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November 26, 2023

Canada’s Express Entry system has experienced a week of heightened activity, marking the first occasion since late September that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted three draws in a single week. The latest draw, held on October 26, 2023, follows closely on the heels of two other significant draws earlier in the week.

October 26 Express Entry Draw: Focused on Healthcare Professionals

In a targeted move to bolster the healthcare sector, IRCC issued 3,600 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with relevant experience. This draw, which had a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 431, was the first category-based draw for healthcare professionals since early July.

A Week of Diverse Draws

This week’s activities began with a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-only draw on October 24, inviting 1,548 candidates with a minimum CRS of 776. The following day, October 25, saw a draw for candidates proficient in French, with 300 ITAs issued and a minimum CRS of 486.

Understanding Express Entry

Express Entry is the cornerstone of Canada’s economic immigration strategy, managing applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Candidates are ranked based on their CRS score, which reflects human capital factors such as work experience, language skills, education, and age.

There are two types of Express Entry draws:

  1. Standard Express Entry Draw: This traditional draw method, in place since the system’s inception in 2015, ranks candidates based on their CRS score, with those above the cut-off score receiving an ITA for permanent residence.

  2. Category-Based Selection System: Introduced in 2023, this method prioritizes candidates with specific attributes, such as French-language proficiency or work experience in key sectors like healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, and agriculture/agri-food.

Navigating Express Entry with MSAWEST

At MSAWEST Immigration & Visa Services, we closely monitor the evolving landscape of Canada’s Express Entry system. Our expertise and guidance can help you understand these draws and position your application for success.

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