Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched its first Express Entry draw of 2024, inviting 471 candidates to apply for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 793, reflecting the added points that accompany a provincial nomination.
This marks the continuation of Canada’s focused approach to immigration, prioritizing streams aligned with economic and demographic needs. In 2023 and continuing into 2024, the IRCC has regularly issued invitations through category-based selections, drawing candidates from targeted groups such as PNP nominees, French-speaking applicants, and those qualified under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
In December alone, IRCC issued a total of 2,561 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across three draws: two PNP-specific and one for French language proficiency. These selections underscore IRCC’s ongoing effort to align the immigration system with Canada’s labor market demands and policy objectives.
The Express Entry system, which manages applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC), is Canada’s primary gateway for economic immigrants. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked based on factors such as education, age, work experience, and language proficiency.
IRCC’s category-based draws are part of a broader strategy introduced in the Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026. The plan sets out clear priorities: targeting in-demand sectors like healthcare and skilled trades, expanding French-speaking immigration, and increasing the number of skilled workers already residing in Canada. These strategic priorities fall under two key categories: “Federal Economic Priorities” and “In-Canada Focus” streams.
Looking ahead, Maple News anticipates continued emphasis on these Strategic Draw Categories. In 2025, IRCC is expected to further increase invitations to candidates from the CEC and PNP streams, consistent with its projection of 124,590 permanent resident landings under Express Entry.
With Canada striving to address labor shortages and regional development goals, PNP-linked Express Entry draws are playing a pivotal role. They serve as a collaborative bridge between federal and provincial governments, channeling immigration talent to areas where it’s most needed.
As the year unfolds, those hoping to receive an invitation through Express Entry in 2024 are advised to monitor category-based draw trends closely, enhance their CRS scores, and consider provincial nomination pathways to improve their chances of selection.
Maple News will continue to provide up-to-date coverage on all Express Entry developments and immigration policy updates impacting applicants worldwide.