Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the most recent Express Entry draw focused exclusively on Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates. This draw, conducted on September 19, 2024, required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 509—slightly higher than the previous CEC-specific draw on August 27, which had a cut-off score of 507.
This latest selection marks the largest CEC-specific round since July 31, when 5,000 candidates were invited. The draw reflects the government’s continued commitment to experienced workers already contributing to Canada’s labor market and economy.
This month is proving to be active for the Express Entry system. In addition to the CEC draw, IRCC also carried out a Category-Based selection draw for French-speaking candidates (with 1,000 ITAs issued) and a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw inviting 911 candidates. The variety of draws illustrates Canada’s multi-pronged immigration strategy focusing on language proficiency, professional experience, and provincial needs.
The Canadian Experience Class is one of the three core programs managed under Express Entry, designed specifically for skilled foreign workers who have recent Canadian work experience. It offers a streamlined path to permanent residency, especially appealing to international graduates and temporary foreign workers who have built their lives and careers in Canada.
Each Express Entry draw is built upon the CRS, which ranks candidates based on key factors including age, education, language skills in English or French, Canadian work experience, and adaptability. High scorers are given priority for permanent residency invitations.
Canada introduced category-based selection draws in 2023 to address key labor shortages and demographic needs, such as healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and French-language skills. The CEC draw is part of a broader trend to attract and retain talent already integrated into Canadian society.
As of now, Express Entry has seen a dynamic year, with fluctuating CRS score thresholds and a strategic balance between PNP, general, and occupation- or language-specific draws. With these evolving patterns, candidates are encouraged to maintain strong profiles and stay updated on changing eligibility trends.
Maple News will continue monitoring and reporting on future Express Entry developments as Canada steadily builds toward its annual immigration targets.