A total of 3,409 candidates have been issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the first Express Entry draw to occur since recent changes to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) were introduced on June 6, 2017. The latest draw, which took place on June 28, 2017, saw a minimum CRS score of 449…

While the minimum CRS cut-off of the most recent draw was higher than in previous draws, it should be noted that there was a delay of 28 days between this most recent draw and the previous draw, on May 31. As a result, more individuals have entered the pool over that period, meaning there was a larger pool to draw from. In addition, many candidates who were already in the pool received a boost in their score on June 6 when additional points were introduced for siblings in Canada, and French language ability. Now that some of these candidates have exited the pool, it may be expected that CRS requirements may decrease in future draws, as has been the trend throughout 2017.

In order to be in a position to receive an ITA in an Express Entry draw, individuals are first required to meet the eligibility criteria of one of the three immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system — the Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC), Federal Skilled Trades Class (FTSC), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Upon entering the pool, candidates are assigned a CRS score based on factors including civil status information, education, work experience, language ability, and other criteria. This score determines their ranking in the pool. During periodic draws, IRCC issues ITAs to the highest-ranking candidates. Those candidates who receive an ITA may submit an application for Canadian permanent resident status.