Canada intends to welcome 411,000 permanent residents this year. It is the most ambitious target that Canada has ever set. 

Here are some Express Entry changes to expect this 2022.

Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada’s online immigration system that manages most permanent residency applications the federal government receives. It is one of the key components that will assist Canada with its immigration levels target.

Unfortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) ceased draws for the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program in December 2020, and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) in September 2021. Without these draws, eligible candidates will not receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and they will not be able to pursue their applications for Permanent Residency in Canada.

IRCC has been struggling with the vast amount of pending applications gathered since the onset of the pandemic. Fortunately, a more efficient immigration system has been implemented to help reduce arrears.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

Because Express Entry works as a ranking system, it is essential for candidates to have a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The more points a candidate is awarded, the more likely they will get selected in the draws.

In February of last year, the federal government took radical measures to meet its immigration target. After dropping the CRS score to 75 points, they invited over 27,000 candidates to apply for Permanent Residence. This is the highest number of candidates drawn from an Express Entry draw.

There is always the possibility that Canada will reduce the CRS score once again to meet their levels plan. However, with the buildup of applicants in the Express Entry pool, it is likely that the required CRS score will be high when the draws resume in July.

2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC)

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is how the country classifies occupation shortages.

Currently, economic immigration programs use the 2016 NOC version where skills are divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D). Only candidates with occupations listed under A or B are eligible to apply.

However, starting in July, a new NOC will take precedent. 

The 2021 NOC will no longer adopt a skills-type approach but will classify jobs based on “TEER” categories – Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities. 

While there have been no announcements on how this will impact candidates currently eligible under the 2016 NOC, this would be a huge factor to keep your eyes on if you are interested in applying under one of the Express Entry economic programs.