According to Maple News, Canada is on pace to surpass 100,000 Express Entry invitations in 2020 — an outcome that seemed highly unlikely at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This unexpected surge underscores Canada’s sustained commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants even amid global uncertainty.
The Express Entry system, managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is the country’s flagship pathway for economic-class immigration. Economic immigrants make up nearly 60% of all new permanent residents each year. The original 2020 federal immigration plan aimed to invite 91,800 skilled immigrants through Express Entry. However, current trends suggest that this total could far exceed 100,000 by year-end.
This momentum has been particularly remarkable given that Canada introduced strict travel restrictions in mid-March to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These limitations caused a significant decline in monthly immigration figures, with just 4,000 newcomers arriving in April. While numbers have gradually recovered, they remained lower than pre-pandemic levels throughout the summer.
Another challenge facing the system is the backlog of individuals who have already received Confirmations of Permanent Residence (COPRs). Many of these individuals are still unable to enter Canada. Some have expired documents, while others received their COPRs after March 18 and are currently restricted from traveling due to public health measures.
Despite these obstacles, the Canadian government has continued bi-weekly Express Entry draws throughout the pandemic, issuing large numbers of invitations. This consistent activity sharply contrasts with early concerns that draws would be paused or drastically reduced. Instead, IRCC has adapted by focusing on candidates already in Canada or those with provincial nominations, who are more likely to be exempt from travel limitations.
The ongoing success of Express Entry draws not only reflects the resilience of Canada’s immigration system but also signals its strategic importance for the country’s long-term economic recovery. With immigration seen as a key driver for population growth, labor market stability, and innovation, policymakers appear determined to maintain momentum despite global disruptions.
As 2020 nears its end, all signs point to Canada achieving its largest-ever number of Express Entry invitations, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a top destination for skilled global talent.