IRCC Grants 4,000 ITAs in Latest Express Entry Draw

The latest Express Entry draw has brought exciting news for many hopeful immigrants. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to offer opportunities for individuals looking to build a future in Canada.

 

In the most recent draw, 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, making it one of the most significant draws of the year. Here’s a breakdown of what happened, who was invited, and what it means for Express Entry candidates.

Highlights of the Latest Express Entry Draw

In September 2024, IRCC invited 4,000 candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) through the Express Entry system. This draw was specific to CEC candidates, meaning it targeted those who already have Canadian work experience. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an ITA in this draw was 509, slightly higher than the previous CEC-specific draw.

This draw follows two others earlier in the month, where 911 candidates were invited from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and 1,000 candidates were selected based on their proficiency in French. The latest CEC draw is particularly noteworthy because it is the largest since July, when 5,000 candidates were invited.

Understanding the CRS Score Increase

Compared to the last CEC draw in August, where the minimum CRS score was 507, the latest draw saw a slight increase to 509. CRS scores are calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. While the difference in scores may seem small, it can impact many candidates who are on the verge of meeting the required points. For those with a CRS score close to the cut-off, additional steps like improving language test scores or securing a provincial nomination can make a significant difference.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is a system introduced by Canada in 2015 to manage applications for three key immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Candidates who qualify for these programs are given a CRS score based on several factors, including language proficiency, education, work experience, and more. Those with the highest scores receive an ITA during Express Entry draws, allowing them to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Category-Based Selection Draws

In 2023, IRCC introduced category-based selection draws to address specific labor market needs. These draws focus on candidates with certain attributes, such as work experience in high-demand fields or language abilities. The six categories currently targeted are:

1. Healthcare
2. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Professions
3. Trades
4. Transport
5. Agriculture and Agri-Food
6. French Language Proficiency

These categories reflect Canada’s labor demands and the need to fill gaps in critical sectors. The category for French language proficiency, for example, helps support Canada’s goal of increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec.

Key Changes in Recent Draws

Canada’s Express Entry system has undergone some changes recently, and these could impact future draws:

Cost-of-Living Fund Requirement: Starting January 1, 2024, international students applying for study permits will need to demonstrate double the amount of funds previously required, at CAD 20,635. This change is aimed at ensuring students have sufficient financial resources during their stay in Canada.

Off-Campus Work Hours: The temporary policy allowing international students to work off-campus for more than 20 hours a week has ended. From May 2024, the limit will be set at 24 hours per week, higher than the pre-pandemic limit of 20 hours but lower than the anticipated 30 hours.

Cap on International Student Inflow: In 2024, Canada introduced a cap on the number of international students it would admit. The cap is expected to limit approved study permits to 360,000 in 2024, down 35% from 2023.

Restriction on Post-Graduate Work Permits: From September 1, 2024, students in programs delivered under curriculum licensing agreements will no longer be eligible for post-graduate work permits. This policy aims to close a loophole that previously allowed some private institutions to provide post-graduation work permit eligibility without proper oversight.

Spouse Work Permits: Starting in January 2024, open work permits for spouses of international students will only be available to those studying in master’s and doctoral programs.

These changes highlight the dynamic nature of Canadian immigration policy and the need for candidates to stay updated on the latest requirements.

What Happens After Receiving an ITA?

Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit their complete application for permanent residency to IRCC. This includes providing all required documents, such as proof of education, work experience, and language proficiency. The processing time for Express Entry applications is generally six months, but it can vary based on the complexity of the application.

Conclusion

The latest Express Entry draw shows Canada’s commitment to welcoming skilled workers and addressing labor shortages. For Indian students and other international candidates, staying informed about the latest changes in immigration policies is crucial. With changes in CRS scores, category-based selections, and work permit regulations, candidates must remain proactive and prepared.

If you’re looking for guidance on how to navigate Canada’s immigration system, Eduland Immigration is here to help. With over 17 years of experience and expertise in handling visa applications, especially for the USA and Canada, Eduland Immigration provides the support you need to make your immigration journey smoother.

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