Are you looking to migrate to Canada? The Access to Information Request (AIR) and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have revealed data which displays the categories that will be the most targeted this year for persons applying for Canadian permanent residence.
The Access to Information Request shared that for Express Entry draws in 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada issued 78.5% of all Invitations to Apply to candidates in category based selection draws. It was also observed that the French proficiency category dominated and will continue to dominate in 2024 as candidates with French language proficiency will receive 30% of the Invitations to Apply issued by the government.
What is the Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s application management system for three immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and, the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Eligible candidates receive a score based on criteria such as their age, education, level of education, work experience, and language skills. The Canadian government holds draws inviting the highest scoring candidates to apply for permanent residence.
Why the French proficiency category leads
The French proficiency category has been targeted as particularly important because Canada employers have repeatedly reported facing challenges with finding qualified and skilled bilingual workers to fill vacant positions. This is especiallt needed as all Canadians have the right to access public services in either of the country’s 2 official languages. Respondents in support expressed the need for bilingualism in healthcare, tourism, hospitality, and education. They also highlighted how gaining French speaking employees in the labour market can help remove barriers for French-speaking minority communities.
How this can impact Comprehensive Ranking System scores
It is well known that the number of candidates in the Express Entry pool and their associated CRS scores will have an impact on the minimum CRS cut off scores for upcoming draws. In the 2023 Access to Information Request, the IRCC said it expected to see a drop of approximately 10% in the total average CRS scores following the introduction of category based selection rounds. This drop would likely help widen occupational diversity. However, this could also have a negative impact on newcomer’s economic outcomes, as higher CRS scores correlate to stronger economic outcomes.
When the draws will occur
Most details of the draw schedule have been redacted however, for the first 4 months of 2024, the IRCC has conducted one general draw and at least one category draw every two weeks. The IRCC further indicated that it will invite candidates based on admission targets outlined in the current Immigration Levels Plan. In 2024, the IRCC has a target of welcoming 110,770 new permanent residents in 2024 and 117,500 in 2025.
How Yanique Russell Law Can Assist
Effectively maneuvering the changes and criterias of the Express Entry system requires strategic foresight and a deep understanding of immigration laws. At Yanique Russell Law we provide legal advice on how to make the most out of your Express Entry profile, thus increasing your chances of becoming a permanent resident in Canada.
Conclusion
The Express Entry system is a vital pathway for skilled professionals to gain permanent residency in Canada. With these new changes occurring, it is important to understand the factors that influence your chances of reaching your goals. With the support of Yanique Russell Law, your dream of settling in Canada can become a reality.
Sources:
French language proficiency will lead category-based selection Express Entry draws in 2024 - CICNEWS
Express Entry: Immigrate to Canada Calculate Your CRS Score - Canadavisa.com
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