Canada invites 4,626 candidates in new Express Entry draw

Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its second Express Entry draw this week issuing 4,626 invitations to apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off requirement was 454 points.

The CRS cut-off score for this draw is seven (7) points lower than the previous CEC specific draw.

Last year at this time, only 3,400 ITAs were given to permanent resident candidates. This year to date, 10,000 ITAs have been issued. IRCC has not held an all-program draw in 2021 so far. The PNP and CEC specific draws is a sign that IRCC will rely heavily on Express Entry candidates in 2021. It is also possible that the Foreign Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) candidates will also be considered for Express Entry draws in 2021.

The Canadian government continues to stress that welcoming large numbers of skilled foreign workers during and after the COVID-19 pandemic will remain vital to supporting a strong economy.

Individuals who are part of the CEC program are urged to check their email inboxes for their invitation. Once candidates receive their ITA, they should begin applying for permanent residency.