Canada Express Entry Update: November 2024

In the latest Express Entry draw (326) held on November 19, 2024, Canada invited 400 candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this draw was 539, marking a decrease from the previous draw, which had a score of 547.

Details of the Draw

• Draw Number: 326
• Date of Draw: November 19, 2024
• Total Invitations Issued: 400
• Minimum CRS Score: 539
• Program Specified: Canadian Experience Class
• Tie-breaking Rule: July 8, 2024, at 01:41:37 UTC

This draw represents another significant round for the CEC in 2024. Candidates with a CRS score of 539 or higher received invitations to apply for permanent residency. For those with the same lowest score, the cut-off was determined by their profile submission date.

Understanding the Canadian Experience Class

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a key immigration stream within Canada’s Express Entry system. It caters specifically to skilled workers who have gained Canadian work experience. This program is essential to Canada’s immigration strategy, as it acknowledges the contributions of individuals who have already supported the economy.

The CEC operates under the Express Entry system and ranks candidates based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Applicants with competitive CRS scores are invited to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

Current Express Entry Pool Statistics

The IRCC regularly updates the number of candidates in the Express Entry pool prior to each invitation round. The figures fluctuate as new profiles are submitted, existing profiles expire, or candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs). As of November 20, 2024, the Express Entry pool composition is as follows:

Overview of Recent Express Entry Draws

Here is a summary of the recent Express Entry draws held in November 2024:

Canada’s Immigration Focus: In-Canada Residents

The Immigration Levels Plan for 2025–2027 highlights a greater emphasis on applicants currently residing in Canada. This strategy aims to streamline the transition for temporary residents seeking permanent status. By prioritizing those already in Canada, the plan addresses ongoing labor shortages and fosters economic growth.

The focus on “in-Canada” applicants recognizes the contributions of international students and temporary foreign workers. These individuals often possess the skills and experience that Canada needs.

Benefits of Transitioning Temporary Residents

The 2025–2027 immigration plan aims to enhance funding for programs like the CEC. It acknowledges the value of those with Canadian education or work experience. This preference positions them well for quick integration into society and the workforce.

Focusing on applicants who are already in Canada helps vital industries facing labor shortages, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and construction. By facilitating their transition to permanent residency, Canada can effectively address these shortages.

How Express Entry Draws Work

The Express Entry system processes applications for skilled worker immigration to Canada. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

• Foremost, Profile Submission: Candidates complete an online profile that includes their qualifications, work experience, and language skills.
• Next, Ranking System: The system evaluates candidates based on various factors, such as education, work experience, and language proficiency.
• Also, Invitation to Apply: The highest-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
• Lastly, Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must meet the criteria for one of the federal economic immigration programs.

In conclusion, the recent Express Entry draw marks an essential step for candidates in the Canadian Experience Class. With ongoing adjustments in immigration policies, Canada continues to adapt to its labor market needs while providing pathways for those already contributing to its society. If you qualify, now is a great time to explore your options and take the next step toward permanent residency in Canada!

Provincial Nominee Program Cuts a Setback for Aspirants

The significant cut in PNP allocations is one of the most noticeable modifications to the 2025–2027 plan. The current plan allows 55,000 admissions for 2025, which is less than half of the initial aim of 120,000 admissions. It is, however, crucial to realize that the majority of provincial nominee programs run by the largest Canadian provinces fall into one of the non-Express Entry or Express Entry categories.

Furthermore, the PNP quota has dropped by over 50% for programs that are not Express Entry streams, but not for those that are.

What Does This Mean for PNP Applicants?

Fewer Invitations

Opportunities for provincial immigration programs, which were formerly the preferred choice for applicants with lower scores on the complete ranking system, may have decreased. Furthermore, reduced quotas may result in delays or rejections for workers and students pursuing non-Express Entry PNP routes in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.

Tensions Between Federal and Provincial Governments

The cut is, however, perceived as a federal attempt to regulate immigration, possibly punishing provinces for refusing to take on additional refugee claims. Also, concerns about the decrease in PNP targets have already been publicly voiced by the Alberta premier and the provincial immigration minister.

The observation about the decline in immigration targets under the PNP was also reiterated by Olivia Chia, the mayor of Toronto.

What Should Applicants Do?

For applicants who depend on these programs, the reduction in PNP quotas is a significant blow. Similarly, reducing PNP targets is viewed as a calculated step by the federal government to lessen provincial control over immigration selection.

By optimizing their profile following eligibility requirements for prior similar stream programs, the federal government appears to make it apparent that provinces bear responsibility for increased immigration under PNP and strive for PNP streams or programs that work directly with the Express Entry system.