IRCC Issues Invitations to Apply ITAs in a PNP Specific Draw

The 12th Express Entry draw of 2023 was held by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants. A total of 589 invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued, and candidates were required to have a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 691. This was the fourth PNP-specific draw for Express Entry pool candidates who have also been nominated by a Canadian province. The previous PNP draw occurred on March 1st and invited 667 hopefuls. Since then, all draws have encompassed all programs within Express Entry.

On May 2, 2023, IRCC announced an update to the amount of money that must be available to Express Entry candidates before they can settle in Canada. All candidates in the Express Entry pool must demonstrate proof of adequate funds for relocation. Candidates applying for the Canadian Experience Class or those with a valid job offer in Express Entry who have authorization to work in Canada are exempt from providing financial evidence. This includes applicants for both the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program.

IRCC adjusts the amount of settlement funds necessary for Express Entry candidates annually based on 50% of the low-income cut-off totals and varies depending on the number of people a candidate is responsible for supporting. It is mandatory for those wishing to remain eligible to update their profiles accordingly.

Express Entry has seen significant activity in 2023. On April 26, IRCC invited 3,500 individuals who achieved a CRS score of 483. Comparatively, on April 12, they extended an invitation to another 3,500 people with a minimum CRS score of 486. However, during March, more than 21,000 candidates were issued invites over four consecutive draws, with three of them inviting 7,000 each. Statistics show that during March 2021, Express Entry saw an impressive number of invitations to apply for Canadian permanent residence, which is the second-highest ever after February’s 27,332.

To remain competitive, Express Entry candidates must ensure they have a competitive CRS score and adequate settlement funds. Updating their profiles regularly and being aware of the latest updates and changes to the program is crucial to their success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum CRS score required for the latest Express Entry draw?

The latest Express Entry draw was a PNP-specific draw, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 691. This score is subject to change for future draws.

How often does IRCC conduct PNP-specific Express Entry draws?

IRCC conducts PNP-specific Express Entry draws periodically throughout the year. The frequency of these draws may vary depending on the needs of the Canadian provinces and territories.

What are the chances of receiving an ITA with a PNP nomination?

Receiving a Provincial Nomination (PN) can significantly increase the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. However, the chances of receiving an ITA with a PN nomination depend on various factors, including the CRS score, the number of candidates in the pool, and the number of available ITAs.

Can candidates with a provincial nomination expect an ITA in the next draw?

Although candidates with a PN nomination receive additional CRS points, it is not guaranteed that they will receive an ITA in the next draw. The number of available ITAs, the CRS score of other candidates, and other factors can impact the likelihood of receiving an ITA.

How does receiving a Notification of Interest from a province impact Express Entry applications?

Receiving a Notification of Interest (NOI) from a province does not guarantee a PN nomination or an ITA. However, it indicates that the candidate meets the eligibility criteria for the PN program and has a higher chance of receiving a PN nomination in the future.

Is a PNP nomination equivalent to a guaranteed ITA for Canadian permanent residency?

A PN nomination is not equivalent to a guaranteed ITA for Canadian permanent residency. Although a PN nomination significantly increases the chances of receiving an ITA, it does not guarantee it. The candidate must still meet the eligibility criteria for the ITA and have a sufficient CRS score.