribute to their total CRS score. High-scoring candidates are most likely to receive an ITA for permanent residence.
One of the primary advantages of the Express Entry system is its efficiency; IRCC aims to process 80% of all applications within six months, making it a preferred pathway for many aspiring immigrants.
Stay Updated and Get Assessed
For those looking to understand their potential under the Express Entry system or to explore other Canadian immigration options, getting a personalized assessment can clarify your eligibility and strategic approaches to successfully immigrate to Canada.
