published on 25 November 2024 @ 4:13 pm · COMMENT
Key Highlights from November 2024 Express Entry Draws
In November 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted six Express Entry draws, focusing on category-specific priorities. These draws align with the objectives outlined in the new Immigration Levels Plan announced by IRCC last month, emphasizing the selection of skilled and educated individuals with strong potential for integration into Canadian society. Below is a breakdown of these rounds of invitations and their significance for prospective applicants.
November 12 and November 18, 2024: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws
IRCC issued a total of 907 invitations through two PNP-specific draws. The first, held on November 12, invited 733 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 812. The second, on November 18, invited 174 candidates with a slightly higher CRS score of 816.
To qualify for selection under this category, candidates must have received a nomination certificate from a Canadian province or territory. These elevated scores reflect the 600-point boost awarded for securing a provincial nomination certificate. The PNP program continues to serve as a key mechanism for addressing regional labor shortages and enabling provinces to select candidates tailored to their economic priorities.
November 13 and November 19, 2024: Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draws
Two CEC-specific draws issued a total of 800 invitations. On November 13, 400 candidates were invited with a minimum CRS score of 547, followed by another 400 invitations on November 19 with a slightly lower minimum CRS score of 539. These increased minimum scores reflect a more competitive selection process due to fewer invitations issued.
These draws underscore Canada’s emphasis on retaining skilled workers with Canadian work experience. By targeting skilled workers already integrated into the Canadian labour-market and society, these draws are instrumental in achieving the long-term economic and social integration goals outlined in the IRCC’s Immigration Levels Plan.
November 15, 2024: French Language Proficiency
This category-based draw invited 800 candidates demonstrating strong French language skills, with a minimum CRS score of 478. Eligible candidates were required to achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 or higher in French.
This draw supports Canada’s commitment to strengthening Francophone communities and aligns with broader objectives to promote bilingualism and strengthen Francophone presence outside of Quebec.
November 20, 2024: Health-Care Occupations
In a healthcare-targeted draw, IRCC issued 3,000 invitations to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 463. This marked the first healthcare-specific round since July 2024 and reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to address critical shortages in the healthcare sector.
By prioritizing applicants with qualifications and experience in healthcare professions, IRCC continues to focus on attracting and retaining talent essential to supporting the country’s healthcare system and growing population.
Summary
The November 2024 Express Entry draws demonstrate IRCC’s strategic approach to addressing Canada’s economic and demographic needs. By targeting provincial nominations, Canadian work experience, French proficiency, and health-care occupations, these rounds of invitations prioritize candidates with the skills and experience to integrate successfully into Canadian society and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Looking ahead to 2025, IRCC has not announced any changes to the category-based selection system. It is anticipated that French-speaking candidates, along with applicants in healthcare, STEM, agriculture, trades, and transport sectors, will remain key targets.
filed under: IMMIGRATIONPERMANENT RESIDENCE