IRCC conducts first Express Entry draw of April 2023, invites 3,500 candidates
Summary: In April 2023, the IRCC issued 3,500 ITAs to candidates who scored a minimum of 486 in the first Express Entry draw. The draw included candidates from the CEC, FSWP, and FSTP programs. CEC candidates whose PGWPs are set to expire soon could benefit from the large all-program draws. Moreover, PGWP holders can now apply for an 18-month open work permit extension. The IRCC plans to invite 82,880 candidates for permanent residency through Express Entry this year, and Expedite Visa is available to assist you with your Express Entry application process.
On April 6, 2023, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the first Express Entry draw of the month, issuing 3,500 invitations to apply (ITAs) to candidates in an all-program draw. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 486, and candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) were considered. This draw follows three consecutive Express Entry draws where 7,000 candidates were invited.
Immigration Levels Plan aims to invite 82,880 candidates through Express Entry this year
This year, the IRCC has set an ambitious Immigration Levels Plan, aiming to invite 82,880 candidates for permanent residency through Express Entry. The targets are set to rise to 114,000 by 2025. The large all-program draws could be beneficial for candidates in the CEC, as many have been voicing concerns about their Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) set to expire soon.
PGWP holders now eligible for 18-month open work permit extension
To address this concern, the immigration minister, Sean Fraser, recently announced that PGWP holders can now apply for an 18-month open work permit extension as of April 6. This extension is intended to ease the burden for PGWP holders who were struggling to secure alternative work permits or obtain visitor records if their PGWP expired before receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
How Express Entry program evaluates high-skilled economic immigrants
Express Entry is a program management system that objectively evaluates high-skilled economic immigrants. The system ranks and scores candidates based on various criteria, including occupation, work experience, age, language ability, education, and other human capital factors. After receiving an ITA, candidates have 60 days to submit their final application to IRCC. An officer will then review the application to determine whether the candidate is approved for permanent resident status.
Expedite Visa offers personalized support for Express Entry candidates
If you’re interested in taking advantage of the recent Express Entry draws and need assistance with your application, Expedite Visa is here to help. Our team of experienced immigration consultants can provide you with personalized support and guidance throughout the entire process. Contact us today to learn more about our Express Entry services and take the first step towards achieving your Canadian immigration goals.