In the latest Express Entry draw, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) extended invitations to 700 candidates. This draw encompassed candidates from all programs, and a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 511 was necessary for eligibility.

The occurrence of this draw came as a surprise, as the IRCC has announced its plan to invite 1,500 healthcare workers through category-based selection on July 5. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the IRCC will also conduct the first-ever category-based selection Express Entry draw specifically for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions, inviting candidates with relevant work experience in these fields. The minimum CRS score required for healthcare and STEM candidates is yet to be determined.

Last week, on June 28, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the inaugural Express Entry category-based draw, extending invitations to 500 healthcare workers with a minimum CRS score of 476. Concurrently, IRCC announced its intention to hold a category-based Express Entry draw for STEM professions during this week.

The current CRS score of 511 in the all-program draw represents the highest score observed in any draw of 2023. It is notably higher than the previous all-program draw on June 27, where 4,300 candidates received invitations with a minimum CRS score of 486. Moreover, it exceeds the requirement of 476 in the category-based draw held on June 28 by 35 points.

Category-based draws

Category-based selection draws introduce a novel approach within the Express Entry system, aiming to invite candidates with specific occupational expertise or other sought-after attributes. There are six distinct categories for which candidates may be eligible:

• Healthcare
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
• Trades, including carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
• Transport
• Agriculture and agri-food
• Strong French-language proficiency

The introduction of category-based selection draws became possible following amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in June 2022. These changes grant the immigration minister the authority to invite economic immigrants based on specific attributes aligned with Canada's economic priorities or aimed at promoting the French language outside of Quebec.

What is Express Entry

Express Entry serves as an application management system utilized by the IRCC to select candidates for permanent residency based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS evaluates candidates according to various factors such as work experience, occupation, language proficiency, education, age, and more. Once eligible candidates upload their profiles to the IRCC website, they are assigned a CRS score based on these criteria and ranked alongside other candidates. The individuals with the highest scores have the greatest likelihood of receiving an Invitation 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 distinct eligibility requirements, but they are evaluated using the same CRS system.