Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on June 19, 2024, exclusively targeting candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A total of 1,499 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required set at 663.
This draw followed closely on the heels of two program-specific draws held on May 30 and 31. The May 30 draw also targeted PNP candidates, while the May 31 draw focused on the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), marking the first CEC-specific draw since September 2021. Combined, those two draws issued nearly 6,000 ITAs, underscoring the government’s renewed emphasis on transitioning temporary residents to permanent status.
IRCC’s focus on program-specific draws reflects a broader strategy announced earlier in 2024. The Canadian government signaled intentions to favor applicants already residing in Canada, especially through PNP and CEC pathways. This policy shift is part of efforts to reduce the temporary resident population and streamline the pathway to permanent residency for those contributing to Canada’s labor market.
The CRS cut-off score of 663 in the June 19 draw indicates how competitive the PNP stream continues to be. Nominees under this program already have provincial endorsements, boosting their CRS through a 600-point addition, which often makes them standout candidates.
Express Entry is Canada’s main application management system for economic immigration. It governs three primary pathways: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Candidates are ranked based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and whether they are applying with a spouse or partner.
Since the start of 2024, IRCC has been alternating between general and targeted draws, including those based on French language proficiency, STEM and healthcare occupations, and now program-specific draws. The fluctuating CRS scores indicate Canada’s flexibility in adjusting immigration targets according to labor market demand and policy priorities.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on developments in Canada’s immigration policy, including updates on Express Entry and other economic and regional programs.