IRCC Issues 975 Express Entry ITAs in First Transport Occupation Category Draw of 2024

The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently conducted two Express Entry draws in March 2024. The first draw, held on March 12, invited 2,850 candidates from the three Express Entry managed immigration programs. The draw targeted workers in various fields, and eligible candidates required a minimum score of 525, which is 9 points less than the previous draw held on February 28, making it the lowest score for general draws in 2024.

The second draw of March, held on March 13, was exclusive to candidates in the transport occupations. This became the first transport occupations draw of 2024 and the third overall in the field. The draw issued 975 invitations to apply (ITAs), and candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 430.

In the latest draw, the eligible transport occupations included aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors, transport truck drivers, railway traffic controllers, railway carmen and women, marine traffic regulators, water transport engineer officers and deck officers, air traffic controllers and pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors, aircraft mechanics and inspectors, and transportation managers.

In February 2024, the IRCC completed six draws, inviting 16,110 candidates. The month opened and closed with category-based draws for candidates with strong proficiency in the French language. The first draw held on February 1 invited 7,000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 365, while the last draw held on February 29 invited 2,500 candidates with a minimum score of 336. The last draw of the month also featured the lowest CRS score of all draws made in 2024.

Two category-based draws took place on February 14 and 16, with the first involving 3,500 ITAs for candidates in healthcare occupations and a minimum CRS score of 422. The second draw involved 150 candidates in the agriculture and agri-food occupations with a minimum CRS score of 437. Two general Express Entry draws were also held on February 13 and 28, with the first involving 1,490 ITAs and a minimum score of 535 and the second involving 1,470 candidates with a minimum score of 534.

Overall, the IRCC has been conducting frequent draws in 2024, inviting a significant number of candidates to apply for permanent residence in Canada. The draws have targeted candidates from various fields, including healthcare, agriculture, transport, and those with strong proficiency in the French language.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility criteria for the first transport occupation category draw under Express Entry in 2024?

To be eligible for the first transport occupation category draw under Express Entry in 2024, candidates must have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 430 and meet the requirements of one of the eligible transportation occupations listed by the IRCC.

How has the CRS score cutoff for transportation occupations changed in the latest Express Entry draw?

The CRS score cutoff for transportation occupations in the latest Express Entry draw was 430, which is 5 points lower than the previous draw conducted on December 20, 2023.

What is the expected processing time for an ITA received in the transport occupation category of Express Entry?

The expected processing time for an ITA received in the transport occupation category of Express Entry may vary depending on various factors such as the completeness of the application and the workload of the processing office. However, IRCC aims to process complete applications within six months.

How many ITAs were issued for transportation occupations in the most recent Express Entry draw of 2024?

In the most recent Express Entry draw of 2024, the IRCC issued 975 ITAs for transportation occupations.

Can applicants with ITAs under the transport occupation category expect prioritized processing?

No, applicants with ITAs under the transport occupation category cannot expect prioritized processing. All applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and IRCC does not give priority to any specific occupation or category.

What are the steps to follow after receiving an ITA for the transport occupation category in Express Entry?

After receiving an ITA for the transport occupation category in Express Entry, candidates must submit a complete application for permanent residence within 60 days. This includes providing all required documents, paying the fees, and undergoing medical and security checks. If the application is approved, the candidate will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can then move to Canada as a permanent resident.