Express Entry: IRCC Invites 1,121 Provincial Nominee Program Candidates in Latest Draw

In the latest Express Entry draw, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,121 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). To be eligible for this draw, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 694.

Overview of Recent Express Entry Draws

This draw marks the fourth Express Entry draw in August. The most recent prior draw occurred on August 15, which focused on candidates proficient in French, while two other draws took place earlier that week. On August 13, IRCC invited 763 PNP candidates with a minimum CRS score of 690, and on August 14, 3,200 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates were invited, requiring a minimum score of 509.

IRCC's Recent Trends and Future Goals

IRCC has recently been conducting multiple draws every other week, with a noticeable increase in PNP and CEC draws. This strategy aligns with the department's focus on reducing the number of temporary residents while working towards meeting permanent resident admission targets as outlined in the Immigration Levels Plan for 2024-2026.

IRCC aims to welcome 110,770 newcomers through Express Entry in 2024 and increase that number to 117,500 in 2025. Candidates who receive ITAs in the latter half of the year are expected to help meet the 2025 targets, as IRCC typically processes finalized Express Entry applications within six months.

Summary of Recent Express Entry Draws in 2024

Here’s a quick look at the recent Express Entry draw results:

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s application management system for three major economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates in these programs are assessed and ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers factors such as work experience, education, age, language skills, and other elements like having a sibling in Canada.

Those with the highest CRS scores are most likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in upcoming draws.

In May 2023, IRCC introduced category-based draws for candidates with specific occupations or language abilities, further tailoring the Express Entry system to meet Canada’s economic needs.

Express Entry continues to be a key pathway for skilled workers looking to make Canada their home, with IRCC constantly refining the system to better align with the country's evolving labour market and immigration goals.