Canada Express Entry Predictions: CRS Score Trends, ITA’s, New Policy & Rules

For professionals, skilled workers, and business owners looking to settle in Canada, the Express Entry system remains a vital route. Come along as we examine the patterns, guidelines, and significant events that have influenced the Express Entry draws all year long, offering insightful information to stakeholders and potential immigrants alike.

Canada has issued invitations in two general and two targeted rounds, but it’s crucial to look over the main patterns. Following the first quarter of 2024, fewer invitations were sent overall than in February, but more invitations were sent out generally in March of that year.

Specifics of Each Draw

March 2024 Express Entry Draws Summary

With a CRS cut-off score of 524 to 525, the IRCC sent out 4,830 invitations to apply for permanent residency in a general draw in March. Comparing the general drawings to February 2,960 and January 3,280, there were more invitations sent out. Moreover, the threshold score has been steadily declining in comparison to February and January, hovering around 524.

In terms of targeted Express Entry draws, fewer invites are being sent out in rounds with a French concentration, although the cutoff score is still below 400. One transport-focused round of invitations in March announced a CRS cutoff score of 435 points, which was lower than the previous identical draw in December, even though there were only 1,500 invites sent out.

While there have been more invites sent out so far in 2024, drawings with a concentration on healthcare, agriculture, and transportation have been observed; draws with a focus on STEM and trade occupations have not yet been observed.

Upcoming Express Entry Draws Expectations

1. CRS Score Trends

We can see a decrease in general healthcare and transport rounds based on the CRS score requirements as of March 2024.

• We anticipate additional drops in the CRS cutoff and general drawings if the IRCC issues invitations at the same rate.
• Nevertheless, until or unless the IRCC has a sizable General draw, the score will remain high at 510 Plus shortly.
• The CRS cut-off for targeted draws is anticipated to remain roughly where it is at this time.

2. Invitations Issued

Although there were more invitations sent out in March than in January overall, February alone sent out about 1.6 times as many invitations as there were in both March and January put together.

• It’s difficult to forecast how many invitations the IRCC will send in the coming months due to its inconsistent invitation schedule, but at least 7,000 invites should be sent out each month.
• We anticipate that some months will see more invitations sent, while other months will see a significant number sent.
• In the upcoming weeks, we anticipate fewer draws related to transportation and agriculture and more draws involving Francophones.

3. Immigration Policy Uncertainty

The Minister of Immigration has stated that while they are working on concentrating on domestic draws, nothing is set in stone. In the upcoming months, Canadian Experience Class draws—which are anticipated to have a lower cut-off score than General draws—may take place if the minister follows through on his statements.

Long-Term Outlook

Express Entry is still a feasible option for skilled workers looking to establish their futures in Canada, notwithstanding small changes. Its increased variety and economic prosperity have made it more competitive than before. We anticipate that by the end of the year, assuming the IRCC continues to be consistent in sending out invites, the high CRS score cutoffs and targeted drawings will cause the CRS cutoff score to fall to about 500, but it will remain over 500 in general draws.

The CRS cut-off score is anticipated to be between 480 and 490 in the long run if the IRCC reintroduces CEC-only draws, although this will further divide the slots with the general draw and could lead to a higher cut-off in other program rounds.

Conclusion

The immigration picture to Canada is changing as we get to the end of our investigation into the Canada Express Entry drawings for 2024. Aspiring immigrants continue to face a dynamic and ever-changing journey, marked by changes in selection criteria, fluctuations, and draw frequencies.

We trust that this overview has given you insightful knowledge about the latest advancements and patterns in the Express Entry system, enabling you to make wise choices as you proceed on your journey to obtain permanent residence in Canada. As skilled workers from around the world continue to flock to Canada, stay tuned for more information and perspectives.