In 2023, IRCC conducted 25 non-category-based draws, with 17 having CRS cut-off scores below 518. Among these, six draws had cut-offs between 500 and 517, and 11 draws had cut-offs below 496.
Recent draws reflect a growing tension among immigration candidates due to the consistently high CRS cut-off scores in Express Entry draws. Since the beginning of 2024, there has not been a single general draw with a CRS score below 524.
However, with recent developments within Canada's Express Entry system, candidates eligible for category-based selection draws are now more likely to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs), even if their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are below 500. This change projects a targeted approach towards specific categories or occupations, presenting new opportunities for candidates aiming to secure permanent residence.
In 2024, IRCC conducted eight category-based Express Entry draws, each with significantly lower CRS cut-off scores than the general and program-specific draws. Here's a breakdown of the minimum CRS scores for these category-based draws:
Draw Date 2024 | Category | Minimum CRS |
Feb-01 | French language proficiency draw | 365 |
Feb-14 | Healthcare draw | 422 |
Feb-16 | Agriculture and Agri-Food draw | 437 |
Feb-29 | French language proficiency draw | 336 |
Mar-13 | Transport draw | 430 |
Mar-26 | French language proficiency draw | 338 |
Apr-11 | Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics -(STEM) draw | 491 |
Apr-24 | French-language proficiency draw | 410 |
To qualify for an ITA in a category-based Express Entry draw, candidates must meet specific criteria tailored to their category. This involves fulfilling all requirements specified for that round of invitations and additional criteria specific to their category.
For detailed eligibility information based on your National Occupational Classification (NOC) code and other relevant factors, visit the official website of IRCC.
The French language proficiency category presents a valuable opportunity for Express Entry candidates in the coming years. To qualify, candidates must attain a minimum score of 7 for all four language abilities (speaking, reading, writing, and listening) on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).
IRCC has prioritized this category, with French proficiency accounting for the majority (30%) of ITAs issued through category-based draws in 2024. This focus underscores the significance of bilingual skills in enhancing one's chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian PR.
In 2024, IRCC is focusing on immigration candidates with work experience in specific industries:
Candidates must have a minimum of six months of eligible full-time, continuous (or equivalent part-time) work experience within the last three years, either in Canada or abroad.
Each occupational category has its list of eligible National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes, and qualifying work experience must be within a single occupation under one of these NOCs within the designated category. This initiates pathways for qualifying candidates based on their professional background and experience.
Candidates who are eligible and have CRS scores below 500 are most likely to benefit from category-based selection draws. This group includes immigration candidates whose CRS scores are near or below 500 and those who do not meet the minimum CRS score in general draws, which was 524 on March 25, 2024.
For these individuals, category-based selection provides an alternative pathway to receive an ITA for Canadian PR when increasing their CRS score through other means is challenging or not feasible.
Effective strategies are available for candidates who want to boost their CRS score in general draws without switching occupations. Some of them include the following:
Education directly influences the CRS scores for economic immigration candidates. Depending on the candidate's educational credentials—whether inside or outside of Canada—education can contribute up to 250 CRS points.
Candidates can increase their CRS score by pursuing further education or obtaining Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) for their current qualifications. It is important to note that IRCC mandates an ECA for the highest completed educational credential for candidates educated outside of Canada.
Through this assessment, they verify that their foreign education is equivalent to a completed Canadian credential, thus allowing the candidate to gain additional points and improve their likelihood of receiving an ITA for Canadian PR.
Another factor that directly impacts CRS scores is the total work experience you have gained either in Canada or abroad. Especially if your job duties match the "skilled" National Occupational Classification (NOC) level recognized by IRCC, potentially earning you additional points.
Similarly, the duration of your work experience plays a vital role. Based on the length of full-time or equivalent part-time employment boosts your scores. That means extended periods of consistent work experience can result in higher CRS scores. Furthermore, accumulating more work experience in a skilled occupation can further enhance your CRS score, improving your prospects for immigration.
You can earn up to 310 points if you are proficient in English and have an excellent academic background. Candidates who exceed the minimum language requirements in speaking, reading, writing, and listening for any of the three Express Entry programs can gain more CRS points.
For instance, while the Federal Skilled Worker Program requires a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7, achieving up to CLB 10 can add bonus points for each level above CLB 7.
Another factor that increases your chances of immigration is proficiency in a second official Canadian language. In addition to the points for English proficiency, candidates can earn up to 6 additional points per language ability for proficiency in Canada's other official language, especially French.
Hence, learning a second official language increases CRS points and enhances employability for newcomers. All this helps them to adapt more quickly to their new environment and social integration.
Comparing CRS scores is essential when you apply for Express Entry along with a spouse or common-law partner. If the spouse or partner has a higher CRS score than the principal applicant, it might be better for them to change the principal applicant. If all other requirements are met, so this can improve the overall CRS score and increase the chances of receiving an ITA.
Alternatively, couples can also submit separate Express Entry profiles for each spouse or partner.
By following these strategies effectively, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA and achieving your dream of becoming a permanent resident of Canada.
ImmiLaw Global provides skilled Canadian immigration lawyers to support you throughout your journey. Our experienced team comprises proficient immigration lawyers with extensive expertise in Canadian laws and regulations. We assist with various immigration needs, including setting up Express Entry profiles, selecting PNP programs, and more.
Contact us to begin a brighter future in Canada.
The article offers general information and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Seek guidance from an experienced advisor for specific assistance. While we aim for accuracy, we cannot guarantee complete precision. Author opinions may evolve. ImmiLaw Global and its affiliates do not explicitly or implicitly endorse third-party advice, opinions, information, products, or services.
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