Maple News reports that 2024 marked a transformative year for Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, with significant policy shifts, new category-based draws, and an evolving focus on priority sectors. These changes brought both new opportunities and higher competitiveness for skilled workers aiming for Canadian permanent residence.
Over the course of the year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued a total of 98,803 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through 52 draws. The year began with a mix of general and category-based draws but soon saw a stronger focus on specific streams, including the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and candidates with French language proficiency. This shift reflects IRCC’s continued efforts to align immigration with provincial labor market needs and national priorities.
The draws were diverse in scope and selectivity. PNP draws were the most frequent, totaling 14, with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores ranging from 663 to 816—the highest among all categories. French-speaking candidates benefited from 11 dedicated draws, requiring CRS scores between 336 and 478. CEC draws took place 10 times, with cut-off scores ranging from 507 to 547, indicating the competitiveness of this stream.
General draws, open to all candidates regardless of occupation or program, occurred 9 times, with a narrow CRS bandwidth between 524 and 549. Newer occupation-specific draws targeting healthcare, STEM, transport, and trade professionals were also introduced. Notably, healthcare occupations saw three draws with scores as low as 422, while STEM talent was invited once, with a cut-off of 491.
Category-based selection became a defining feature of Express Entry in 2024. This new approach allowed Canada to prioritize candidates aligned with key economic and demographic goals. In particular, the focus on French language speakers and critical sectors like healthcare and agriculture revealed an emerging trend to decentralize the system and meet regional demands.
By December 2024, the Express Entry pool reached 221,310 active profiles—an increase over 2023—highlighting the growing global interest in Canadian immigration. The rising number of candidates underscores the competitive nature of the system and the importance of tailoring applications to meet the latest category priorities.
Looking ahead to 2025, immigration experts anticipate further refinement of category-based draws and possibly new targeted occupations as Canada’s economic needs evolve. Candidates are advised to monitor updates closely and ensure their profiles are optimized based on the latest selection trends.
Maple News will continue to provide accurate and timely coverage on Express Entry and other Canadian immigration developments as they unfold.