Express Entry Draw Update 1800 ITAs Issued to Skilled Trade Workers for Canadian PR

What is Express Entry?

Canada Express Entry is an online immigration application system, designed to select skilled workers for permanent residency. It allows the Canadian government to quickly assess candidates based on factors like education, work experience, and language skills through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

Overview of the October 23, 2024, Express Entry Draw

This particular draw was notable for its focus on trade occupations, inviting 1,800 trade professionals to apply for permanent residency. Candidates were required to have at least six months of work experience in one of the ten eligible trade jobs. To qualify, a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 433 was needed.

Key Highlights:

• • Date: October 23, 2024
• • Invitations Issued: 1,800
• • Minimum CRS Score: 433
• • Category: Trade occupations

Who Was Eligible?

The draw specifically targeted candidates working in trade occupations. To qualify, applicants need at least six months of relevant work experience in one of the following ten eligible trades:

List of Eligible Trade Occupations:

1) Residential and Commercial Installers and Servicers (NOC 73200)
2) Elevator Constructors and Mechanics (NOC 72406)
3) Machine Fitters (NOC 72405)
4) Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Mechanics (NOC 72402)
5) Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics (NOC 72400)
6) Carpenters (NOC 72310)
7) Plumbers (NOC 72300)
8) Electricians (Except Industrial and Power Systems) (NOC 72200)
9) Welders and Related Machine Operators (NOC 72106)
10) Contractors and Supervisors, Other Construction Trades, Installers, Repairers, and Servicers (NOC 72014)

What is the CRS Score?

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. It assigns points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. In this draw, candidates needed a CRS score of 433 or higher to receive an ITA. The CRS score is crucial because it determines who gets invited to apply for permanent residency.

Breakdown of the October 23 Draw

Here’s a closer look at the specifics of the draw:

• • Invitations Issued: 1,800
• • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate: 433
• • Date and Time of Draw: October 23, 2024, at 14:48:28 UTC
• • Tie-Breaking Rule: March 12, 2024, at 14:30:36 UTC

The tie-breaking rule means that if more than one candidate had the lowest CRS score, only those who submitted their profiles before the tie-breaking date and time were invited.

Category-Based Express Entry Draws

Since 2023, Canada has introduced category-based Express Entry draws. These draws target candidates based on specific skills or work experience, rather than just the overall CRS score. The October 23 draw focused on trade professionals, but other categories include healthcare, STEM fields, and French language proficiency.

Target Categories for This Draw:

• • Trade Occupations
• • Six months of work experience in one of the eligible trades

Other Express Entry Draws in the Week of October 21-23, 2024

Canada held three Express Entry draws during this week:

In total, 2,848 invitations were sent out this week, providing ample opportunities for candidates in various categories.

Why is This Express Entry Draw Significant?

This draw is particularly significant for trade professionals. Canada is experiencing a labor shortage in the skilled trades, and this targeted draw aims to fill critical gaps in the workforce. It’s a golden opportunity for qualified individuals to secure permanent residency.

How to Improve Your CRS Score

If your CRS score is below the cutoff, there are ways to improve it:

1) Improve Your Language Score: Scoring higher on language tests (IELTS, CELPIP) can give you a big boost in points.
2) Get a Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add 50-200 points to your score.
3) Pursue Further Education: Higher education levels are rewarded with more CRS points.
4) Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Receiving a provincial nomination adds 600 points to your score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.

Steps After Receiving an ITA

If you received an Invitation to Apply (ITA), here’s what you need to do next:

1. Gather Required Documents

• • Passport or travel document
• • Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, etc.)
• • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
• • Letters confirming work experience
• • Proof of funds (if required)

2. Submit Your Application Within 60 Days

You have 60 days to submit your completed application for permanent residency. Be sure to have all documents ready to avoid delays.

3. Medical and Police Certificates

Make sure your medical exams and police certificates are up to date. These are essential for your application to be processed.

What to Do After the Draw

If you weren’t selected in this draw, don’t lose hope. Continue improving your CRS score, keep your profile updated, and consider other immigration pathways like Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Conclusion

The October 23, 2024, Express Entry draw is a remarkable opportunity for trade professionals seeking permanent residency in Canada. With 1,800 ITAs issued and a CRS cutoff of 433, this draw highlights Canada’s need for skilled workers in the trades. If you’re in one of the eligible occupations, now is the time to take advantage of this golden opportunity.