Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its second Express Entry draw of the week, inviting candidates in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) occupations to apply for permanent residency. A total of 4,500 invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued in this category-based selection draw, with candidates needing a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 491 to qualify.
This marks the first draw specifically targeting STEM occupations in 2024. The previous day’s draw, on April 10, invited 1,280 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 549, the highest of the year so far.
Express Entry draws typically consider candidates from all three Express Entry-managed programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). However, category-based selection draws prioritize candidates with specific skills or attributes deemed in-demand by IRCC.
Introduced in May 2023, category-based selection draws aim to better target Express Entry candidates with skills or attributes aligned with Canada’s economic needs. The categories include healthcare occupations, trades, transport, agriculture, strong French proficiency, and STEM professions.
Express Entry is a system managing applications for Canada’s prominent economic immigration programs. It evaluates candidates based on factors like work experience, language ability, age, and education, assigning a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Candidates with higher CRS scores have a greater chance of receiving an ITA for permanent residency.
With a service standard of six months for processing 80% of Express Entry applications, IRCC aims for swift immigration processes, benefiting both applicants and Canada’s labor market needs.