Maple News reports that Canada’s Express Entry system has experienced substantial changes in the first six months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, signaling a shift in immigration priorities and selection strategies.
Between January and June 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted 19 Express Entry draws and issued a total of 41,855 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. This is notably fewer than the 49,948 ITAs issued during the same period in 2023, despite the increased number of draws last year totaling just 13.
A significant difference in 2024 has been the expanded use of category-based selection draws. These new draws, introduced by IRCC under the Express Entry management system, target specific categories such as French-speaking candidates, STEM professionals, healthcare workers, transport and agriculture specialists, and those with experience in agri-food jobs. This strategy allows Canada to attract immigrants who better match its labor market needs, reducing the focus on a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score alone.
Another major development is Minister of Immigration Marc Miller’s focus on increasing “domestic draws.” These prioritize candidates already in Canada, such as temporary residents and international graduates, providing them a more direct pathway to permanent residence. This aligns with the government’s goal to help existing migrants transition permanently, thereby reducing reliance on new arrivals and better supporting those already contributing to the Canadian economy.
Changes to the proof of funds requirements have also been introduced in 2024, affecting candidates applying through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). These updates emphasize the importance of financial readiness in adapting to Canadian life.
Compared to 2023, which mainly saw general draws or those targeting provincial nominees and specific program classes, 2024’s Express Entry system highlights a more data-driven and targeted approach to economic immigration. The broadening of draw categories is expected to continue through the rest of the year, reflecting Canada’s evolving demographics and economic needs.
The month-long pause in draws earlier this year also raised questions among stakeholders, though it is believed to be tied to adjustments in operational priorities and the integration of category-based selection strategies.
As Canada navigates economic recovery and labor shortages in key sectors, these nuanced changes to the Express Entry system represent a more responsive and efficient immigration model. Maple News will continue to monitor and report on how these trends impact applicants and the broader immigration landscape in Canada.