Know Options For Express Entry Profiles Awaiting the CEC Draw

Last Updated On 21 February 2023, 9:50 AM EST (Toronto Time)

Immigration Options For Express Entry profiles waiting For CEC-Only Draw. So far, there has been no program specified, PNP only, and FSW only Express Entry draws in 2023.

As cut-offs continue to stay high for Express Entry, several international students and work permit holders are hoping for Canadian Experience Class-only draws. 

Although, it remains uncertain whether there will be a CEC-only draw. Or there will be options for international students and work permit holders, as emphasized by Immigration Minister Sean Fraser in his recent report.

Recently, minister Fraser said he is looking for options to give more points to Canadian experience in the Express Entry, but actual details are not finalized yet.

Hopefully, we see a CEC dedicated draw soon, but cut off is expected to stay high in first CEC draws.

So, if you are someone hoping for CEC-only draws, this article will help you understand your options and plan. 

Targeted Express Entry Draws-Know New Categories Proposed By IRCC

Other options for international students and work permit holders 

If you are waiting for CRS score cut-offs to lower, you may want to consider some other options. It may be best to wait for the CRS score to reduce, but if you are at risk of becoming out of status, here are 3 options you can consider. 

1. Applying for PNP

Most often, PNP requires you to have a connection to the province. However, you could consider the following programs that do not require you to have a specific connection to the province, but you may need a job offer. New Immigration levels plan clearly states that provincial nominee programs have target of inviting 105,500 candidates in 2023.

Newfoundland and Labrador International Graduate

You could be qualified to apply for a provincial nomination under this program if you’ve completed a post-secondary program of at least two years’ duration anywhere in Canada. Still, you’re now employed in Newfoundland and Labrador. Graduates employed in Newfoundland and Labrador for at least a year on a post-graduate work permit are eligible for the program.

B.C International Graduate

This program can be possible if you have completed a post-secondary degree anywhere in Canada and presently hold a job offer from a company in British Columbia. To be eligible, you also need two years of full-time work experience in a similar role to the job offer. 

Ontario ONIP Job Offer-International Students stream

You may qualify for this PNP if you have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer and have completed a post-secondary program in Canada. Your Canadian education must have been for a study program that lasted at least two years or a one-year course with a prior necessary degree requirement. 

2. Getting an LMIA Work Permit 

If you have worked for a specific employer for a long time, you may ask them to support you with a LIMA.

Although the process may be complex, with a valid job offer, you can get more points under the Comprehensive Ranking System. 

There are currently more than 4,400 LMIA approved job postings in Canada. Click here to find LMIA approved jobs.

3. Returning to School

Lastly, you may consider returning to school if you are running out of all options and only need to extend your stay until CRS score cut-offs drop.

It is an expensive option, but it can definitely prevent you from leaving Canada. It may help you maintain your status and extend your stay in Canada. 

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