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Canada Express Entry

Express Entry – Here Are 10 Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated On 30 November 2022, 6:36 PM EST (Toronto Time)

Express Entry (EE) is one of the most popular and fastest ways to get a permanent residency(PR) in Canada. The program allows skilled immigrants to live and work in Canada.

What is Express Entry System?

Express Entry is an electronic online system and process of obtaining PR in Canada. It is a system that is used to manage skilled worker applicants who want to get a PR in Canada. EE is not an immigration program in and of itself. However, this system manages applications submitted through different immigration programs. 

What are Different Programs Under Express Entry System?

The EE system applies to one of these Canadian economic immigration programs:



What is an Express Entry Profile?

Applicants have to make an expression of interest (EOI) in coming to Canada by creating an online Express Entry profile. You need to provide information about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, etc.

Also, you have to provide some personal information in this profile. Moreover, this profile is self-declared. So, any information you provide is based on your assessment.

Is Language Test Mandatory under EE?

You have to take an English/French language proficiency test to be eligible under EE. The common tests for English are IELTS and CELPIP. TEF is common for French language. Also, you can take both English and French language tests to improve your score. Most language tests results are valid only for two years.

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): CLB/NCLC level 7.
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): CLB/NCLC level 7 for NOC O and A. CLB/NCLC 5 level for NOC B.
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): CLB/NCLC level 5 in speaking and listening + CLB/NCLC level 4 in reading and writing.

Click here for CLB and NCLC language equivalency chart.

What is Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)?

CRS is the government’s internal mechanism for ranking candidates. It is based on the human capital, determined by factors like age, level of education and language ability. Under this system there are points allotted to applicants based on these factors. These points are your CRS score, that determine if you get an invitation to apply or not. 

How much funds are required?

There are no funds required if you are applying under Candian Experience Class. However, proof of funds are required for Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program as mentioned below. Learn here how to calculate proof of funds.

Number of
family members
Funds required
(in Canadian dollars)
1$13,310
2$16,570
3$20,371
4$24,733
5$28,052
6$31,638
7$35,224
For each additional family member$3,586

Express Entry Proof of Funds

What is a National Occupational Classification Code (NOC)?

Canada has broken down all possible occupations into a large database of codes called NOC codes. These codes help to organize and understand occupations in Canada. Express Entry targets skilled workers.

So, NOC codes are used to determine the skill level of a candidate’s work experience. Only work experience at NOC Skill Levels 0, A, and B, qualifies as skilled work.

How Long is the EE Profile Valid for?

Express entry profiles are valid for 12 month or until you receive an ITA. After 12 months, you can create a new profile. Also, once you receive an ITA your profile gets locked. As long as your profile is active you can edit the information.

What is the Processing Time for Express Entry Application?

Once you enter an EE pool, you have to wait to get an ITA. After you receive an ITA, you have to submit the documents. These are those for which you claimed points in the EE profile.

The processing of your application starts only after complete documents are submitted. Also, you have to pay the fees. The ideal time to process applications is usually six months. However, depending upon your profile and processing office this period may vary.

What Is The Current Processing Time for programs under Express Entry?

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 13 months
  • Federal Skilled Worker (FSWP): 26 months 
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): 47 months 
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via express entry: 18 months

  • STEM Targeted Express Entry Draw Sent 5,900 PR Invites | Dec 8

    As we expected, IRCC finally conducted the second STEM-targeted Express Entry draw, sending out 5,900 invitations to apply for permanent residency (PR).

    The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cutoff was 481 targeting 24 STEM occupations; a 5-point drop from the first STEM Express Entry draw on July 5, 2023.

    Below are the details of the STEM Express Entry draw today:

    • Category: STEM occupations
    • Number of invitations issued: 5,900
    • Rank required to be invited to apply: 5,900 or above
    • Date and time of round: December 8, 2023, at 03:02:52 UTC
    • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 481
    • Tie-breaking rule: November 25, 2023, at 09:48:36 UTC

    IRCC has now sent out 11,650 invitations to apply for permanent residency in three Express Entry rounds of invitations this week.

    Below are the other two Express Entry draws held this week:

    DescriptionDecember 7December 6
    Draw typeFrench focusedGeneral or all program draws
    Invitations1,0004,750
    CRS Cutoff470561
    Tie-breaking ruleOctober 3, 2023, at 04:45:27 UTCNovember 8, 2023, at 06:00:13 UTC
    Express Entry draws December 2023

    Full list of 24 STEM occupations eligible for Express Entry draw today

    NOC CodeOccupation
    20010Engineering managers
    20011Architecture and science managers
    20012Computer and information systems managers
    21200Architects
    21201Landscape Architects
    21202Urban and land use planners
    21203Land surveyors
    21210Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries
    21211Data scientists
    21220Cybersecurity specialists
    21221Business systems specialists
    21222Information systems specialists
    21223Database analysts and data administrators
    21230Computer systems developers and programmers
    21231Software engineers and designers
    21232Software developers and programmers
    21233Web designers
    21234Web developers and programmers
    21300Civil Engineers
    21310Electrical and electronics engineers
    21311Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
    21321Industrial and manufacturing engineers
    21322Metallurgical and materials engineers
    41400Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
    Occupations eligible for STEM-targeted draws

    CRS Score Distribution in the Pool


    CRS score range
    Number of candidates
    601-12004,525
    501-6005,457
    451-50060,014
    491-5006,634
    481-49010,335
    471-48017,312
    461-47014,165
    451-46011,568
    401-45053,502
    441-45010,885
    431-44011,111
    421-4309,973
    411-42010,608
    401-41010,925
    351-40058,457
    301-35030,148
    0-3005,267
    Total217,370
    CRS Score distribution in the pool


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  • Evolution of Express Entry Draws in 2023 and Your Odds

    The Express Entry draws in 2023 have been a roller-coaster ride for Canada permanent residency aspirants, witnessing first-ever introduced changes and rising cutoff scores.

    Category-based Express Entry draws became reality on June 28, 2023, with the first round of invitations focusing on healthcare occupations.

    Furthermore, the recent pause on draws since October 26. The problem with the pause in Express Entry draws is that the chances of an invitation to apply go even further away from the grasp of skilled immigrants inside and outside Canada with high hopes.

    The Express Entry has now shifted to even more highly skilled individuals with a stronger than ever profile in education, work experience, and high language proficiency.

    In this in-depth article, we delve into the complexities of Express Entry draws in 2023, exploring patterns, changes, and the influence on the dreams of individuals looking to make a new life in Canada.

    Evolution of Express Entry Draws in 2023

    As we enter the last month of 2023, Express Entry draws continue to be competitive and unpredictable for selecting candidates.

    Several factors contribute to the changing landscape of draws, influencing the frequency, size, and the required minimum CRS score for an ITA.

    Rising CRS Cutoff Score

    The CRS cutoff score in no program-specified draws is making ‘higher highs’ and ‘higher lows’.

    Once the CRS cutoff score drops into the territory of 500 due to predominantly skipping draws, the cutoff score jumps significantly.

    In 2023, we saw the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cutoff score of 531 in a ‘no program specified’ draw ever witnessed in Express Entry history.

    IRCC has not held any draws since October 26; chances are higher that we can see a cutoff score beyond 540 for all program draws.

    Targeted Draws

    Individuals with experience in 82 targeted occupations or with French fluency were rightly optimistic to at least bag an invitation to apply (ITA) with a low CRS score.

    Applicants in the pool with experience in agriculture, agri-food, and skilled trade occupations got invitations with a CRS score less than 390.

    Similarly, STEM, healthcare, and francophile rounds of invitations recorded a low CRS cutoff in comparison to ‘no program specified’ draws.

    Highest Number of Invitations in No Program-Specified Draws

    IRCC has issued 95,221 invitations to apply (ITAs) so far in 2023.

    38,925 invitations to apply have been issued since the introduction of targeted draws in the last week of June and out of them, around 55% are issued in non-program-specified draws.

    Almost half of the invitations have been attributed to category-based selections, which is the clear reason for the rise in the CRS cutoff score in ‘no program specified’ draws.

    Draw TypeInvitationsCRS Cutoff Score
    No program-specified draws22,025481-531
    Francophone invitations7,700375-486
    Healthcare invitations5,600431-476
    Trade invitations1,500388
    Transport invitations1,000435
    Agriculture and agri-food invitations600354
    STEM invitations500486
    Total38,925
    Invitations and CRS score distribution since introduction of category-based draws

    Always remember that the above targeted selection criteria were chosen in 2023 and will again be reviewed in 2024. So, there could be the addition or deletion of occupations or sectors.

    Express Entry Glitches

    Technical glitches continue to haunt the Express Entry system, creating uncertainty for most applicants in the pool with the absence of draws throughout November 2023.

    With this absence, expectations are high that the 531 CRS cutoff record will now be breached in any of the upcoming ‘no program specified’ rounds of invitations.

    Express Entry glitches are not new and their occurrence in November could be a coincidence from last year and this year.

    Last year, the IRCC adapted the new 2021 national occupation classification (NOC) system and as a result, there was a technical glitch causing a pause on Express Entry draws.

    This year again, there was a pause, comparatively longer in November, because of a technical glitch affecting the profile builder.

    The Impact on Prospective Immigrants

    The developing landscape of draws in 2023 provides both opportunities and considerations for persons navigating the Express Entry system.

    Understanding the important patterns might assist potential immigrants’ strategies as they prepare and optimize their profiles.

    Building an Express Entry profile is free, and if you are eligible for one of the programs, do make your profile.

    However, candidates in the pool with a CRS score below 490 and not qualifying for any category of Express Entry draws need to work on increasing their score in one way or another to ensure their selection.

    Below is what we are suggesting for candidates in the pool based on their CRS score:

    CRS Score RangeStrategy
    530+Wait for next draws
    500-530Maintain your profile and watch out for PNPs or any opportunity to boost your CRS score
    <500Work on increasing your CRS score to 500+ or work on:

    1. qualifying for one of the category-based draws
    2. exploring provincial nominee programs (PNPs) to get nominations
    3. getting certificate of qualification
    4. getting job offer from Canadian employer

    Suggestions for category-based draws

    Express Entry CategoryOdds
    STEMExpectations are high for STEM-targeted draws, but CRS cutoff score could also be high in the 470–490 range, depending on the size of draw
    HealthcareDraws after regular interval are expected, but CRS cutoff score may rise as compared to previous healthcare draw
    FrenchThis is our second-best category and if your CRS score is 400 or even less, then you still have odds of receiving a provincial nomination
    TransportLess frequent draws are expected given the less occupations qualifying for transport draws
    Skilled TradesBest category of all, with a CRS cutoff score expected to be lower than other categories and high chances of receiving a provincial nomination.
    Agriculture and Agri-foodLess frequent draws are expected

    Conclusion

    The journey for prospective immigrants is characterized by optimism, strategic planning, and adaptability as Express Entry draws continue to shape the immigration landscape in Canada.

    From a Canadian government standpoint, Express Entry is now proving to welcome newcomers, scoring even more on skills and experience, but retaining such highly skilled immigrants continues to be challenging.

    For those aspiring to make Canada their home, the dynamic nature of the draws emphasizes the importance of being proactive, strategic, and well-informed.

    Canada Express Entry Draws 2023

    What is Express Entry?

    The Canadian government uses Express Entry, an online system, to manage applications for permanent residence under specific economic immigration programs.

    The system operates on a regular basis, with candidates in the Express Entry pool receiving Invitations to Apply (ITAs) depending on their CRS scores.

    The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a point-based system that assesses candidates based on a variety of variables, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.

    During Express Entry drawings, the highest-ranking candidates obtain ITAs, allowing them to apply for permanent residency.

    Click here for more details on the Express Entry system.


    Canada Issues 24,720 New PR Invitations In August 2023

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  • Why There Is No Express Entry Draw

    There has been no Express Entry draw this week so far, while we are all expecting a round of invitations since the last one was on October 26, 2023.

    The usual frequency of Express Entry draws is every two weeks. However, IRCC has skipped biweekly draws in the past too, so it is not new.

    In this article, we pin-point two possible reasons for the ‘no Express Entry draw‘ announced this week.

    Express Entry System Glitch

    Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has added a new address field of ZIP/PIN/postal code to profiles in the Express Entry profiles for primary applicants.

    This new field is also added to the dependent family member’s section if you have a spouse or dependent added as a family member.

    This has resulted in Express Entry profiles being struck as “in progress” for these sections.

    Users have also reported that the system is not updating even after they updated the new address fields. The IRCC is currently working on resolving this glitch.

    So this could be the major reason why IRCC has not held any Express Entry draws this week.

    As per the latest official IRCC update of November 29, the issue regarding the Express Entry profile builder still persists.

    As a result, IRCC has sent an email to all the affected candidates who received an invitation to apply on September 26th, September 27th, and September 28th giving them more time to submit the application.

    • 11/26/2023 expiry changed to 01/26/2024
    • 11/27/2023 expiry changed to 01/27/2024
    • 11/28/2023 expiry changed to 01/28/2024

    As per the official IRCC email, there is no date yet for a fix, but the department is working urgently to fix the issue.

    Previously, on November 16, IRCC said the technical glitch with the Express Entry builder is now resolved.

    This is expected to be the major reason for no Express Entry draw this week.

    Updating Certificate of Qualification Occupations

    Another possible reason could be that IRCC has updated the list of occupations eligible for a certificate of qualification by removing truck drivers from it.

    A certificate of qualification (COQ) gives 50 additional points to Express Entry profiles and with this new update, truck drivers who have marked ‘yes’ to COQ will have to change it back to ‘no.’

    Truck drivers are part of category-based Express Entry draws for the transportation sector and this could also be the reason that IRCC wants to give truckers ample time to update their profiles.

    Although an update to this list by the IRCC could be because some profiles in the Transport Occupations targeted draw on September 20 might have been incorrectly invited due to the addition of 50 points for COQ.

    An initial assessment of those submitted applications could have warranted the IRCC removing truck drivers from the COQ list since they did not qualify for these 50 points.

    Express Entry Next Draw Prediction

    We expect that the glitch affecting the Express Entry system will be resolved soon and the draws will resume.

    Whatever the reason, there was no express entry draw this week, but the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cutoff will definitely increase as compared to what we would have seen this week.

    Progress on decreasing the CRS cutoff score has again hit a roadblock and we can expect an Express Entry draw next week.

    Fingers crossed and we hope that IRCC does not skip the draw next week because it will then cause a further increase in the CRS cutoff score.

    Express Entry 2023 Summary

    Draw TypeInvitationsCRS Cutoff Score
    No program-specified draws70,625481-531
    Francophone invitations7,700375-486
    Healthcare invitations5,600431-476
    Federal Skilled Worker3,300489
    PNP only4,396691-791
    Trade invitations1,500388
    Transport invitations1,000435
    Agriculture and agri-food invitations600354
    STEM invitations500486
    Express Entry draws 2023


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  • Express Entry Draw History and Latest Analysis | Nov 2023

    Canada aspirants often confuse Express Entry draw invitations with the annual immigration targets and assume that IRCC will not hold any other round of invitations because the yearly quota has been reached.

    However, this is not how Express Entry invitations and the annual immigration level plan work. Annual targets are not equal to the number of invitations issued in a particular year.

    Canada is aiming to welcome 110,770 new permanent residents (PRs) via the Express Entry system as per the new immigration levels plan for 2024–2027.

    But this doesn’t mean that IRCC will only be sending 110,770 invitations to apply in 2024.

    The annual immigration targets set by Canada are for the number of new permanent residents who activate their permanent residency at any Canadian port of entry, not the ones who are even approved.

    Furthermore, these also include temporary residents in Canada who get permanent residency via Express Entry and confirm their PR online or at any port of entry.

    Express Entry Draw History Since 2015

    The Express Entry system was introduced in 2015, with the first round of invitations announced on January 31, sending only 779 invitations to apply with a CRS cutoff score of 886.

    There have been a total of 272 Express Entry draws since 2015.

    In 2015, Express Entry sent a total of 31,063 invitations to apply with lowest CRS cutoff score of 450 and all were ‘no program specified draws.’

    The number of invitations to apply has continued to increase since then, with the highest (114,224) invitations to apply sent in 2021.

    This includes the largest single draw of 27,332 invitations for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) with a CRS cutoff score of 75.

    Prior to that, IRCC sent out 107,350 invitations in 2020. This was the actual year with the highest number of invitations and consistent draws for all categories.

    YearNumber of
    Invitations
    Annual Express
    Entry Targets
    Overall Annual
    Permanent
    Resident Targets
    2024To be announced110,770485,000
    202395,22182,880
    (additional 25,000
    allocated to Tr to PR)
    465,000
    202246,53955,900
    (additional 40,000
    allocated to Tr to PR)
    431,645
    2021114,224108,500401,000
    2020107,35091,800341,000
    201985,30081,400330,800
    201889,80074,900290,000
    201786,02373,700 (2017 targets included
    Atlantic Immigration Pilot)
    300,000
    201633,78258,400300,000
    201531,06368,000–74,000260,000-285,000
    Express Entry Draw History

    It is evident from the above table that the number of invitations has exceeded the annual targets in recent years, except in 2022, 2016, and 2015.

    Historical Lowest CRS Cutoff Scores

    The lowest CRS cutoff score was noted in a Federal Skilled Trades (FST) draw on May 26, 2017 of 199, but IRCC is no longer holding any FST draws now other than the skilled trades category-based draws.

    Among the new category-based Express Entry draws, the Trades-targeted draw has the lowest CRS cutoff score of 388 in 2023.

    ‘No Program Specified’ Express Entry draw on May 31, 2017 recorded the lowest CRS cutoff score of 413, issuing 3,877 invitations to apply.

    Canadian Experience Class draws recorded the lowest CRS cutoff score of 357 in June and July of 2021, other than the 75 cutoff score in an unexpected CEC draw during the same year.

    Provincial Nominee Program draws had the lowest CRS cutoff score of 673 in November 2017 and 674 in February 2022, and one of the lowest cutoffs at 691 in May 2023.

    Should We Expect More Express Entry Draws in 2023?

    IRCC has a service standard of processing Express Entry applications within 6 months and the current official processing time shows 80% of the CEC and FSW applications are being processed within 5 months.

    IRCC should be conducting more Express Entry draws in 2023, given that most of the candidates who submitted their applications after August–September 2023 will be processed in 2024 and contribute to next year’s immigration targets.

    Furthermore, all the new invitations to apply sent in the upcoming draws of this year will be processed in 2024 only and have nothing to do with the 2023 targets.

    So there should be more draws, but the CRS cutoff score is expected to be high because there has been no Express Entry draw since October 26.


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  • Truckers Removed From Express Entry Certificate of Qualification List

    Today, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) removed truck drivers from the list of occupations eligible for a certificate of qualification.

    In an IRCC program delivery update on November 6, the department instructed it’s staff that the NOC code for transport truck drivers had been removed from the official Certificate of Qualification list.

    So truck drivers in the Express Entry pool claiming points for certificates of qualification for the MELT program or their licensing should update their profiles immediately to avoid any misrepresentation, just in case IRCC conducts a transport-targeted Express Entry draw this week.

    What is a certificate of qualification?

    The certificate of qualification demonstrates an individual’s eligibility to work in a certain skilled trade in Canada, reflecting that they possess all the necessary qualifications to practice their trade in that province or territory, including passing a certification exam.

    An organization in charge of regulating commerce in a Canadian province or territory or a federal agency is the one who issues this certificate.

    This certificate may be referred to as a “certificate of qualification” or a “qualification certificate,” depending on the organization or entity that issued it.

    How does the certificate of qualification benefit Express Entry applicants?

    Up to 50 extra Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points can be added to an Express Entry profile with a proof of certification in one of these eligible occupations.

    The best part is that you can obtain these 50 CRS points without having to have prior job experience in any of these occupations; all you need to do is obtain a certificate of qualification.

    Moreover, obtaining these extra points does not require a work offer from a Canadian business.

    Therefore, we advise enrolling in one of these skilled trades programs if you are a resident of Canada and have a valid Express Entry profile or intend to create one.

    After mastering one of these trades, you can pass an exam and obtain a certification certificate from any province in Canada.

    How to get Certificate of Qualification

    Every Canadian province and territory has its own standards for certificates of qualification and certification procedures.

    You can go to the websites of the relevant regulatory body for your province or territory by clicking on the links below:

    Alberta
    British Columbia
    Manitoba
    New Brunswick
    Newfoundland and Labrador
    Northwest Territories
    Nova Scotia
    Nunavut
    Ontario
    Prince Edward Island
    Saskatchewan
    Yukon

    You can also visit the official Canadian website for information on skilled trades that are subject to federal law.

    Full List of Occupations eligible for Certificate of Qualification with NOC codes

    1. 22114: Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists
    2. 22212: Drafting technologists and technicians
    3. 22311: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
    4. 22312: Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics
    5. 62200: Chefs
    6. 63200: Cooks
    7. 63201: Butchers (retail and wholesale)
    8. 63202: Bakers
    9. 63210: Hairstylists and Barbers
    10. 72010: Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations
    11. 72011: Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations
    12. 72012: Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades
    13. 72013: Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
    14. 72014: Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers
    15. 72020: Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
    16. 72021: Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
    17. 72022: Supervisors, printing and related occupations
    18. 72023: Supervisors, railway transport operations
    19. 72024: Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators
    20. 72025: Supervisors, mail and message distribution occupations
    21. 72100: Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
    22. 72101: Tool and die makers
    23. 72102: Sheet metal workers
    24. 72103: Boilermakers
    25. 72104: Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
    26. 72105: Ironworkers
    27. 72106: Welders and related machine operators
    28. 72200: Electricians (except industrial and power system)
    29. 72201: Industrial electricians
    30. 72202: Power system electricians
    31. 72203: Electrical power line and cable workers
    32. 72204: Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers
    33. 72205: Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians
    34. 72300: Plumbers
    35. 72301: Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
    36. 72302: Gas fitters
    37. 72310: Carpenters
    38. 72311: Cabinetmakers
    39. 72320: Bricklayers
    40. 72321: Insulators
    41. 72400: Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
    42. 72401: Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
    43. 72402: Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
    44. 72403: Railway carmen/women
    45. 72404: Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
    46. 72405: Machine fitters
    47. 72406: Elevator constructors and mechanics
    48. 72410: Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
    49. 72411: Auto body collision, refinishing, glass technicians and damage repair estimators
    50. 72420: Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics
    51. 72421: Appliance servicers and repairers
    52. 72422: Electrical mechanics
    53. 72423: Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics
    54. 72429: Other small engine and small equipment repairers
    55. 72500: Crane operators
    56. 72501: Water well drillers
    57. 72999: Other technical trades and related occupations
    58. 73100: Concrete finishers
    59. 73101: Tilesetters
    60. 73102: Plasterers, drywall installers, finishers and lathers
    61. 73110: Roofers and shinglers
    62. 73111: Glaziers
    63. 73112: Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
    64. 73113: Floor covering installers
    65. 73200: Residential and commercial installers and servicers
    66. 73201: General building maintenance workers and building superintendents
    67. 73202: Pest controllers and fumigators
    68. 73209: Other repairers and servicers
    69. 73301: Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators
    70. 73310: Railway and yard locomotive engineers
    71. 73311: Railway conductors and brakemen/women
    72. 73400: Heavy equipment operators
    73. 73401: Printing press operators
    74. 73402: Drillers and blasters—surface mining, quarrying and construction
    75. 82010: Supervisors, logging and forestry
    76. 82020: Supervisors, mining and quarrying
    77. 82021: Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services
    78. 82030: Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors
    79. 82031: Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services
    80. 83100: Underground production and development miners
    81. 83101: Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers and related workers
    82. 83110: Logging machinery operators
    83. 83120: Fishing masters and officers
    84. 83121: Fishermen/women
    85. 92010: Supervisors, mineral and metal processing
    86. 92011: Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing, and utilities
    87. 92012: Supervisors, food and beverage processing
    88. 92013: Supervisors, plastic and rubber product manufacturing
    89. 92014: Supervisors, forest products processing
    90. 92015: Supervisors, textile, fabric, fur and leather products processing and manufacturing
    91. 92020: Supervisors, motor vehicle assembling
    92. 92021: Supervisors, electronics and electrical products manufacturing
    93. 92022: Supervisors, furniture and fixtures manufacturing
    94. 92023: Supervisors, other mechanical and metal products manufacturing
    95. 92024: Supervisors, other products manufacturing and assembly
    96. 92100: Power engineers and power systems operators
    97. 92101: Water and waste treatment plant operators
    98. 93100: Central control and process operators, mineral and metal processing
    99. 93101: Central control and process operators, petroleum, gas and chemical processing
    100. 93102: Pulping, papermaking and coating control operators


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  • New Express Entry Applicants No Longer Need Upfront Medical Exam

    IRCC made changes to Immigration Medical Exam (IME) requirement for Express Entry applicants on the October 1, 2023 allowing them to submit applications without an upfront medical exam.

    While this is good news for Express Entry applicants who receive an invitation to apply (ITA), it is also important to understand what it exactly means.

    What exactly is the new Express Entry Medical update?

    Effective October 1, 2023, IRCC will no longer need Express Entry applicants and their family members to provide an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) at the time of submitting their application.

    As per the IRCC update, you will be prompted to attach proof of your upfront medical exam in your Profile Builder while submitting your application after receiving an invitation to apply (ITA), but this is no longer required.

    • If you previously completed an immigration medical exam (IME) as part of another application, then you can include it in your current application using the same upload slot.
      • Applicants must include the IME or UMI number from their most recent medical examination.

    ‘OR’

    • If you have never completed an immigration medical exam (IME), you can upload a blank document in the same upload slot.
    • Furthermore, IRCC will send you instructions on when to complete your medical exam if they need it.

    Previously, IRCC made it mandatory for Express Entry applicants to submit upfront medical exam in July 2022. So this has now been reversed.

    What Is An Immigration Medical Exam?

    You must undergo an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) in order to get Canadian permanent residency (PR) or even temporary residency.

    This is to ensure that you are not medically inadmissible to Canada. A group of medical professionals with IRCC licenses lead an IME.

    In Canada, there are two kinds of immigration medical exams. An Upfront Immigration Medical Exam is different from the standard Immigration Medical Exam.

    For those who do not have an application in the eMedical system, an upfront medical exam is recommended.

    After receiving an IME letter, you typically visit a panel physician for a medical examination.

    Panel doctors may, though, occasionally perform an examination without an IME letter. Consequently, an upfront medical checkup essentially consists of this.


  • Canada Sent 17,145 New PR Invites in PNP & Express Entry Draws in Sep 2023

    Canada sent out 17,145 new permanent residency invitations in the month of September 2023 through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws.

    Compared to August 2023, Canada issued 7,575 fewer PR invitations in the month of September, with Ontario PNP sending only 2,677 invitations this time.

    Express Entry Draws

    The IRCC held five Express Entry draws in September, inviting 8,300 people to submit applications for permanent residence (PR).

    IRCC announced back-to-back ‘no program specified’ rounds of invitations for two consecutive weeks, issuing 6,200 ITAs.

    DateRound typeInvitations issuedCRS score cutoff
    September 28, 2023Agriculture and agri-food occupations600354
    September 27, 2023French language proficiency 500472
    September 26, 2023No Program Specified3,000504
    September 20, 2023Transport occupations1,000435
    September 19, 2023No Program Specified3,200531
    Express Entry draws September 2023

    Furthermore, IRCC also introduced category-based Express Entry draws for transport and agriculture/food occupations for the first time ever.

    Express Entry has issued a total of 86,048 invitations to apply for permanent residency so far in 2023.

    Click here for all the Express Entry draws.

    Ontario PNP Draws

    The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced six new provincial nominee program (PNP) rounds of invitations in the month of September.

    In these rounds of invitations, OINP issued a total of 2,677 invitations for permanent residency, with the majority of these going to the Human Capital Priorities stream.

    OINP Express Entry invitations

    OINP Express Entry streamsDateInvitationsCRS score rangeNotes
    Human Capital Priorities stream
    September 26, 20231,696350-462Targeted draw for healthcare-related occupations
    French-Speaking Skilled Worker streamSeptember 21, 202363348-434General draw
    French-Speaking Skilled Worker streamSeptember 7, 2023300308-434General draw
    OINP Express Entry draws

    OINP Expression of Interest Invitations

    OINP StreamDate issuedInvitationsScore range
    Masters Graduate streamSeptember 19, 202353741 and above
    PhD Graduate streamSeptember 19, 20237140 and above
    Entrepreneur stream
    September 25, 202310136 to 163
    OINP EOI Draws

    Click here for latest OINP Draws

    Quebec Arrima Draws

    The Quebec Arrima draws in the month of September sent out a total of 2,451 invitations to apply for permanent residency in two rounds of invitations.

    Quebec Arrima considered profiles having CLB level 7 in French and meeting the below-listed criteria in these draws:

    DateInvitationsCutoff ScoreDescription
    September 21, 20231,018579Targeted for 27
    occupations
    September 7, 20231,433586
    General
    Quebec arrima draws September 2023

    Quebec has already issued 14,791 invitations to apply (ITAs) in the 14 Arrima rounds of invitations this year.

    Click here for all the Quebec Arrima Draws.

    Manitoba PNP Draws

    The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) sent out 2,292 permanent residency invitations in four PNP draws in September, as listed below:

    DateInvitationsDescription
    September 29, 202342A special immigration measure for Ukrainians
    September 28, 20231,072Only for Skilled Workers Overseas category
    September 21, 2023620All the categories
    September 7, 2023558All the categories
    MPNP Draws 2023

    Click here for all the Manitoba PNP draws.

    British Columbia PNP Draws

    The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) sent out more than 834 permanent residency invitations during September 2023, as listed below:

    DateInvitationsDraw Type
    September 26, 2023204Targeted draws for Tech, ECE, Healthcare occupations
    September 19, 2023225General and targeted draws
    September 12, 2023183Targeted draws for Tech, ECE, Healthcare occupations
    September 6, 2023222General and targeted draws
    BC PNP Draws September 2023

    Click here for all the BC PNP draws.

    Alberta Express Entry draws

    Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) sent out only 476 invitations offering provincial nomination in four Express Entry draws in September, as listed below:

    DateInvitationsDraw selection criteriaCRS Cutoff
    September 26, 202318Dedicated Healthcare Pathway with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above311
    September 14, 2023142Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500301
    September 12, 202316Dedicated Healthcare Pathway with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above327
    September 12, 2023300Priority sector – Tourism and hospitality occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500383
    Alberta Express Entry draws – September 2023

    Alberta has issued a total of 3,487 invitations to apply in 37 Express Entry draws so far in 2023.

    Click here for all the latest Alberta Express Entry draws and processing update.

    Prince Edward Island PNP Draws

    Prince Edward Island PNP sent out a total of 153 permanent residency invitations in September in just one round of invitations in the Critical Worker stream to individuals working for a PEI employer with a minimum EOI score of 55.

    4 Business Work Permit Entrepreneur invitations were issued to profiles with a score of 80 or above.

    In total, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) has issued 2,018 permanent residency invitations so far in 2023.

    How many invitations have the IRCC Express Entry draws issued in 2023?

    86,048 invitations to apply (ITAs) have been issued in 31 Express Entry draws so far in 2023.


  • New Express Entry Draw For Agriculture & Agri-Food Occupations Is Now Out

    Today, IRCC unveiled the new Express Entry draw, first-ever, for profiles with experience in agriculture and agri-food occupations.

    Below are the full details of the targeted Express Entry draw for agriculture and agri-food occupations.

    • Number of invitations issued: 600
    • Rank required to be invited to apply: 600 or above
    • Date and time of round: September 28, 2023, at 16:45:09 UTC
    • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 354
    • Tie-breaking rule: June 12, 2023, at 10:23:21 UTC

    With these new rounds of invitations, Canada will be able to attract the qualified people it needs, with a focus on applicants with expertise in the agriculture and agri-food industries, such as retail and wholesale butchers, farm supervisors, and agricultural service contractors.

    This new Express Entry round of invitations targets individuals with at least 6 months of experience in one of the below-listed occupations.

    82031 – Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services

    • Example job titles:
      • Greenhouse supervisor
      • Grounds maintenance contractor
      • Groundskeeping supervisor
      • Horticulture workers supervisor
      • Interior plantscaping contractor
      • Landscaping contractor
      • Landscaping foreman/woman
      • Landscaping supervisor
      • Lawn care contractor
      • Nursery foreman/woman
      • Park maintenance supervisor
      • Tree service contractor

    82030 – Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors

    • Example job titles:
      • Artificial insemination service contractor
      • Crop harvesting service contractor
      • Farm foreman/woman
      • Farm supervisor
      • Feedlot foreman/woman
      • Hog operation supervisor
      • Livestock breeding service contractor
      • Poultry farm foreman/woman
      • Ranch foreman/woman
      • Vegetable farm foreman/woman

    63201 – Butchers – retail and wholesale

    • Example job titles:
      • Apprentice butcher – retail or wholesale
      • Butcher – butcher shop
      • Head butcher – wholesale
      • Retail butcher

    Our Expectation from this new Express Entry draw

    We are expecting that the number of invitations may stay between 500 and 700, and the IRCC will be unveiling details of this draw tomorrow.

    With only 3 occupations eligible for the Agriculture and Agri-Food round of invitations, we expect to see the lowest CRS cutoff score ever among the category-based Express Entry draws.

    Canada maintains its commitment to attracting top talent from across the world and assisting in addressing the need for workers in agriculture and agri-food to boost the economy through the Agri-Food Pilot and category-based selection.

    By giving priority to inviting qualified immigrants with past work experience in agriculture and agri-food positions, Canada hopes to address the growing need for talent and staff in critical roles that progress the country’s farming and food processing industries.

    All The Express Entry draws – September 2023

    DateRound typeInvitations issuedCRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited
    September 28, 2023Targeted for 3 Agriculture and Agri-food occupations600354
    September 27, 2023Targeted for profiles having
    level 7 in French
    500472
    September 26, 2023No Program Specified3,000504
    September 20, 2023Targeted for 10
    Transportation
    occupations
    1,000435
    September 19, 2023No Program Specified3,200531
    Express Entry draws September 2023

    What is Express Entry?

    Express Entry system is Canada’s most popular and fastest way of geting Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through one of the programs managed by this application management system.

    Individuals can immigrate to Canada through its Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and some parts of the Provincial Nominee Program.

    What are Express Entry category-based selections?

    On May 31, 2023, former Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser announced the introduction of a new procedure called category-based selection, which will allow qualified immigrants with work experience in 82 occupations to have better odds of becoming permanent residents filling in the existing labour market gaps in one of the below listed sectors:

    1. Healthcare Occupations
    2. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
    3. Trade occupations
    4. Transport occupations
    5. Agriculture and agri-food occupations


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  • New Express Entry Draw Today Invites 3,200 Profiles For PR

    IRCC sent out 3,200 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a new Express Entry draw today, considering profiles from all the programs.

    The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score jumped significantly by 35 points from 496 to 531 because of the absence of any round of invitations since August 15, 2023.

    Below are the details of the Express Entry draw today:

    • No Program Specified
    • Number of invitations issued: 3,200
    • Rank required to be invited to apply: 3,200 or above
    • Date and time of round: September 19, 2023 at 15:04:11 UTC
    • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 531
    • Tie-breaking rule: September 12, 2023 at 12:16:31 UTC

    IRCC will also be unveiling its first targeted draw for transport occupations. You can check for updates here.

    IRCC has invited a total of 80,948 profiles in 26 Express Entry draws this year.

    In 2023, the CRS threshold ranges from as low as 375 in the Francophile draw to 463 for 35 Healthcare occupations, 486 for 24 STEM occupations, and 531 in the recent no program specified draw today on September 19, 2023.

    CRS Score Distribution in the Pool: September 19

    CRS score rangeNumber of candidates
    601-12002,637
    501-6003,091
    451-50058,838
    491-5003,596
    481-4908,510
    471-48019,326
    461-47015,170
    451-46012,236
    401-45054,240
    441-45011,331
    431-44011,601
    421-4309,813
    411-42010,414
    401-41011,081
    351-40060,575
    301-35031,418
    0-3005,236
    Total216,035
    CRS Score distribution in the pool

    What is Express Entry?

    Canada Express Entry is an online application management system, that IRCC uses to select candidates for permanent residency based on their Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS).

    Express Entry is in charge of administering the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.

    When determining who to invite to apply for Canadian permanent residency, the CRS considers factors including work experience, industry, language skills, education, age, and more.

    When an eligible Express Entry candidate creates their profile on the IRCC website, they are assigned a CRS number and placed in a classification pool with other candidates based on these factors.

    Candidates with high CRS Scores have the best chance of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

    What occupations are being targeted by Express Entry system in 2023?

    In 2023, new occupation based Express Entry draws are focusing on candidates who have at least 6 months of work experience in the last 3 years in one of the following sectors:

    1. healthcare
    2. science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
    3. trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
    4. transport
    5. agriculture and agri-food

    You can obtain a comprehensive list of occupations with NOC codes for each sector by clicking on the links above.

    Always stay updated with the latest Canada Immigration News with INC – Immigration News Canada – INC News


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  • New Express Entry Certificate of Qualification Occupation List

    The IRCC officially updated the list of trade occupations eligible for Express Entry certificates of qualification on September 8, 2023.

    This list initially had a total of 101 occupations including truck drivers, but on November 6, 2023 IRCC removed truck drivers from the list of occupations eligible for certificate of qualification.

    The best thing about this is that there is no need for previous work experience in any of these occupations; you just need to get a certificate of qualification for one of these 101 occupations.

    A certificate of qualification awards up to 50 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points to an Express Entry profile.

    Furthermore, there is no need for a job offer from a Canadian employer to get these additional points.

    So if you are someone inside Canada with a valid Express Entry profile or are planning on making one, then we can suggest enrolling in one of these skilled trades programs.

    Once getting fluent in one of these trades, you can then clear an examination to get a certificate of qualification from one of the Canadian provinces.

    There are also high chances that we could now see Express Entry draw for Transport and/or Trade occupations.

    Full List of 101 Occupations Eligible for Express Entry Certificate of Qualification

    1. Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists – 22114
    2. Drafting technologists and technicians – 22212
    3. Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment) – 22311
    4. Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics – 22312
    5. Chefs – 62200
    6. Cooks – 63200
    7. Butchers – retail and wholesale – 63201
    8. Bakers – 63202
    9. Hairstylists and Barbers – 63210
    10. Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations – 72010
    11. Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations – 72011
    12. Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades – 72012
    13. Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades – 72013
    14. Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers – 72014
    15. Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades – 72020
    16. Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews – 72021
    17. Supervisors, printing and related occupations – 72022
    18. Supervisors, railway transport operations – 72023
    19. Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators – 72024
    20. Supervisors, mail and message distribution occupations – 72025
    21. Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors – 72100
    22. Tool and die makers – 72101
    23. Sheet metal workers – 72102
    24. Boilermakers – 72103
    25. Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters – 72104
    26. Ironworkers – 72105
    27. Welders and related machine operators – 72106
    28. Electricians (except industrial and power system) – 72200
    29. Industrial electricians – 72201
    30. Power system electricians – 72202
    31. Electrical power line and cable workers – 72203
    32. Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers – 72204
    33. Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians – 72205
    34. Plumbers – 72300
    35. Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers – 72301
    36. Gas fitters – 72302
    37. Carpenters – 72310
    38. Cabinetmakers – 72311
    39. Bricklayers – 72320
    40. Insulators – 72321
    41. Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics – 72400
    42. Heavy-duty equipment mechanics – 72401
    43. Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics – 72402
    44. Railway carmen/women – 72403
    45. Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors – 72404
    46. Machine fitters – 72405
    47. Elevator constructors and mechanics – 72406
    48. Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers – 72410
    49. Auto body collision, refinishing and glass technicians and damage repair estimators – 72411
    50. Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics – 72420
    51. Appliance servicers and repairers – 72421
    52. Electrical mechanics – 72422
    53. Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics – 72423
    54. Other small engine and small equipment repairers – 72429
    55. Crane operators – 72500
    56. Water well drillers – 72501
    57. Other technical trades and related occupations – 72999
    58. Concrete finishers – 73100
    59. Tilesetters – 73101
    60. Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers – 73102
    61. Roofers and shinglers – 73110
    62. Glaziers – 73111
    63. Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) – 73112
    64. Floor covering installers – 73113
    65. Residential and commercial installers and servicers – 73200
    66. General building maintenance workers and building superintendents – 73201
    67. Pest controllers and fumigators – 73202
    68. Other repairers and servicers – 73209
    69. Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators – 73301
    70. Railway and yard locomotive engineers – 73310
    71. Railway conductors and brakemen/women – 73311
    72. Heavy equipment operators – 73400
    73. Printing press operators – 73401
    74. Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying and construction – 73402
    75. Supervisors, logging and forestry – 82010
    76. Supervisors, mining and quarrying – 82020
    77. Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services – 82021
    78. Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors – 82030
    79. Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services – 82031
    80. Underground production and development miners – 83100
    81. Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers and related workers – 83101
    82. Logging machinery operators – 83110
    83. Fishing masters and officers – 83120
    84. Fishermen/women – 83121
    85. Supervisors, mineral and metal processing – 92010
    86. Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing and utilities – 92011
    87. Supervisors, food and beverage processing – 92012
    88. Supervisors, plastic and rubber products manufacturing – 92013
    89. Supervisors, forest products processing – 92014
    90. Supervisors, textile, fabric, fur and leather products processing and manufacturing – 92015
    91. Supervisors, motor vehicle assembling – 92020
    92. Supervisors, electronics and electrical products manufacturing – 92021
    93. Supervisors, furniture and fixtures manufacturing – 92022
    94. Supervisors, other mechanical and metal products manufacturing – 92023
    95. Supervisors, other products manufacturing and assembly – 92024
    96. Power engineers and power systems operators – 92100
    97. Water and waste treatment plant operators – 92101
    98. Central control and process operators, mineral and metal processing – 93100
    99. Central control and process operators, petroleum, gas and chemical processing – 93101
    100. Pulping, papermaking and coating control operators – 93102

    To receive skill transferability factor CRS points for a certificate of qualification in a trade occupation, the certificate must be issued by a province or territory’s governing body for trades.

    What is a certificate of qualification?

    A certificate of qualification demonstrates that an individual is qualified to work in a particular skilled trade, i.e., that they have passed a certification exam and satisfy all requirements to practice their trade in that province or territory.

    How to get a certificate of qualification in Canada?

    In Canada every province or territory has its own certification process and certificate of qualification requirements.

    You can visit the below listed websites of the regulatory authority based on your province or territory of interest:

    Alberta
    British Columbia
    Manitoba
    New Brunswick
    Newfoundland and Labrador
    Northwest Territories
    Nova Scotia
    Nunavut
    Ontario
    Prince Edward Island
    Saskatchewan
    Yukon

    You can also visit the official website of Canada for federally regulated skilled trades.


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  • Canada Issues 24,720 New PR Invitations In August 2023

    Canada sent out 24,720 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) in 36 new rounds of invitations under various Canadian immigration programs during the month of August 2023.

    This is an almost 55% increase in the total number of invitations for permanent residency as compared to the total invitations sent in July 2023.

    During the month of August 2023, Ontario issued the most PR invitations, followed by the Express Entry draws and provincial nominee programs of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, and Prince Edward Island.

    Below is a summary of new permanent residency invitations issued in the month of August 2023.

    Permanent Residency
    Programs/Streams
    Total
    Invitations
    Number
    Of Draws
    Ontario PNP or OINP9,90612
    Express Entry System8,6004
    Manitoba PNP1,5484
    Saskatchewan PNP1,3841
    Quebec Arrima System1,3841
    British Columbia PNP8614
    Alberta Express Entry Stream8157
    Prince Edward Island PNP2223
    Total24,720
    New Permanent Residency Invitations August 2023

    Ontario PNP Draws Summary

    The Ontario Provincial Nominee Program or Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) sent out a whopping 9,906 invitations in three Express Entry draws and nine Expression of Interest draws.

    To be clear for the readers, interested candidates need to create a profile with OINP to be considered for Expression of Interest draws.

    However, OINP Express Entry draws directly invites profiles from the Express Entry pool based on Ontario’s labour market needs.

    5,679 out of 9,906 OINP invitations this month went out to Express Entry profiles, offering them provincial nominations that will bestow 600 additional points.

    StreamDate NOIs issuedNumber of NOIs issuedCRS score rangeDescription
    Human Capital Priorities streamAugust 11–16, 20232,835473-516Targeted draw for:
    42 Healthcare occupations
    9 Tech occupations
    Skilled Trades streamAugust 3, 20232,844250-516Targeted draw for 46 occupations or NOCs.
    OINP Express Entry Draws August 2023

    The rest of the invitations were sent in OINP Expression of Interest (EOI) draws, as listed below:

    OINP EOI StreamDateInvitationsCutoff ScoreDescription
    Masters Graduate StreamAugust 30, 202377244 and aboveGeneral Draw
    Foreign Worker streamAugust 15, 202337530 and aboveTargeted draw for 54 skilled trades occupations
    Foreign Worker streamAugust 15, 20231,13146 and aboveTargeted draw for 42 health and 11 tech occupations
    International Student streamAugust 15, 202340861 and aboveTargeted draw for 54 skilled trades occupations
    International Student streamAugust 15, 202344561 and aboveTargeted draw for 54 skilled trades occupations
    In-Demand Skills streamAugust 15, 202325623 and aboveTargeted draw for 22 in-demand occupations
    Foreign Worker streamAugust 1, 20231N/ATargeted draw for Economic Mobility Pathways
    Masters Graduate StreamAugust 1, 202375548 and aboveGeneral Draw
    Phd Graduate StreamAugust 1, 20238439 and aboveGeneral Draw
    OINP Draws August 2023

    Click here for details on all the latest Ontario PNP draws.

    Express Entry Draw Summary

    In August 2023, Express Entry only announced four new rounds of invitations, sending out 8,600 PR invitations as compared to 9,600 in the month of July 2023.

    However, this month was better for profiles created in all the different programs of the Express Entry system, with the no program specified draw sending the most, with 6,300 invitations to apply and the CRS cutoff ranging from 496 to 517.

    We also witnessed the first targeted Express Entry draw for 10 Trade occupations, announcing the lowest CRS cutoff score of 388.

    There was a small Francophile draw, inviting 800 profiles with a CRS cutoff score of 435.

    We hope to see transportation and Agri-targeted Express Entry draws in the coming months, as well as repetition of STEM and healthcare-targeted rounds of invitations.

    Click here for more details on the latest Express Entry draws and the next draw prediction.

    Manitoba PNP Draws Summary

    Manitoba continues to issue the third-highest number of invitations for permanent residency in the month of August 2023, after OINP and Express Entry.

    On the last day of August, Manitoba PNP announced the first of its kind region-specific draw for Skilled Workers in Manitoba intending to reside outside the Winnipeg Area.

    The cutoff score was the lowest at 600 in this August 31st MPNP draw.

    Below is the summary of Manitoba PNP Draws announced in August 2023:

    DateInvitationsCutoff
    Score
    Category
    August 31, 2023288600Skilled Workers in Manitoba (outside Winnipeg Area)
    August 25, 202322N/AA special immigration measure for Ukrainians
    August 24, 2023623612-724Skilled Workers in Manitoba (SWM), International Education Stream (IES), Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO)
    August 10, 2023615605-708Skilled Workers in Manitoba (SWM), International Education Stream (IES), Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO)
    Total1,548
    Manitoba PNP draws August 2023

    Saskatchewan PNP Summary

    The Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program or Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) also introduced a first of its kind, never done before in the history of Canadian immigration, that is, country-targeted PNP draws.

    SINP sent out 1,384 invitations to apply for permanent residency under the Occupation In-Demand and Express Entry streams, targeting applicants from eight countries with the lowest cutoff score ever of 60.

    60 is the minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score required to even qualify to create a profile with SINP.

    These countries are India, Ireland, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Lithuania, and Ukraine.

    CategoryTotal Candidates Invited to ApplyOther Considerations
    Occupations In-Demand12Candidates residing in Ireland with experience in select 28 NOC Codes
    Express Entry23Candidates residing in Ireland with experience in select 28 NOC Codes
    Occupations In-Demand78Candidates residing in Poland, Czechia, Germany, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Ukraine with experience in select 70 NOC codes
    Express Entry98Candidates residing in Poland, Czechia, Germany, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Ukraine with experience in select 70 NOC codes
    Occupations In-Demand207Candidates residing in India with experience in select 26 NOC codes
    Express Entry224Candidates residing in India with experience in select 26 NOC Codes
    SINP draws August 2023

    Click here for full details on the latest Saskatchewan PNP Draws.

    British Columbia PNP Draws Summary

    The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued 861 new invitations for permanent residency as compared to 731 in July 2023 under various categories.

    Each week, the province of British Columbia continues to alternate between general and targeted PNP rounds of invitations.

    Early Childhood Educators or individuals having experience in Healthcare occupations continue to receive invitations at the lowest cutoff scores.

    Below is the summary of BC PNP draws in August 2023:

    DateInvitationsStreamMinimum ScoreDescription
    Aug 29>150Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)60-88Targeted draw for Early Childhood Educators, healthcare occupations35 Tech occupations, and NOCs 31103, 32104
    Aug 22169Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)88-109General Draw
    Aug 22>56Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)60Targeted draw for Early Childhood Educators, healthcare occupations, and NOCs 31103, 32104,
    Aug 15>153Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)60-88Targeted draw for Early Childhood Educators, healthcare occupations35 Tech occupations, and NOCs 31103, 32104
    Aug 9195Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)88-110General Draw
    Aug 956Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)60-88Targeted draw for Early Childhood Educators, healthcare occupations,
    Aug 1>194Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option)60-88Targeted draw for Early Childhood Educators, healthcare occupations, 35 Tech occupations, NOC 31103, 32104
    BC PNP draws August 2023

    Click here for more details on the latest BC PNP Draws.

    Quebec Arrima Draws Summary

    Quebec again held only one Arrima draw on August 10th, 2023, inviting 1,384 profiles for permanent residency.

    This round of invitations targeted Arrima profiles with oral French proficiency of level 7 or higher and a score of 591 or higher according to the Quebec score calculator.

    Compared to the previous Quebec Arrima draw on July 20, 2023, this threshold score decreased by only 5 points.

    Quebec has issued 8,489 invitations to apply in nine rounds of the Arrima draws this year.

    Click here for more details on the latest Quebec Arrima draws.

    Alberta Express Entry Draws Summary

    The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) held seven Express Entry draws in August 2023, compared to only three in July 2023.

    A total of 815 Express Entry profiles have been invited to claim provincial nominations and grab the opportunity to boost their CRS score by 600 points.

    Alberta had already issued 7,121 nomination certificates across all categories as of August 29, 2023.

    Below is a summary of all the AAIP Express Entry draws in August 2023:

    Date of drawInvitationsDraw parametersCRS Score cutoff
    August 24, 2023168Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500302
    August 22, 202389Priority sector – Construction occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500303
    August 16, 2023300Priority sector – Tourism and hospitality occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500408
    August 15, 202314Dedicated Healthcare Pathway with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above326
    August 3, 2023201Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500315
    August 1, 202332Priority sector – Agriculture occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500322
    August 1, 202311Dedicated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above317
    AAIP Express Entry draws August 2023

    Click here for the most recent information about Alberta Express Entry draws.

    Prince Edward Island PNP Draws Summary

    Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island, invited a total of 222 candidates in three provincial nominee program draws, as listed below:

    DateLabour and Express InvitationsDescription
    August 3, 202358Targeted at individuals working in the Healthcare, Manufacturing, Food Processing, Construction, Hotel/Accommodation, and Agriculture sectors.
    August 17, 2023138Only Critical Worker Stream targeting individuals working for a PEI Employer with a minimum EOI score of 50
    August 31, 202322Targeted at individuals working in the Healthcare, Manufacturing, Food Processing, and construction sectors.
    PEI PNP Draws August 2023

    To date, in 2023, the PEI PNP has issued a total of 1,861 invitations to apply for permanent residency across all categories.


    Canada Issues 24,720 New PR Invitations In August 2023

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  • Canada Immigration Focus On Skilled Trade Occupations

    As the landscape of immigration continues to evolve, the importance of skilled trade occupations in Canada, particularly in the province of Ontario, is gaining significant attention.

    With a growing emphasis on addressing labour shortages, fostering economic growth, and promoting diversity, skilled trades professionals are poised to become a cornerstone of Canadian immigration policy.

    Temporary foreign workers with experience in skilled trades are set to reap the benefits of this evolving focus, contributing to their own professional growth and the nation’s prosperity.

    The shift towards Skilled Trades traditionally, Canada’s immigration policies have now leaned heavily towards attracting highly skilled professionals in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.

    The launch of STEM category-based draws indicates the importance of these sectors. However, recent trends indicate a noticeable shift towards recognizing the value of skilled trades.

    The Canadian government and provinces like Ontario have recognized the urgent need to fill gaps in the workforce related to industries such as construction, manufacturing, automotive, and more.

    The skilled trades sector has long been overlooked, resulting in an imbalance between the demand for skilled tradespeople and the available workforce.

    To bridge this gap, Canada is reevaluating its immigration criteria to ensure that those with expertise in various trades can contribute to the country’s growth and development.

    Ontario’s Focus on Skilled Trades

    Ontario welcomes most of the new permanent residents every year, being the largest province in Canada.

    The province is taking a proactive stance by embracing skilled trades as a priority in its immigration strategy.

    With its vibrant cities, expanding infrastructure projects, and flourishing industries, Ontario has become an attractive destination for both immigrants and temporary foreign workers.

    The province’s focus on skilled trades is evident through various initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining tradespeople.

    Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): This provincial program is tailored to nominate individuals with the necessary skills and experience in designated trades.

    OINP Skilled Trade Full List of Invited Occupations in 2023

    Through OINP’s Skilled Trades Stream, qualified workers can be nominated for permanent residency, streamlining their path to becoming Canadian residents.

    Red Seal Program: The Red Seal endorsement is a nationally recognized certification that signifies a worker’s proficiency in a particular trade.

    Ontario’s recognition and support for the Red Seal Program further highlight the province’s commitment to skilled trades.

    Investment in Infrastructure: Ontario’s continuous investment in infrastructure projects, including transportation, housing, and energy, has led to a surge in demand for skilled tradespeople.

    This demand presents a golden opportunity for foreign workers with relevant experience.

    Benefits for Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada

    Temporary foreign workers with experience in skilled trades stand to benefit significantly from this evolving focus on their professions. Here’s how:

    Pathway to Permanent Residency: Ontario’s emphasis on skilled trades in immigration policies means that temporary foreign workers can transition more smoothly from temporary to permanent status.

    The experience gained during their time in the province enhances their eligibility for provincial nomination programs.

    In-Demand Skills: Skilled trades are essential across various industries, ensuring that workers with relevant expertise remain in demand.

    This provides a level of job security and stability that can be particularly attractive for immigrants seeking long-term settlement.

    Contribution to the Economy: Immigrants and temporary foreign workers in skilled trades contribute significantly to Canada’s economy by addressing labour shortages and driving local businesses’ growth.

    This, in turn, enhances the overall economic landscape of the province and the nation.

    Community Integration: Temporary foreign workers who enter Ontario through the skilled trades route often have opportunities to engage with local communities, collaborate with Canadian colleagues, and form meaningful connections, thereby enriching their overall immigrant experience.

    Conclusion

    As Canada recalibrates its immigration policies to prioritize skilled trades, Ontario emerges as a leading advocate for attracting and retaining skilled trade professionals.

    Temporary foreign workers with experience in various trades are well-positioned to benefit from these evolving strategies.

    Their contributions not only fill essential workforce gaps but also contribute to the country’s economic prosperity and cultural diversity.

    In the grand tapestry of Canadian immigration, skilled trades are becoming a vibrant thread, weaving together the stories of individuals seeking opportunity and a nation that embraces their skills.

    Jaspreet Kaur, RCIC - Canada immigration news

    Jaspreet Kaur, RCIC

    Jaspreet Kaur, the Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in Mississauga, brings her expertise in immigration law and pens down her inferences about the ever-changing IRCC policies.

    6295 Shawson Drive, Unit 2B, Mississauga, L5T 1H4

    Contact: email at info@connectinternational.ca OR call at 905-971-4441


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