Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 975 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a targeted Express Entry draw for transport occupations. Conducted on March 13, 2024, this is the first occupation-specific Express Entry draw of the year focusing on the transport sector. Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 430 to qualify.
This marks the second Express Entry draw of the week. A day earlier, on March 12, IRCC held a general draw, inviting 2,850 candidates across all Express Entry-managed programs. The cutoff CRS score for that draw was 525, marking a notable nine-point drop from the previous general draw on February 28 and the lowest CRS threshold for such a draw so far this year.
Canada’s Express Entry system has seen a dynamic start to 2024, with targeted draws aiming to address high-demand labor shortages across specific sectors. February, for example, featured six draws that collectively invited over 16,000 candidates. These included category-based selections for French-speaking applicants, healthcare professionals, and those in agricultural and agri-food roles.
The recent focus on transportation jobs is aligned with Canada’s economic strategy to fortify supply chains, public infrastructure, and logistics networks. By inviting individuals with professional experience in transport-related roles, the country aims to alleviate sector-specific labor gaps while promoting regional and national economic development.
IRCC introduced category-based selection draws in 2023, allowing the federal government to invite candidates with experience in sectors deemed vital to Canada’s workforce. In addition to transportation, categories have included healthcare, STEM, skilled trades, agriculture, and strong French language proficiency.
The general draws remain a key component of Express Entry, targeting high-scoring profiles across all eligible programs including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. These draws use the CRS to rank candidates based on age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
With this dual approach of general and occupation-specific draws, IRCC is managing immigration with precision, inviting candidates who are best aligned with Canada’s economic and labor priorities in 2024 and beyond.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on Express Entry trends as Canada adapts its immigration strategy to meet evolving workforce demands.