Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its third Express Entry draw of December 2024, issuing 1,085 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-specific draw. To receive an ITA in this round, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 727.
December 2024 Express Entry Draws Overview
This latest draw aligns with the pattern observed in December 2024, where IRCC alternates between different Express Entry categories:
December 2, 2024
- Draw Type: PNP-Specific
- Number of ITAs: 676
- Minimum CRS Score: 705
December 3, 2024
- Draw Type: French Language Proficiency
- Number of ITAs: 800
- Minimum CRS Score: 466
In November 2024, IRCC conducted six Express Entry draws, issuing a total of 5,507 ITAs for permanent residence.
Anticipated Trends for 2025
The recently announced Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027 highlights a significant shift towards candidates already residing in Canada. The “In-Canada” category will prioritize applications from:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Regional programs
- Candidates within the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For 2025, the In-Canada category has been allocated 82,980 permanent residence admissions, representing over 40% of the planned total for the year.
Understanding Express Entry and the CRS
Express Entry is Canada’s system for managing applications for three federal economic immigration programs:
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Additionally, candidates who apply through Express Entry-aligned PNP streams can receive invitations through this system. These are known as enhanced provincial nominations, which add 600 CRS points to a candidate’s score, significantly improving the chances of receiving an ITA.
How CRS Works
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Age
- Occupation
- Language proficiency
- Education
- Work experience
Recent Express Entry Draws: December 2024
Below is a summary of the most recent Express Entry draws:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 16 | Provincial Nominee Program | 1,085 | 727 |
| December 3 | French Language Proficiency | 800 | 466 |
| December 2 | Provincial Nominee Program | 676 | 705 |
| November 20 | Healthcare Occupations | 3,000 | 463 |
| November 19 | Canadian Experience Class | 400 | 539 |
| November 18 | Provincial Nominee Program | 174 | 816 |
These draws reflect IRCC’s targeted approach to addressing specific labor market and demographic needs.
Implications for Prospective Applicants
The alternating focus on PNP, CEC, and French Language Proficiency draws highlights the need for candidates to tailor their applications. To improve their CRS score and chances of receiving an ITA, candidates should consider:
- Enhancing language proficiency (e.g., improving French skills).
- Gaining Canadian work experience through eligible programs.
- Securing a provincial nomination through Express Entry-aligned PNP streams.
Conclusion
IRCC’s recent Express Entry draws showcase a strategic approach to immigration, emphasizing candidates who can contribute effectively to Canada’s labor market and demographic objectives.
Prospective applicants should stay updated with the latest trends and strategically position themselves within the Express Entry system to enhance their chances of achieving permanent residence in Canada.
