Canada has recently conducted its first Express Entry draw in over a month, issuing a total of 3,200 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). In this draw, which took place on September 19, applicants needed to meet a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 531.
This draw marked Canada’s return to the Express Entry system since the last draw on August 15, which saw 4,300 ITAs issued with a minimum CRS score of 496. Furthermore, there’s anticipation of another draw this week, specifically targeting transportation-related jobs.
Throughout the year, Canada has held a variety of draws, including:
- 15 all-program draws
- Four Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws
- Three draws aimed at French-speaking candidates
- Two draws focused on healthcare occupations
- One draw targeting STEM occupations
- One draw targeting skilled trades
- One draw targeting Federal Skilled Worker candidates
As of now, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a total of 80,948 ITAs in 2023, a significant increase compared to the 45,115 invitations issued in the entirety of 2022.
It’s worth noting that in 2021, the IRCC issued a record-breaking 114,431 ITAs to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program categories, surpassing the previous record of 107,350 set in 2020.
For 2023, Canada has set a record immigration target of 465,000, highlighting the nation’s commitment to welcoming newcomers.
In the latest draw, a tie-breaking rule was implemented based on submissions before September 12, 2023, at 8:16 a.m. EST. This means that only candidates who had submitted their Express Entry profiles before this date and time received invitations in cases where multiple candidates shared the same minimum CRS score.
This draw marks the 27th round of invitations under Express Entry in 2023 and the 263rd overall. Candidates who receive ITAs have a 60-day window to submit their applications, which will be processed within the standard six-month timeline.
For employers seeking to recruit foreign workers, it’s highly recommended to consider obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or seeking nomination through provincial nomination programs (PNPs) to facilitate long-term employee retention.
At immigration.ca, we offer Canadian employers comprehensive immigration legal services and assistance in recruiting foreign nationals through our in-house skilledworker.com. Our unique position in the industry allows us to efficiently bring qualified candidates to Canada, meeting both recruitment and immigration needs.
Prospective employers interested in our services are encouraged to contact us for further information.
For candidates looking to secure an ITA in the next round of invitations, obtaining an approved offer of employment is a recommended pathway. To determine your eligibility for immigration to Canada, complete our free online evaluation, and receive your results within 1-2 business days.
