If you’re waiting for the COVID-19 pandemic to pass before applying for Canadian permanent residency you might want to reconsider because Express Entry draws are not only continuing as usual but also inviting candidates with low CRS scores.
On April 16, 2020, 3, 782 invitations to apply (ITA) were issued to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with CRS scores as low as 455. That’s a 12-point decrease from the previous CEC - specific draw. This draw follows the Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) specific draw on April 15, 2020, which invited 118 candidates with provincial nominations and CRS scores of 808.
The total number of ITAs issued so far for the year is 26, 618!
5 Frequently Asked Questions About the Express Entry Draw
1. What is the Express Entry Draw?
Express Entry Background
In 2015, Canada created the Express Entry immigration system as a way to fast track immigration applications from skilled international workers. This came after the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) introduced a groundbreaking immigration target of more than one million immigrants by 2021. The majority of the immigrants will be skilled workers to meet Canada’s future labor market needs to maintain long-term economic growth.
2. How Can I Apply to Enter the Express Entry Draw?
You can enter the Express Entry pool by creating an Express Entry profile online. After filling out all your details and creating a profile you may qualify for one of the Express Entry programs below. In addition, you’ll also receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score which is given to candidates based on factors such as age, education, skilled work experience and proficiency in English or French. You are then entered into the Express Entry pool and every two weeks, the highest scoring candidates in the pool are sent ITAs. Skilled international workers are divided into four economic categories:
3. Is Receiving an ITA the Same as Receiving Permanent Residency?
No. An Invitation to Apply (ITA) is a formal invitation from the ICCRC that allows you to officially apply for permanent residency in Canada. That means you need to fill in the paperwork and submit documents that support your Express Entry details. For example, if you claimed CRS points for having a Bachelor's Degree you have to submit proof of your education certificate as well as verification that your degree is equal to Canadian standards.
4. How Long Is the Express Entry Immigration Process?
Immigrating to a different country is never a quick, and easy process but the Express Entry system is as fast and efficient as it gets. The Express Entry system can process applications in as little as 4-6 months depending on your CRS score and if you receive an ITA soon after you entered the draw. Your profile will stay active for one year from the date you created it. The entire process includes creating a profile, receiving an ITA, collecting all supporting documents, and submitting a complete and accurate application.
5. What Happens If My CRS Score Is Too Low?
It’s not the end of the road if your CRS score is low. You can take additional steps to boost your score, such as:
Increase your level of education
The maximum number of points you can score for education is 230 points. This makes going back to school to earn a postgraduate qualification worth your while if you want to immigrate to Canada.
Get a Canadian job offer
If you can get a job offer from an eligible Canadian employer you can score anything from 50 to 200 additional CRS points!
Secure a Provincial Nomination
If you can secure a provincial nomination through one of the Provincial Nominee Programs, you will score a staggering 600 CRS points! This will essentially guarantee you an ITA in the Express Entry seeing as the general minimum cut-off point is around the 450 mark.Find more tips to improve your CRS score here.
How We Can Help You Master Express Entry
If you want your profile to be entered into the Express Entry Draw and more importantly, if you want to receive an ITA to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency, you are on the right track. At MDC, we specialize in making Canadian immigration as simple and effective as possible. Our professional team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) is authorized and trusted by the Canadian government to assist you with the rigorous immigration process, from start to finish. Consult with us today to discover your options to immigrate to Canada.