In a newly launched all-program Express Entry 253 draw on July 4, Canada distributed 700 Invitations to Apply. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score for the July 4 draw is 511, which means that the score is 25 points higher than the level for the previous all-program draw.
It was the 11th overall program draw for Canada in 2023. Additionally, it has held four PNP draws and one exclusive draw targeting applicants for federal skilled worker positions. Canada already issued 60,949 ITAs in 2023, after inviting a total of 45,115 candidates in 2022.
Surprise All-Program Draw
As a part of the Express Entry draw 253, about 700 Invitations to Apply (ITA) were sent out to applicants having a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 511. The IRCC had previously announced another healthcare-focused draw and STEM-focused draw, so the new Express Entry draw announced on July 4 was a surprise.
No specific program was designated for the Express Entry draw on July 4. Thus, the invitations were sent to candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
By removing the program-specific criteria for this particular draw, the Canadian government aims to attract skilled individuals from different backgrounds and professions. It presents a unique opportunity for those who may not have qualified under the previous draws but possess valuable skills and experience that can contribute to Canada’s economy and society.
What is Express Entry?
The Express Entry system serves as a major pathway for economic immigration to Canada. It ranks candidates based on various factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, among others. The candidates whose scores are equal or greater to the minimum comprehensive ranking System score, receive invitations to apply for permanent residence, leading them one step closer to making Canada their home.
How Do I Apply for Express Entry and What Is It?
The Canadian government uses a mechanism called Express Entry to handle applications for permanent residence. The CRS, a point-based system, is used by Express Entry to rate candidate profiles. Three key programs are managed by the system:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
Candidates with no ties to Canada who have overseas work experience are eligible to apply for permanent residency under the FSW program.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
FST ranks interested individuals using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), encouraging those who are skilled in trades such as manufacturing and processing to apply for Canadian permanent residency.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Candidates with recent Canadian job experience who want to immigrate permanently to Canada should apply for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program. A CEC application can be processed in as little as three to four months, making it one of the quickest paths to permanent residence in Canada.
It takes two steps to submit an Express Entry application. The initial step is to submit your profile along with the necessary paperwork. Results of language tests, academic qualifications, and passports or other travel papers are frequently needed documents.
You can submit your whole application for the IRCC to evaluate after submitting a profile and being invited to apply for Canadian permanent residency. Added identification papers, letters of recommendation, police clearance records, and the findings of a medical exam should all be included in your comprehensive application.
