Maple News reports that despite a temporary pause in Express Entry draws, now remains an ideal time for eligible candidates to submit their profiles to the Express Entry pool.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has shifted away from following a consistent schedule for Express Entry draws. The most recent draws were held on October 26 and December 5, 2023, indicating irregular intervals between rounds. Although IRCC has not provided a reason for these pauses, experts and advisors still strongly encourage eligible candidates to participate in the Express Entry system.
One of the most compelling reasons to enter the pool is the increased access to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Nearly every Canadian province and territory operates its own PNP, many of which are aligned with the Express Entry system. These programs actively search the pool to identify candidates with the skills and experience that match local labor market needs.
A provincial nomination can significantly enhance your immigration prospects. Under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), securing a provincial nomination gives you an additional 600 points—almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
For example, on November 30, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 1,052 Notifications of Interest to eligible Express Entry candidates in the healthcare sector. These candidates had CRS scores between 404 and 430. This demonstrates that provinces continue to engage with the Express Entry pool, even during federal pauses.
Remaining in the pool keeps you visible to provinces that are continually selecting candidates based on high-demand occupations, specific skill sets, or target industries. This is especially relevant as labor shortages persist across Canada, notably in fields such as healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and engineering.
Additionally, candidates in the pool can improve their CRS scores over time. By enhancing language test results, gaining work experience, or obtaining additional education or certifications, applicants can make themselves more competitive before the next draw.
Maple News emphasizes that, rather than waiting for perfect timing, proactive engagement with the Express Entry system gives applicants more control and flexibility over their immigration journey. With evolving pathways and ongoing selection by provinces, entering the pool continues to be a smart strategic move.
For those eligible, the Express Entry pool remains one of Canada’s most efficient and promising immigration pathways—even in times of uncertainty.