Express Entry is Canada’s primary system for managing applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It is a competitive immigration process that selects candidates based on their potential to contribute to the Canadian economy. Understanding the frequency and process of Express Entry draws is crucial for prospective immigrants. This article delves into how often Express Entry draws occur, the factors influencing their frequency, and what applicants can expect.
Understanding Express Entry
Before diving into the frequency of draws, it is essential to understand what Express Entry is and how it operates. Launched in January 2015, the Express Entry system is used to manage applications for three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Additionally, some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) use the Express Entry system to select candidates for provincial nomination.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
Candidates eligible for one of the Express Entry programs must create an online profile and are then ranked against each other using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS assigns points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and other criteria. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws from the pool.
How Often Do Express Entry Draws Occur?
1. Regular Draws
Express Entry draws typically occur every two weeks, although this schedule can vary. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts these draws to invite the highest-ranking candidates from the Express Entry pool to apply for permanent residence. Historically, the IRCC has aimed to conduct draws on a bi-weekly basis, which generally means that two draws are held each month.
However, this frequency can fluctuate based on various factors, including:
Immigration Targets: The number of invitations issued in each draw is aligned with Canada’s annual immigration targets. If the target is high, the frequency and size of draws may increase to meet the quotas.
Program-Specific Draws: Occasionally, the IRCC conducts program-specific draws targeting candidates from particular programs like the Federal Skilled Trades Program or Provincial Nominee Programs. These draws might influence the regular draw schedule.
Policy Changes and Priorities: Changes in immigration policies or shifting government priorities can also impact the frequency of draws. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were periods when draws were paused or adjusted to focus on candidates already in Canada.
2. Recent Trends
In recent years, the IRCC has maintained a relatively consistent schedule of bi-weekly draws, although the exact dates and sizes of draws can vary. For instance, in 2021 and 2022, the IRCC conducted around 24 to 30 draws per year. This regularity helps candidates anticipate when draws might occur and plan their application strategies accordingly.
3. Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the Express Entry draw schedule. In 2020 and 2021, the IRCC implemented several adjustments, including:
Pause in Draws: There were periods when no draws were conducted, particularly during the early months of the pandemic.
Program-Specific Draws: The IRCC focused more on candidates already in Canada by conducting draws targeting the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Programs.
These changes were temporary and aimed at addressing the immediate challenges posed by the pandemic. By 2022, the IRCC began returning to its regular draw schedule.
Factors Influencing Draw Frequency
Several factors influence how often Express Entry draws occur. Understanding these factors can help candidates anticipate potential changes in the draw schedule.
1. Immigration Levels Plan
The Government of Canada sets annual immigration targets through the Immigration Levels Plan. This plan outlines the number of immigrants Canada aims to welcome each year across various immigration categories, including economic, family, and refugee classes. The targets for the economic category, which includes Express Entry, directly influence the frequency and size of draws.
2. Candidate Pool Composition
The composition of the Express Entry pool also affects draw frequency. If the pool contains a large number of high-scoring candidates, the IRCC might conduct more frequent draws or increase the number of invitations issued per draw to ensure a steady influx of skilled workers. Conversely, if the pool is less competitive, the IRCC might adjust the draw frequency and size accordingly.
3. Processing Capacity
The IRCC’s capacity to process applications is another critical factor. The department must balance the number of invitations issued with its ability to process applications efficiently. If there are backlogs or resource constraints, the IRCC might temporarily reduce the frequency or size of draws to manage the workload.
4. Policy Changes
Changes in immigration policies or priorities can lead to adjustments in the draw schedule. For example, the introduction of new immigration programs or changes in eligibility criteria can impact the frequency of draws. Additionally, government responses to global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can lead to temporary changes in the draw process.
5. Economic Conditions
Canada’s economic conditions and labor market needs play a role in determining draw frequency. During periods of economic growth, there may be a higher demand for skilled workers, prompting more frequent draws. Conversely, during economic downturns, the IRCC might adjust its draw schedule to reflect changing labor market conditions.
What to Expect in an Express Entry Draw
1. Invitation to Apply (ITA)
When a draw occurs, the IRCC issues Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to the highest-ranking candidates in the Express Entry pool. An ITA allows candidates to submit a complete application for permanent residence. The number of ITAs issued in each draw varies and is determined based on the factors mentioned earlier.
2. CRS Score Cutoff
Each draw has a CRS score cutoff, which represents the minimum score required to receive an ITA. The cutoff score fluctuates with each draw, depending on the CRS scores of candidates in the pool and the number of ITAs issued. Candidates with scores above the cutoff receive ITAs, while those below the cutoff must wait for future draws.
3. Tie-Breaking Rule
In cases where multiple candidates have the same CRS score at the cutoff, the IRCC applies a tie-breaking rule. This rule prioritizes candidates based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles. Candidates who submitted their profiles earlier are given precedence.
4. Post-ITA Process
Once candidates receive an ITA, they have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. This application includes supporting documents, such as police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds, and educational credentials. The IRCC aims to process complete applications within six months, although processing times can vary.
SEE ALSO: EXPRESS ENTRY SYSTEM: ELIGIBILITY, BENEFITS & APPLICATION PROCESS
Strategies for Candidates
1. Maximizing CRS Score
Given the competitive nature of Express Entry, candidates should focus on maximizing their CRS scores to improve their chances of receiving an ITA. Strategies to boost CRS scores include:
Improving Language Proficiency: Higher scores in language tests like IELTS or CELPIP can significantly increase CRS points.
Gaining Additional Work Experience: More years of skilled work experience can boost CRS scores.
Obtaining a Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add valuable CRS points.
Securing a Provincial Nomination: Provincial nominations add 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
2. Staying Informed
Candidates should stay informed about changes in immigration policies, draw schedules, and CRS score trends. Monitoring the IRCC website and reliable immigration news sources can help candidates anticipate when draws might occur and what CRS scores are likely to be competitive.
3. Considering Alternative Programs
While Express Entry is a popular pathway, candidates should also explore other immigration programs that might be suitable for their profiles. Provincial Nominee Programs, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, and other regional programs offer additional opportunities for permanent residence.
Conclusion
Express Entry draws are a critical component of Canada’s immigration system, offering skilled workers a pathway to permanent residence. While draws typically occur every two weeks, various factors influence their frequency, including immigration targets, pool composition, processing capacity, policy changes, and economic conditions. By understanding these factors and staying informed, candidates can better navigate the Express Entry system and improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply. As Canada continues to prioritize skilled immigration, Express Entry remains a dynamic and competitive process, requiring candidates to be proactive and strategic in their approach.