This marks a significant milestone for IRCC, representing the first time since December 2023 that three draws have been conducted within a single week. On February 16, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) hosted its third Express Entry draw of the week, featuring pivotal developments in Canada’s immigration landscape:
150 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued in a category-based draw targeting eligible candidates with valuable work experience in Agriculture/Agri-Food occupations. Achieving a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 437 was essential for qualification.
Earlier in the week, two more draws took place. The first was on February 14, focusing on healthcare professionals. A CRS score of 422 was required. Before that, on February 13, an all-program draw was held, but the cutoff was much higher at 535.
Canada’s immigration system continues to emphasize certain job sectors.
In 2023, IRCC prioritized applications from workers in healthcare, transportation, trades, STEM fields, and agriculture. Trades include roles like carpenter, plumber, and contractor—fields that are in high demand across the country. Those with strong French skills also have more chances to be selected, as Canada aims to welcome more Francophone immigrants outside of Quebec.
The Express Entry system keeps shifting to match labor market needs. Anyone considering applying should pay attention to these trends and check for updates regularly. Immigration rules change often, and staying informed can make a big difference.
