Overview of Changes in 2024
The Express Entry system in 2024 has undergone significant changes, impacting how invitations to apply (ITAs) are issued to immigration candidates. From updates in proof of funds requirements to the introduction of category-based selections, these adjustments have reshaped the landscape of Canadian immigration.
ITAs Issued in the First Six Months of 2023
In the first half of 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted 13 Express Entry draws, issuing a total of 49,948 ITAs. The draw types included:
- General Draws (encompassing the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP))
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws
- FSWP-specific Draws
ITAs Issued in the First Six Months of 2024
The first six months of 2024 saw 19 Express Entry draws, with 41,855 ITAs issued. The draw types this year expanded to include:
- General Draws
- French Language Proficiency Draws
- Healthcare Occupations Draws
- Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations Draws
- Transport Occupations Draws
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations Draws
- PNP Draws
- CEC-specific Draws
These additional draw types stem from the new category-based selection policy, which targets candidates based on specific criteria rather than solely relying on Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores.
Comparing ITAs and Draws Between 2023 and 2024
Key Differences
- Number of Draws:
- 2023: 13 draws
- 2024: 19 draws
- Total ITAs Issued:
- 2023: 49,948 ITAs
- 2024: 41,855 ITAs
Despite a higher number of draws in 2024, fewer ITAs were issued than in 2023. This discrepancy can be attributed to the new category-based selection draws impacting the composition and size of the Express Entry pool.
General Draws Analysis
2023 General Draws:
- Frequency: 8 draws
- Average Draw Size: 5,475 ITAs
- Average CRS Cut-off Score: 489
2024 General Draws:
- Frequency: 9 draws
- Average Draw Size: 1,605 ITAs
- Average CRS Cut-off Score: 536
The 2024 general draws have seen a significant increase in CRS cut-off scores and a decrease in average draw sizes compared to 2023.
Implications for the Remainder of 2024
Given the issuance of 7,000 fewer ITAs in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, IRCC may need to increase the frequency or size of draws in the latter half of the year to meet their immigration targets. The 2024 immigration levels plan allocates 110,770 landings for Express Entry, up from 82,800 in 2023.
This target suggests a need for more ITAs to be issued, particularly considering the processing and travel times involved. With a published service standard of six months for processing Express Entry applications, ITAs issued in the latter half of 2024 will likely contribute to the 2025 landing targets as well.
Future Outlook
The dynamics observed in the first half of 2024 indicate potential adjustments in the Express Entry system moving forward. We may see more frequent or larger draws to compensate for the fewer ITAs issued earlier in the year. However, the exact strategy IRCC will employ remains to be seen. Get a Free Express Entry Assessment Today!
Conclusion
The first six months of 2024 have showcased significant changes in the Express Entry system, with new draw types and higher CRS cut-off scores. As IRCC aims to meet higher immigration targets, the latter half of 2024 could witness more aggressive issuance of ITAs. Stay tuned for updates as the year progresses, and consider a free Express Entry assessment to understand your eligibility and opportunities better. To know more you can contact us
FAQs
1. What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s primary system for managing applications for permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and certain Provincial Nominee Programs.
2. What changes have been made to the Express Entry system in 2024?
Key changes include updated proof of funds requirements, higher CRS scores, a focus on domestic draws, and new category-based selection draws.
3. How many ITAs were issued in the first half of 2023?
In the first six months of 2023, 49,948 ITAs were issued.
4. How many ITAs were issued in the first half of 2024?
In the first six months of 2024, 41,855 ITAs were issued.
5. What is the CRS score, and why is it important?
The CRS score is a points-based system used to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. It determines who gets an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
6. Will there be more ITAs issued in the latter half of 2024?
Based on the 2024 immigration levels plan, it’s likely that more ITAs will be issued to meet the higher target of 110,770 permanent residents.
7. What are the new category-based selection draws?
These are new types of draws focusing on candidates with specific skills in healthcare, STEM, agriculture, and transport, and those with French language proficiency.
By understanding these changes and trends, prospective immigrants can better prepare their Express Entry profiles to meet the evolving criteria. Stay informed about the latest updates to maximize your chances of receiving an ITA.
