In March 2023, Canada’s Express Entry system achieved four significant milestones, including setting a record for the highest number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued in a single all-program draw since its inception in 2015.
Express Entry is a comprehensive application management system utilized by the Canadian federal government to oversee immigration applications from three programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). As per the Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, Canada aims to welcome at least 82,000 new immigrants through Express Entry each year for the next three years.
During March, Canada’s Express Entry system experienced several key moments, which are highlighted below:
The future of Express Entry remains unpredictable, with no standard procedure for the timing or number of ITAs issued in a draw. However, it is anticipated that IRCC will initiate targeted draws in Q2 of this year. These targeted Express Entry draws will enable IRCC to issue ITAs based on specific factors such as occupation, education, language skills, etc., helping Canada address specific labour market needs and enhancing the impact of immigration across all provinces and territories.