Express Entry 2024 Year In Review: Canada’s Evolving Immigration Priorities

The 2024 Express Entry system showcased Canada’s evolving immigration priorities, with a focus on targeted draws to address specific economic and regional needs. While ITA volumes declined compared to 2023, specialized draws, such as healthcare, STEM, and agriculture, highlighted Canada’s strategic response to labor shortages.

For candidates, 2024 demonstrated the importance of aligning profiles with Canada’s targeted pathways to maximize opportunities amidst tighter immigration levels.

On This Page You Will Find

• Overview of Express Entry in 2024: A recap of trends, including targeted draws and declining ITA volumes.
• Key Draw Types: Insights into Canadian Experience Class (CEC), PNP, and occupation-specific draws.
• CRS Scores in 2024: Analysis of lowest scores and competition dynamics.
• Advice for Candidates: Practical tips to optimize Express Entry profiles and succeed in 2024 and 2025.
• Looking Ahead to 2025: Projections for immigration priorities, including CEC and targeted draws.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration system, designed to streamline applications for permanent residency under three major programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). It uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.

In 2024, Express Entry adapted to align with Canada’s decision to reduce immigration targets for 2025. A closer analysis of the draws from 2023 and 2024 reveals how Canada is leveraging Express Entry to address economic priorities, regional labor shortages, and demographic challenges while managing the implications of smaller immigration quotas.

Total Number of ITAs

• 2024: 90,605 ITAs across 51 draws.
• 2023: 102,663 ITAs across 41 draws.

The 12% decline in ITAs from 2023 to 2024 reflects the federal government’s recalibration of immigration levels, emphasizing quality over quantity. While 2023 focused heavily on all-program draws with large ITA volumes, 2024 showed a shift toward targeted draws for specific sectors and demographics, such as healthcare and French-speakers. This approach aligns with Canada’s goal of addressing critical labor shortages and regional disparities amidst broader reductions in immigration levels.

Where Were the Lowest CRS Scores?

• 2024: Lowest CRS score was 336 (French-speakers, February 29).
• 2023: Lowest CRS score was 354 (Agriculture and Agri-Food, September 28).

Both years prioritized French-speakers and agricultural workers through draws with lower CRS thresholds. However, the introduction of more French-speakers draws in 2024 resulted in a greater distribution of low-CRS opportunities for bilingual candidates, reflecting Canada’s long-term goal of boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec.

All-Program Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 9
  • Total ITAs: 24,365
  • Average CRS: 471
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 17
  • Total ITAs: 62,900
  • Average CRS: 487

The reduction in all-program draws from 2023 to 2024 marks a significant shift in Express Entry’s strategy. While 2023 relied heavily on large all-program draws to meet broad immigration goals, 2024 scaled back, reallocating resources toward more targeted draws. The slightly lower average CRS score in 2024 may reflect Canada’s attempt to make the process more accessible to mid-ranking candidates while focusing on strategic priorities.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 9
  • Total ITAs: 20,200
  • Average CRS: 493
• 2023: None

CEC draws were reintroduced in 2024 after not being conducted in 2023. First conducted in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, these draws specifically target candidates with Canadian work experience, reflecting the government’s continued preference for retaining individuals already integrated into the labor market. The average CRS of 493 in 2024 suggests a competitive landscape, driven by limited overall ITA quotas and the prioritization of candidates likely to contribute immediately to the economy.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 15
  • Total ITAs: 22,447
  • Average CRS: 702
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 8
  • Total ITAs: 5,450
  • Average CRS: 694

PNP draws in 2024 surged in both frequency and volume, becoming a cornerstone of the Express Entry system. The higher number of ITAs reflects provincial governments’ active participation in addressing regional labor market needs. The increase in average CRS scores suggests intensified competition for these coveted nominations, which grant candidates 600 additional CRS points and effectively guarantee an ITA.

French-Speakers Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 11
  • Total ITAs: 16,900
  • Average CRS: 426
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 8
  • Total ITAs: 17,200
  • Average CRS: 448

French-speakers draws continued to play a significant role in both years, with 2024 featuring more frequent draws but slightly fewer ITAs. The lower average CRS score in 2024 may indicate Canada’s effort to make these draws more accessible, encouraging greater participation from Francophone communities. These draws align with Canada’s Francophone immigration strategy, aiming to boost French-speaking populations outside Quebec.

Healthcare Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 2
  • Total ITAs: 6,500
  • Average CRS: 453
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 3
  • Total ITAs: 2,500
  • Average CRS: 467

Healthcare draws expanded significantly in 2024, reflecting Canada’s urgent need for medical professionals amidst aging demographics and post-pandemic pressures on the healthcare system. The lower CRS scores in 2024 suggest an effort to attract more diverse talent by reducing barriers for qualified healthcare workers.

STEM Occupations Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 1
  • Total ITAs: 4,500
  • Average CRS: 491
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 2
  • Total ITAs: 6,400
  • Average CRS: 484

STEM draws remained a priority in both years, targeting tech and engineering professionals to support Canada’s innovation economy. The reduced number of draws in 2024 likely reflects the shift in focus toward other critical sectors like healthcare, although the demand for STEM talent remains strong.

Trade Occupations Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 2
  • Total ITAs: 3,600
  • Average CRS: 435
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 2
  • Total ITAs: 2,500
  • Average CRS: 406

Trade occupations draws grew in ITA volume and CRS thresholds in 2024, highlighting the government’s focus on addressing critical infrastructure and skilled trades gaps. The higher CRS scores reflect increased competition among candidates in this sector.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Draws

• 2024:
  • Number of Draws: 1
  • Total ITAs: 150
  • Average CRS: 437
• 2023:
  • Number of Draws: 2
  • Total ITAs: 1,000
  • Average CRS: 370

Agriculture-focused draws in 2024 were drastically reduced in volume, indicating a narrower focus on high-priority candidates in this sector. Despite fewer ITAs, the higher CRS threshold suggests a more competitive process for applicants.

Key Developments in Express Entry During 2024

1. Targeted Occupation Draws: Canada significantly increased the frequency of occupation-specific draws, including healthcare and STEM, to address labor shortages.
2. Increased Role for PNPs: PNP draws became a cornerstone of the system, enabling provinces to address regional labor gaps with precision.
3. Focus on Francophone Immigration: More French-speakers draws were conducted with lower CRS scores to promote Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
4. Smaller All-Program Draws: These draws were less frequent and smaller, signaling a shift toward strategic immigration rather than broad intake.
5. Higher Competition: The overall reduction in ITAs led to higher CRS thresholds across most draw types, emphasizing the importance of strong profiles for candidates.

Advice for Candidates

Navigating Canada’s Express Entry system in 2024 required a strategic approach due to evolving immigration priorities and increased competition. Here are key recommendations to enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA):

1. Align Your Profile with Targeted Occupations

• Identify In-Demand Sectors: Focus on occupations that Canada has prioritized, such as healthcare, STEM fields, and skilled trades. Highlight relevant experience and qualifications in these areas.
• Tailor Your Application: Customize your Express Entry profile to reflect the skills and experience that match targeted draw criteria. Emphasize certifications, education, and work history pertinent to these sectors.

2. Improve Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

• Enhance Language Proficiency: Achieving higher scores in English and French language tests can significantly boost your CRS points. Consider intensive language training if necessary.
• Gain Additional Qualifications: Pursue further education or professional certifications that are recognized in Canada to increase your educational credentials score.
• Accumulate Work Experience: More years of skilled work experience can elevate your CRS score. If possible, gain Canadian work experience through temporary work permits or international exchanges.

3. Leverage Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

• Research Provincial Needs: Different provinces have specific labor shortages. Identifying provinces where your occupation is in demand can increase your chances of receiving a nomination.
• Apply Directly to PNPs: Submitting an expression of interest to provincial programs can lead to a nomination, adding 600 points to your CRS score and virtually guaranteeing an ITA.

4. Consider French Language Skills

• Capitalize on French-Speakers Draws: Canada has shown a commitment to boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec. If you are proficient in French, ensure this is reflected in your language test results.
• Learn French: If you have basic proficiency, improving your French can make you eligible for French-speakers draws, which often have lower CRS cut-offs.

5. Stay Informed About Policy Changes

• Monitor Official Updates: Keep abreast of changes to immigration policies, draw types, and eligibility criteria by regularly checking the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
• Adapt Your Strategy: Be prepared to adjust your approach based on the latest information, such as focusing on different programs or provinces that align with new priorities.

6. Strengthen Your Canadian Experience

• Utilize the Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have Canadian work experience, ensure it is well-documented in your profile, as CEC draws have been reintroduced and favor candidates already integrated into the workforce.
• Network Within Canada: Building professional connections can lead to job opportunities that provide Canadian work experience and potential job offers, both of which can enhance your CRS score.

7. Prepare for Increased Competition

• Submit a Complete and Accurate Application: Ensure all documents are up-to-date and meet IRCC requirements to avoid delays or rejections.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals who can provide personalized guidance and help optimize your application.

8. Be Patient and Persistent

• Anticipate Longer Processing Times: With higher competition and reduced ITA quotas, processing may take longer. Patience is essential.
• Keep Your Profile Active: Regularly update your Express Entry profile with any new qualifications or changes in personal circumstances.

9. Explore Alternative Pathways

• Other Immigration Programs: If Express Entry becomes highly competitive, consider other federal or provincial programs that might be more aligned with your profile.
• Education Opportunities: Studying in Canada can provide Canadian credentials and work experience, improving your eligibility for various immigration programs.

10. Highlight Adaptability and Cultural Fit

• Showcase Soft Skills: Emphasize qualities like adaptability, cultural awareness, and language abilities that indicate your potential to integrate successfully into Canadian society.
• Community Involvement: Demonstrating a commitment to community engagement can be advantageous, especially in provincial nominations.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Canada’s Immigration Priorities and Express Entry Focus

Canada’s Express Entry system will undergo significant adjustments in 2025, with a renewed focus on candidates already residing in the country and a targeted approach to addressing labor shortages in key sectors. With the federal government setting lower overall immigration targets, Express Entry pathways will emphasize the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and occupation-specific draws, while maintaining opportunities for French-speaking immigrants.

Increased Emphasis on Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

In 2025, Canada plans to welcome 82,980 new immigrants, mainly through the Canadian Experience Class. This category will dominate the Express Entry system, signaling a strategic focus on retaining individuals who are already well-integrated into the labor market and Canadian society.

• Why CEC is a Priority:
  Candidates in this category have Canadian work experience, are familiar with workplace norms, and can quickly contribute to the economy. This focus reflects the government’s goal of strengthening economic recovery while ensuring newcomers adapt easily.
• What This Means for Candidates:
  Those with Canadian work experience should highlight it prominently in their profiles. Current international students and temporary foreign workers in Canada will have a distinct advantage, particularly if they are eligible to apply under the CEC pathway.

Targeted Draws for Occupations and French-Speakers

Canada also aims to welcome 41,700 new immigrants through targeted occupation-specific and French-speakers draws in 2025. These specialized pathways reflect the government’s continued focus on addressing critical labor shortages and boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec.

• Occupation-Specific Draws:
  • Healthcare: Physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals will remain a priority to support Canada’s overburdened healthcare system.
  • STEM Fields: Engineers, IT professionals, and data scientists will be critical as Canada invests in innovation and technology-driven industries.
  • Trades: Construction, manufacturing, and other skilled trades will address infrastructure demands and labor shortages in these sectors.
  • Agriculture: Workers in farming and food processing will continue to support Canada’s essential food supply chain.
• French-Speakers Draws:
  Canada will prioritize French-speaking candidates to meet its goal of increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec. These draws often feature lower CRS thresholds, providing opportunities for bilingual candidates to qualify with competitive profiles.

Strategic CRS Thresholds and Competition

While the overall immigration targets are lower in 2025, the specific focus on CEC and targeted draws will make the competition more manageable for eligible candidates.

• CRS Scores for CEC Candidates: The reintroduction of CEC-focused draws in 2024 has shown that these draws typically feature mid-to-high CRS thresholds, rewarding candidates with strong Canadian work experience and education.
• Lower CRS for French-Speakers: Francophone immigration pathways will continue to offer reduced CRS requirements, making them accessible for bilingual candidates who align with this demographic focus.

What Candidates Should Do to Prepare

1. Maximize Canadian Experience:
   • Gain work experience through temporary work permits or Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP).
   • Secure long-term employment in Canada to strengthen your eligibility for the CEC pathway.
2. Tailor Profiles to Targeted Occupations:
   • If you work in healthcare, STEM, trades, or agriculture, ensure your profile highlights qualifications, certifications, and relevant experience.
   • Align your application with the specific needs of targeted draw categories.
3. Improve French Proficiency:
   • If you have basic French skills, consider taking additional language training to become eligible for French-speakers draws.
   • Achieve competitive language test scores (e.g., TEF or TCF) to maximize CRS points.
4. Leverage Provincial Opportunities:
   • Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for additional pathways to permanent residency. Many provinces actively nominate candidates with Canadian work experience and in-demand skills.
5. Keep Profiles Updated:
   • Regularly update your Express Entry profile with any new qualifications, work experience, or language scores to stay competitive in the pool.

A Balanced Strategy for 2025

Canada’s approach in 2025 reflects a dual focus: retaining talent already in the country and addressing specific labor market needs through targeted draws. By emphasizing pathways like the Canadian Experience Class and occupation-specific draws, the system ensures both economic adaptability and integration success.

For candidates, 2025 represents an opportunity to leverage Canadian experience, align with occupational demands, and explore Francophone pathways to secure permanent residency. With a strategic and well-prepared application, candidates can position themselves to thrive in Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.

FAQs About Express Entry 2024 and 2025