Canada’s category-based Express Entry draws have marked their first full year of implementation, signaling a strategic shift in how Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) targets skilled newcomers. According to Maple News, this new system, first introduced in June 2023, is designed to attract immigrants who match Canada’s most pressing economic and demographic needs — a move that aligns immigration policy with real-time labor shortages in key sectors.
The category-based selection system was announced in May 2023, with the first draw held on June 28 of that year. While the traditional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) still plays an important role in candidate selection, this updated approach prioritizes individuals with specific work experience or language proficiency aligned with national goals. Key in-demand categories include healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), trades, transportation, agriculture and agri-food occupations, and candidates with strong French-language skills.
Since its inception, the IRCC has conducted 25 category-based draws. These draws have varied substantially in terms of CRS score thresholds and the number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued, reflecting infrastructure needs as well as fluctuating workforce demands. For example, the lowest CRS score seen was 336 in a French-language draw on February 29, 2024, while the highest was 491 in a STEM draw on April 11, 2024.
When broken down, French-language candidates account for a significant portion of the ITAs — a reflection of Canada’s commitment to promoting bilingualism and strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec. In February 2024 alone, 7,000 ITAs were issued to French-speaking candidates with a CRS cut-off of just 365.
Healthcare also remains a top priority. Draws in this category have often seen thousands of ITAs issued, most notably on October 26, 2023, when 3,600 healthcare professionals received invitations, despite a relatively moderate CRS score of 431. Similar emphasis has been placed on trades and transport professionals, further supporting the country’s infrastructure and logistics sectors.
Another noteworthy aspect is the flexibility of the new draw system. By adapting selection criteria based on real-time needs, IRCC can maintain a more balanced and efficient immigration pipeline. This approach also provides greater predictability and transparency for prospective immigrants, who now have more clarity on what Canada values most in its newcomers.
Overall, the first year of category-based Express Entry draws has proven to be a data-driven and responsive evolution in Canada’s immigration policy. As labor shortages persist and economic priorities shift, IRCC is expected to continue refining this model to ensure both immediate workforce support and long-term demographic success.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on upcoming Express Entry trends and draw statistics as they develop.