Within Canada’s immigration system, the Express Entry Canadian Experience Class 2nd Draw (CEC) is a category intended for skilled workers with Canadian work experience who want to become permanent residents. The CEC primarily targets people who, within the last three years, have at least one year of competent job experience in Canada and have thus proven their capacity to integrate into the Canadian labor market.
From 2021 to 2024, there was a significant hiatus in CEC draws Canada was focusing on PNP draws and Category Based Draws. Recently, the draws have resumed,this resumption is part of Canada’s broader effort to address labor shortages and support economic recovery by attracting skilled immigrants who have already proven their adaptability and potential to contribute to the Canadian economy.
Draw Update
Canada has recently conducted a Canadian Experience Class 2nd Draw (CEC) draw, issuing 6,300 Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
This draw, held on July 17, saw a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 515 points, which is seven points lower than the previous CEC draw on May 31, 2024. The May 31 draw had a minimum CRS score of 522 points and issued 3,000 ITAs.
The most recent draw before the CEC draw was a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw held on July 16, 2024. It issued 1,391 ITAs with a minimum CRS score of 670.
So far this month IRCC has issued 17,361 ITAs over six separate draws as follows
- Nine all-program draws
- Five draws targeted at French speakers
- One draw targeted at transport jobs
- One draw targeted at agriculture and agri-food occupations
- Two draws targeted at healthcare occupations
- One draw targeted at STEM occupations
- Four PNP draws
- Two CEC draws
- One draw targeted at trade occupations
What to Do Next After Receiving An ITA?
A thrilling step towards becoming a permanent resident of Canada is receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) under the Canadian Experience Class 2nd Draw (CEC). It shows that you are making progress, but there are a few important things you should do to make sure the application process goes well.
Upon receiving your ITA, carefully read the details provided in the invitation. Make sure you understand the requirements, deadlines, and documentation you will need to submit.
Firstly you would need to gather documents to support your application. Then Log into your Express Entry account and start filling out the online application. Make sure all information is accurate and consistent with the supporting documents. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or refusal.
You have 60 days from the date you receive your ITA to submit your complete application for permanent residence. Ensure that all forms are filled out correctly and all required documents are uploaded.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if you are from a visa-required country).
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM CEC’S FUTURE – EXPRESS ENTRY DRAWS
The most recent Canadian Experience Class 2nd Draw (CEC) Express Entry Draw shows the country’s strategic change towards moving temporary residents toward permanent status. This move is a response to growing concerns about how the housing crisis may be impacted by the growing number of temporary inhabitants. The government intends to stabilize the housing market and better manage the number of temporary residents by hastening the process of giving permanent status to these persons.
Anticipated Trends for 2024
General Draw Quota
If Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) maintains a general draw quota of approximately 40%, we can expect around 25,000 to 26,000 additional Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across all program draws this year.
Large Share for CEC
Due to the strategic importance of the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), it is anticipated that a significant portion of these ITAs will be allocated to CEC candidates. This focus aims to facilitate the transition of temporary residents, who have already established themselves in Canada through work and education, to permanent residents, thereby continuing their contributions to the Canadian economy.
CRS Cutoff Scores
- General Draws: For general Express Entry draws, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cutoff score is expected to remain around 550. This high threshold underscores the competitive nature of the Express Entry system and the value placed on highly skilled candidates.
- CEC-Only Draws: For CEC-specific draws, the CRS cutoff score is projected to stay above 500. Although this may be slightly lower than the general draw cut-off, it still highlights the importance of optimizing one’s profile to achieve high CRS scores.
Navigating the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw process can be a transformative journey toward achieving permanent residency in Canada. With the recent resumption of CEC draws and a significant number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) being issued, there is renewed hope and opportunity for skilled workers who have already integrated into Canadian society. By understanding the steps involved, gathering the necessary documents, and ensuring your application is complete and accurate, you can maximize your chances of success.
As Canada continues to value the contributions of temporary residents and aims to bolster its economy through strategic immigration policies, the CEC remains a vital pathway for many aspiring permanent residents. Stay informed, be prepared, and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the CEC draw to embark on your new life in Canada.
