Coronavirus pandemic notwithstanding, the country still admits a large number of immigrants, and this will continue into the foreseeable future. In 2021, the Express Entry draws are expected to bring over 100,000 new immigrants to Canada. Already, 74,773 candidates have been invited by the IRCC, and they are expected to attain permanent residency status.
The largest number of candidates came from the draw held on 13th February. In this draw, the IRCC invited all CEC-eligible candidates, totaling 27,332 people. Of these candidates, 23,877 managed to fill their application forms before the 90-day deadline elapsed.
The Canadian Experience Class-only candidate and the Provincial Nominee Program-only candidates do not have the same CRS requirements. Normally, the PNP-only candidates are automatically awarded 600 points to boost their overall score. CEC-only candidates don’t compete for any other invitation programs. This means their cut-off points are lower. In their previous draw, their CRS requirement was only 397 points.
What Does Express Entry Mean?
Canada uses a point-based system to grand candidates permanent residency. The applications are considered for 3 High Skilled Programs, including the Federal Skilled Trades Program, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Canadian Experience Class program. Some Provincial Nominee Programs also use Express Entry when inviting candidates applying for provincial nominations.
Express Entry is a points-based expression of interest system. It manages the applications for the three Federal High Skilled programs, which include the: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program and Federal Skilled Worker Program. Some PNPs also invite candidates to apply for a provincial nomination and they do so through Express Entry.
If you qualify for the Express Entry program, your score will be based on the CRS, which awards points according to official language skills, age, education level, work experience among other factors.
The IRCC holds several invitations every year. Those who score highly are invited to apply for permanent residency. If you feel you can meet the requirements, you can try your luck.
After submitting your application, one of the IRCC immigration officers will decide. If the officer approves your application, you’ll be eligible to immigrate to Canada after completing the landing process.
