Understanding Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for managing immigration applications for economic-class immigrants. It covers three primary federal immigration streams:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Since June 2023, IRCC has diversified its draws into three distinct categories:

1. General draws

2. Program-specific draws

3. Category-based draws

Here’s a breakdown of how each works.

General and Program-Specific Draws

These draws focus on applicants based on their CRS scores, which are calculated using various human capital factors such as:

• Age

• Language skills

• Education

• Work experience

To receive an ITA through general or program-specific draws, applicants must:

1. Confirm they meet eligibility for at least one Express Entry-managed program.

2. Submit a profile to the IRCC and obtain a CRS score.

3. Wait for a draw where the CRS cut-off aligns with or falls below their score.

Only candidates whose CRS scores exceed the draw’s threshold will receive an invitation to submit a full Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR).

Category-Based Draws

Introduced in mid-2023, category-based draws are designed to address Canada’s workforce needs by targeting specific occupations or competencies. IRCC selects candidates who can help fill labor shortages in key industries or meet demographic goals.

As of 2024, six focus areas have been confirmed:

• Work experience in healthcare

• Experience in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

• Skilled trades

• Background in transport

• Experience in agriculture and agri-food

• Strong proficiency in French

These targeted draws aim to streamline immigration for candidates who are likely to contribute to Canada’s evolving economic and demographic priorities.