In a momentous development, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the results of the second Express Entry draw of the week on February 29th.

IRCC sent out 2,500 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a francophone draw targeting profiles with high fluency in French. CRS cutoff score: 336.

Previously, on February 28th, the general Express Entry draw sent out 1,470 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency with a CRS cutoff score of 534.

Summary of the Express Entry Draws this week

Description	February 29, 2024	February 28, 2024
Draw type	Targeted draw for profiles with high proficiency in French	General or all program draws
Invitations	2,400	1,470
CRS Cutoff	336	534
Tie-breaking rule	January 18, 2024, at 09:15:46 UTC	January 16, 2024, at 03:51:05 UTC

We may see targeted draws in the coming days. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates.

Key Express Entry Draw Expectations For 2024

CRS Score Distribution in the Pool

CRS score range	Number of candidates
601-1200	965
501-600	9,567
451-500	59,371
491-500	7,574
481-490	10,095
471-480	17,137
461-470	13,373
451-460	11,192
401-450	50,695
441-450	10,265
431-440	10,474
421-430	9,110
411-420	10,407
401-410	10,439
351-400	56,178
301-350	29,305
0-300	5,406
Total	211,487

CRS Score distribution in the pool

Previous Express Entry draws in February 2024

Description	February 16, 2024	February 14, 2024	February 13, 2024	February 1, 2024
Draw type	Targeted for Agriculture and agri-food occupations	Targeted for 35 healthcare occupations	General or all program draws	Targeted draw for profiles with high proficiency in French
Invitations	150	3,500	1,490	7,000
CRS Cutoff	437	422	535	365
Tie-breaking rule	January 29, 2024, at 03:32:58 UTC	January 30, 2024, at 02:39:54 UTC	February 11, 2024, at 15:26:56 UTC	September 8, 2023, at 09:47:27 UTC

Express Entry Draw: February 2024

Next Steps for Invited Candidates

Candidates who received an ITA in the most recent Express Entry draw must now submit a full application for permanent residency within a specific timeframe.

This involves producing supporting documentation, having medical examinations, and meeting all other IRCC standards.

The impact on immigration targets

The newest Express Entry draw is consistent with Canada’s overall immigration goals, which seek to attract qualified people who can contribute to the country’s economic growth and diversity.

By sending invites to candidates with high CRS scores, IRCC continues to prioritize individuals with the skills and qualifications required to succeed in the Canadian labour market.

Reactions from stakeholders

The release of the most recent Express Entry draws has provoked a variety of comments from stakeholders within the immigration community:

Candidates: Invited candidates have expressed their delight and thanks for the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Many people are eager to take the next steps in their immigration process and realize their dreams of starting a new life in the country.
Immigration consultants: Immigration consultants and specialists advise and help candidates who have received an ITA, supporting them with the application process and ensuring that all requirements are satisfied in a timely manner.
- However, immigration consultants have raised concerns about inviting individuals with low CRS scores into category-based draws.
Governmental Officials: Government officials emphasize the importance of Express Entry drawings in meeting Canada’s immigration targets. They emphasize the importance of skilled immigrants in promoting economic growth, creativity, and cultural variety throughout the country.
Community organizations: Community organizations provide resources and help to applicants who may require additional support during the application process. They are devoted to ensuring that immigrants have access to the information and services they require to thrive in Canada.

Conclusion

IRCC’s announcement of the next Express Entry draw represents a huge opportunity for qualified people from all over the world to pursue their ambition of moving to Canada.

As invited applicants prepare to file their applications for permanent residency, they embark on a path filled with new chances, experiences, and possibilities in one of the world’s most hospitable and diverse countries.

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) licensed by CICC (formerly known as ICCRC) with member number R708618. He brings extensive knowledge of immigration law and new changes to rapidly evolving IRCC.