5500 candidates invited in second Express Entry draw of 2023

Canada held a second big Express Entry draw in a gap of just one week and invited 5500 candidates to apply for permanent residence in Canada. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of the invited candidates was 490. As it was an all-program draw, candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) received invitations.This is the second Express Entry draw of 2023 and the second consecutive draw where 5500 candidates are invited. However, the CRS cut-off score for the previous draw held on January 11 was 507. It means, in the latest draw, the cut-off score has dropped by about 17 points.

Two large draws in two consecutive weeks indicate that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has already begun its efforts to meet this year’s immigration target. So, within just two weeks into 2023, a total of 11000 immigration candidates have received Express Entry invitations.

Express Entry is the fastest one among the more than 100 skilled immigration pathways of Canada with a service standard of just six months.

Targeted Express Entry draws

It is predicted that Canada will begin conducting targeted Express Entry draws in 2023. These draws would select candidates based on their skills and work experience, rather than on their CRS score. The possible categories for targeted draws can be occupation, work experience, education and language abilities. The draws may target candidates with work experience in an occupation that is in demand in Canada. There is also a possibility that the IRCC would create special pathways for international graduates who have completed their studies from a Designated Learning Institution in a field that is in demand in Canada. Such opportunities may also be created for temporary residents.

Express Entry system of Canada

The Express Entry system of Canada manages applications for immigration under the three federal economic immigration programs, which are the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Provincial Nominee Program(PNP) candidates who are already in the Express Entry pool will also receive invitations in the draws. The candidates are assessed and ranked on the basis of the Comprehensive Ranking System or CRS and the Express Entry invitations are issued to those who have the highest CRS scores. The invited candidates can apply for permanent residence and if their application is approved, they will obtain the much coveted Canada PR visa.

Express Entry draws held so far in 2023

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