Express Entry draws are a central component of Canada’s immigration system. They determine which candidates will be invited to apply for permanent residence in the country. 

The process is managed through a points-based system known as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked according to their CRS scores. 

These scores are calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and more. The higher the CRS score, the better a candidate’s chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA).

When a draw is held, the highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence. These draws happen periodically throughout the year, and each one has specific criteria and instructions.

If you’re also considering other pathways like the Visitor Visa, there are options depending on your specific goals.

Key Components of an Express Entry Draw

Each Express Entry draw follows a specific procedure, with a few key steps and components:

1. Draw Type: Before each draw, immigration officials decide whether it will be a general draw, a program-specific draw, or a category-based draw. This decision influences which candidates are eligible for selection. For family members, you might want to look into the Super Visa, which allows longer stays.
2. Number of Invitations: Officials then determine how many candidates they want to invite. This number can vary from draw to draw, depending on Canada’s immigration needs and targets.
3. Ranking by CRS Score: Candidates in the pool are ranked based on their CRS scores. The highest-ranking candidates in the chosen category (whether general, program-specific, or category-based) will be selected. 

Considering the PR and Citizenship options may also be a good idea, as they offer long-term stability for those looking to settle in Canada. 

1. Invitation to Apply: Selected candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence, which gives them the opportunity to complete their immigration application. They must submit all required documents and forms within 60 days of receiving the ITA.

When Is the Next Express Entry Draw?

While Express Entry draws usually occur every two weeks, there is no fixed schedule. The timing of each draw depends on Canada’s immigration goals and the government’s discretion. Draws can sometimes be delayed due to administrative changes or shifts in immigration policy.

For those who have completed their Citizenship Application, this might not be a concern, but it’s critical for those awaiting PR status. 

For those looking to be invited, staying informed is crucial. You can check the IRCC website for updates, as the dates of upcoming draws are typically not announced in advance. Following past trends, however, can provide some insight into when the next draw might take place.

What Type of Express Entry Draws Are There?

There are three main types of Express Entry draws. If you’ve already secured your PR Renewal, you might already know how these draws work:

1. General Rounds of Invitations: In these draws, candidates from all three programs managed by Express Entry are considered. These programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates with the highest CRS scores across these programs are invited to apply for permanent residence.

The Rural and Northern Program, for example, could be a good fit for those interested in specific regions of Canada. 

1. Program-Specific Rounds of Invitations: Sometimes, the draw targets candidates from a specific program. For example, there may be a draw focused on candidates eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 

In such cases, only those with provincial nominations are considered, as these candidates are seen as having the skills and qualifications needed by specific provinces or territories.

1. Category-Based Rounds of Invitations: In category-based draws, candidates with certain skills or qualifications that align with Canada’s economic needs are invited. These categories are determined by the Minister of Immigration and could include fields like healthcare, technology, agriculture, or trades. 

For example, candidates with experience in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) may be invited in a category-based round aimed at filling gaps in these industries.

Note: Refugees are also eligible for other immigration pathways, even if they are not included in Express Entry draws. 

What Do I Need to Do to Have My Profile Selected in an Express Entry Draw?

To have your profile selected in an Express Entry draw, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect your CRS score. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Submit a Complete Profile: The first step is to ensure that your Express Entry profile is complete and accurate. You’ll need to provide details about your work experience, education, language skills, and other factors that influence your CRS score.

If you’re a Refugee Appeals candidate, the process might involve additional steps beyond just CRS scores. 

1. Meet Eligibility Criteria: To be considered, you must meet the eligibility requirements of one of the three programs managed by Express Entry. If you don’t qualify for any of these programs, you won’t be placed in the pool or considered for a draw.
2. Achieve a Competitive CRS Score: The CRS score is key to being selected. Candidates with higher scores are more likely to be invited in each draw. The score is determined by factors like age, education, work experience, language skills, and the presence of a provincial nomination. Regularly reviewing and updating your profile with new credentials can help improve your score.
3. Monitor the Rounds of Invitations: Each round has its own set of requirements. It’s important to keep an eye on the type of draw being held and how your profile fits the criteria for that round.

Monitoring developments with Immigration Appeals can help you stay informed if you’re dealing with complex immigration situations.

What Is the Lowest CRS Score Accepted for Express Entry Draws?

The lowest CRS score accepted varies from draw to draw. For instance, in a recent Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw held on September 9, 2024, the lowest-ranked candidate had a CRS score of 732. It’s essential to monitor each round of invitations to see if your score meets the current cutoff.

In general, the minimum score for general rounds tends to be lower than for program-specific rounds, particularly the PNP, as provincial nominations add 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score.

How Can I Improve My CRS Score?

Improving your CRS score is key to increasing your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence. Here are some ways to boost your score:

1. Enhance Language Skills: Taking language tests for English (IELTS or CELPIP) or French (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) can significantly improve your score. Higher results in speaking, listening, reading, and writing can add many points to your profile.
2. Gain More Work Experience: The more work experience you have, particularly in skilled occupations, the better your CRS score. Gaining additional years of experience can improve your ranking.
3. Upgrade Your Education: Completing additional education, such as earning a second degree or a certification, can increase your CRS score. Educational Credential Assessments (ECA) ensure that your foreign credentials are recognized in Canada.
4. Get a Provincial Nomination: Being nominated by a Canadian province or territory adds 600 points to your CRS score, almost guaranteeing you an invitation in a future draw.
5. Obtain a Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can also give you additional points, although the points awarded for job offers are typically lower than for provincial nominations.

How Many Profiles Are Selected in Each Express Entry Draw?

The number of profiles selected in each draw varies depending on Canada’s immigration needs. For example, on September 9, 2024, 911 invitations were issued in a PNP-specific draw. The number of invitations in general rounds tends to be larger since candidates from all programs are considered.

Each draw also has a tie-breaking rule, which is used when multiple candidates have the same CRS score. In such cases, the cut-off is determined by the date and time candidates submitted their profiles, with earlier submissions receiving priority.

What Do You Do If Your Profile Has Been Selected from an Express Entry Draw?

If your profile has been selected from an Express Entry draw, here’s what you need to do next:

1. Receive Your Invitation to Apply (ITA): Once selected, you’ll receive an ITA through your Express Entry account. This invitation allows you to apply for permanent residence.
2. Submit Your Application: You have 60 days from the date of your ITA to submit your complete application for permanent residence. This includes submitting all required documents, such as proof of work experience, language test results, and educational credentials.
3. Await a Decision: After submitting your application, the IRCC will review it and make a decision. If approved, you’ll receive instructions on how to complete the immigration process and move to Canada.

Why Is the Express Entry Draw Delayed?

There are several reasons why an Express Entry draw may be delayed:

1. Policy Changes: The government may delay draws due to changes in immigration policies or priorities.
2. System Updates: Technical updates to the Express Entry system can sometimes cause delays.
3. Immigration Targets: The number of invitations issued in each draw is linked to Canada’s immigration targets, which can fluctuate based on labor market needs or economic conditions.

Navigating the Express Entry system can be challenging, but SEP Immigration is here to help. Reach out to us today to boost your chances of securing an Invitation to Apply and start your journey toward permanent residence in Canada with confidence.