On August 20, Canada once again released a round of invitations for Express Entry, the second in two days. This recent round, the 161st overall since the program began in 2015, issued a total of 3,300 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream. 

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this draw was 454, nine points higher than the previous CEC-targeted draw held last July 23. As Canada progresses with their new normal, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has once again begun holding all-program Express Entry draws. This has resulted in more candidates entering the pool, and higher cut-off scores for recent draws. 

However, IRCC continues to hold program-specific draws, as they have done so since the beginning of Canada’s border closures in March. Since March, CEC-specific draws have followed on the heels of draws targeting Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. The total number of ITAs from both draws often result in a round number. 

A tie-break rule was implemented for this recent draw. Candidates with a CRS score of at least 454 who submitted their profile before July 27, 2020, 11:10:05 UTC, likely received an invitation this round.

As of this round of invitations, the total number of ITAs issued this year is now at 65,750. Canada continues to remain on-track to achieving their immigration target for this year, despite the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, their numbers this year are higher than they have been at around the same time in the last two years.

Though coronavirus restrictions still remain in place for the health and safety of all involved, candidates may continue to submit a profile in the Express Entry system. The IRCC has continued to accept and process applications for permanent residency.

Are you qualified for Express Entry? Fill in our eligibility form for a free assessment to find out!