Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have recently conducted the second Express Entry draw of the week, issuing invitations to apply (ITAs). In this draw, 3,500 candidates were invited under a category-based selection specifically targeting healthcare occupations. To be eligible, candidates needed to achieve a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 422.
This draw follows a general one held on February 13, where 1,490 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 535 received ITAs. Additionally, in 2024, there was another category-based selection draw on February 1, which saw the largest draw of the year so far, inviting 7,000 candidates with strong French language proficiency.
Overview of Express Entry Draw Results in 2024
| Date | Category | Number of ITAs | CRS Score |
| February 14 | Healthcare Occupations | 3500 | 422 |
| February 13 | General | 1490 | 535 |
| February 1 | French Language Proficiency | 7000 | 365 |
| January 31 | General | 730 | 541 |
| January 23 | General | 1,040 | 543 |
| January 10 | General | 1510 | 546 |
Understanding Category-Based Selection
Introduced in May 2023, category-based selection rounds aim to address specific human capital attributes. These categories, developed after consultations with stakeholders, target critical gaps in Canada’s labor force. They include proficiency in French and occupation-based categories such as healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, and agriculture.
To be considered for category-based selection, candidates must be eligible for an Express Entry program and have an application in the pool through one of the three programs. This approach helps identify candidates best suited to fill vacant positions in Canada’s workforce.
Explaining Express Entry
Express Entry is a system managing three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. It evaluates candidates based on factors like language ability, work experience, education, and age, assigning them a CRS score.
Candidates with the highest CRS scores are ranked in the Express Entry pool, with those receiving ITAs having 60 days to submit their final application for permanent resident status in Canada. This system ensures a streamlined and efficient process for skilled workers seeking immigration to Canada.
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