Category: GTR Immigration

Canada’s Express Entry system continues to shape the country’s immigration landscape, offering skilled workers pathways to permanent residency. The latest draws, conducted on December 2 and December 3, 2024, showcase Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting top talent and addressing the diverse needs of its economy. Here’s a breakdown of the latest Express Entry draw details:

December 3, 2024: French-Speaking Candidates Draw

On December 3rd, Canada issued 800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency to French-speaking candidates in the latest Express Entry draw. This draw targeted profiles with Level 7 proficiency in French, as demonstrated by language test results, such as those from the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) or the Test de connaissance du français (TCF).

The candidates selected in this round required a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 466 or higher. This draw underlines Canada’s ongoing focus on Francophone immigration, especially to support French-speaking communities outside Quebec, which are integral to the country’s multicultural and multilingual fabric.

December 2, 2024: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draw

The previous day, on December 2nd, another significant draw occurred under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream, in which 676 ITAs for permanent residency were issued. This draw targeted candidates who were nominated by Canadian provinces for specific roles needed within those regions. The CRS score cutoff for this PNP-specific draw was 705.

Candidates in the PNP draw benefit from receiving a provincial nomination, which provides them with a 600-point bonus under the CRS, significantly boosting their chances of receiving an ITA. The high CRS cutoff of 705 reflects the selectivity of this round, focusing on individuals who have strong provincial endorsements and who meet the specialized labor needs of Canadian provinces.

Canada’s commitment to immigration continues to evolve, with Express Entry remaining a key tool for economic growth. Candidates aspiring to immigrate in coming time should continue improving their language skills, gaining work experience, and staying updated on the latest Express Entry draws and changes to maximize their chances of success.

When it comes to immigration and living in Canada, two important terms often come up: Permanent Residency (PR) and Canadian Citizenship. While both statuses allow individuals to live and work in Canada, they come with distinct rights, responsibilities, and processes. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone considering making Canada their home.

Permanent Residency (PR)

A Permanent Resident (PR) is a person who has been granted permission to live and work in Canada indefinitely, but is not a Canadian citizen. Permanent residents enjoy many of the same rights as Canadian citizens but have certain limitations. A PR status can be revoked if the individual does not meet the residency requirements or violates certain laws.

Canadian Citizenship

Canadian citizenship is a legal status that grants individuals the full rights of being a Canadian. Once you become a Canadian citizen, you enjoy all the rights and privileges of a citizen, including the right to vote, apply for a Canadian passport, and live in Canada indefinitely without worrying about residency conditions.

Rights and Responsibilities

Permanent Resident (PR):

• Rights:
  • – Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.
  • – Access to health care and other social benefits available to Canadian citizens.
  • – Protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
  • Ability to sponsor family members for immigration to Canada.
• Responsibilities:
  • – Must maintain PR status by living in Canada for at least 2 years within every 5-year period.
  • – Cannot vote in federal, provincial, or municipal elections.
  • – Cannot run for office or hold government positions that require Canadian citizenship.
  • – Must follow Canadian laws and regulations.

Canadian Citizenship:

• Rights:
  • – Full voting rights: Citizens have the right to vote in federal, provincial, and local elections.
  • – The right to run for public office and hold government positions.
  • – The ability to apply for a Canadian passport and enjoy the protections that come with it, including consular assistance from Canadian embassies and consulates worldwide.
  • – Protection from deportation, as citizens cannot lose their status or be deported from Canada.
• Responsibilities:
  • – Must obey Canadian laws and participate in civic duties (e.g., paying taxes).
  • – May be subject to jury duty and could be required to serve in the event of national defense needs.
  • – Loyalty to Canada: Canadians are expected to adhere to the country’s values and laws and not engage in acts that may endanger national security.

Process of Obtaining PR and Citizenship

Permanent Residency:

• – To obtain PR status, individuals typically apply through one of Canada’s immigration programs, such as Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or as a refugee.
• – After receiving approval, individuals become permanent residents and can live, work, and study in Canada for as long as they meet the residency requirements.
• – PR status can be lost if the individual commits a serious crime or fails to meet the residency obligation.

Canadian Citizenship:

• To apply for citizenship, a Permanent Resident must meet specific criteria:
  • – Must have lived in Canada for at least 3 years (1,095 days) out of the last 5 years.
  • – Must demonstrate proficiency in English or French (if between 18 and 54 years old).
  • – Must pass a citizenship test (covering Canadian history, values, institutions, and symbols).
  • – Must file Canadian taxes for at least 3 years within the 5-year period before applying.
• Once the application is approved, the individual must attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship, formally becoming a Canadian citizen.

Duration of Status

• – Permanent Residency is not necessarily permanent. PR holders must meet residency obligations to maintain their status. If they fail to do so, they could lose their PR status and may even face deportation.

• – Canadian Citizenship is permanent and cannot be revoked unless the person obtained it through fraudulent means or other extreme circumstances.

Passing citizenship to children

• Children of Permanent Residents:
  While children of Permanent Residents cannot automatically inherit PR status unless the parent sponsors them or they are included in the immigration process, Permanent Residents with children born abroad can still secure PR status for their children through sponsorship. However, the child will not have the same rights as a Canadian citizen and may need to meet residency requirements to maintain their PR status.

• Children of Canadian Citizens:
  Canadian citizens are automatically able to pass on citizenship to their children, even if the child is born outside Canada. This simplifies the process for families living abroad or planning to move back to Canada, as the child will not need to apply for Canadian immigration or citizenship separately, provided the parent is a Canadian citizen at the time of birth.

Key Differences at a Glance

Aspect	Permanent Resident (PR)	Canadian Citizenship
Residency Requirement	Must live in Canada for 2 out of 5 years.	Must live in Canada for 3 out of 5 years.
Voting Rights	No	Yes
Government Positions	Cannot hold government positions requiring citizenship	Eligible for all government positions
Passport	Cannot get a Canadian passport.	Can apply for a Canadian passport.
Deportation Risk	Can be deported if PR status is revoked.	Cannot be deported once citizenship is granted.
Sponsorship	Can sponsor family members for immigration.	Can sponsor family members for immigration.
Right to pass status to children born outside the country	No	Yes, if parent is also born in Canada

Both Permanent Residency and Canadian Citizenship offer incredible benefits, but they come with different sets of rights and responsibilities. Permanent Residents enjoy many of the same privileges as citizens, but they cannot vote or hold certain government positions. On the other hand, Canadian Citizens enjoy full political rights and protections, including the right to apply for a Canadian passport and the security of never losing their status unless they commit serious offenses.

If you’re looking to make Canada your permanent home, understanding the difference between these two statuses is crucial for making an informed decision about your long-term plans in the country. Whether you start as a permanent resident or pursue citizenship, Canada offers a welcoming environment for individuals seeking opportunities and a higher quality of life.

On November 12, 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its first Express Entry draw of November, issuing 733 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian Permanent Residence (PR). The draw targeted candidates from all Express Entry categories, with a provincial nomination from one of Canada’s provinces and a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 812 or higher.

Details of this Express Entry draw

• Program: Provincial Nominee Program

• Number of issued invitations: 733

• Rank required to be invited to apply: 733 or higher

• CRS score of lowest-ranked invited candidate: 812

The CRS score jumped 21 points from the previous PNP-only draw on October 21, 2024.

Immigration Levels Plan Prioritizes In-Canada candidates

The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan reflects Canada’s evolving immigration priorities with an increased “In-Canada Focus” . This is a clear indication that the Canada Government continues to prioritize candidates who have the potential to contribute to the country’s economy and society, especially those currently living and working in Canada on temporary Visas who are seeking to transition to permanent residence.

This is part of an immigration strategy that aims to address ongoing labour shortages, support economic growth and promote integration by providing temporary residents in Canada with easier pathways to permanent residence.

The Express Entry system, along with various immigration pathways like the Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program, and Post-Graduation Work Permit, continues to offer temporary residents a clear route to permanent residency in Canada. The government’s ongoing adjustments to its immigration policies reflect a growing recognition of the value that temporary residents bring to the Canadian economy and society.

For those currently living and working in Canada on temporary permits, the opportunities for transitioning to Permanent Residency are abundant. With a variety of pathways and increasing focus on Canadian experience, temporary residents are well-positioned to take the next step in their journey to becoming permanent residents of Canada.

If you’re a temporary resident in Canada and are considering applying for Permanent Residency, now is a great time to start planning your next steps. Keep an eye on the upcoming Express Entry draws and explore the various immigration programs available to you. With the right preparation and strategy, your dream of becoming a permanent resident of Canada could be within reach!

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the immediate suspension of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, effective as of November 8, 2024. This significant change means that students applying from countries currently eligible for the SDS will no longer be able to use this expedited processing stream for their study permit applications.

What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was launched in 2018 to provide faster and more streamlined processing for study permit applications for international students. The program was designed to help students from select countries—including China, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, and others—receive a faster decision on their study permit application. The SDS allowed eligible students to enjoy quicker processing times, often within 20 calendar days, provided they met certain criteria, such as language test results and evidence that they opened a Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $20,635 CAD.

This program was particularly popular among students aiming to pursue higher education in Canada, thanks to its faster processing time compared to the regular study permit application process

Why Has IRCC Suspended the SDS Program?

While the SDS program had been an attractive option for many students, the Canadian government made the decision to wind it down for several reasons. These include strengthening program integrity, addressing vulnerabilities in the system, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants, and enhancing the overall academic experience for international students in Canada.

By eliminating the program, Canada hopes to ensure that students are assessed fairly, based on their individual qualifications, and that all applicants are given the opportunity to succeed academically and contribute to Canada’s vibrant, multicultural society.

For international students, these changes signal a commitment to ensuring that the Canadian education system remains accessible and inclusive, while maintaining a high standard of immigration integrity.

Canada’s post-secondary education system offers a wide range of diploma programs that open doors to high-paying and rewarding careers. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, technology, business, or the trades, there are countless opportunities to secure a well-paying job and a successful future. Here’s a guide to the top high-paying diploma programs in Canada for 2025 that promise excellent career prospects.

1. Dental Hygiene

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $80,000 per year per year

Dental hygienists are in high demand across Canada. They work alongside dentists to provide preventative dental care, educate patients, and perform cleanings. With an aging population and a focus on oral health, this field continues to see growth and stability.

2. Paralegal Studies

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $65,000 per year

Paralegals assist lawyers with legal research, drafting documents, and client support. This is a great career for those interested in law without the lengthy commitment of becoming a lawyer. Paralegals are in demand in law firms, courts, and corporate legal departments.

3. Medical Laboratory Technology

Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $75,000 per year

Medical laboratory technologists are essential to diagnosing and treating illnesses. They collect, prepare, and analyze lab samples. With the growing healthcare needs in Canada, medical lab technology remains one of the most sought-after fields.

4. Pharmacy Technician

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $55,000 per year

Pharmacy technicians play an integral role in preparing and dispensing medications in hospitals and pharmacies. As the demand for healthcare services rises, pharmacy technicians will continue to find job security and good wages.

5. Respiratory Therapy

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $85,000 per year

Respiratory therapists treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. This profession is critical in hospitals, especially in critical care and emergency situations. The demand for respiratory therapists is expected to remain strong due to an aging population and growing healthcare needs.

6. Electrical Engineering Technician

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Electrical engineering technicians work alongside engineers to design, test, and implement electrical systems. With Canada’s expanding infrastructure and demand for renewable energy sources, electrical engineering remains a high-paying and stable career path.

7. Graphic Design

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $60,000 per year

Graphic designers use their creativity and technical skills to create visual content for digital media, advertising, and branding. The continued growth of digital marketing and the tech industry has led to a high demand for skilled graphic designers.

8. Civil Engineering Technology

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $80,000 per year

Civil engineering technologists support civil engineers in designing and managing construction projects. As infrastructure development continues to grow in Canada, there are many opportunities in this field for high-paying roles in public and private sector projects.

9. Web Development

Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $75,000 per year

Web developers are responsible for designing and coding websites. As businesses continue to prioritize their online presence, web development remains one of the most lucrative and in-demand fields in tech.

10. Network Engineering

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $85,000 per year

Network engineers design, implement, and maintain network infrastructure for organizations. With the rise of cloud computing, cybersecurity needs, and the expansion of digital businesses, network engineers are highly sought after.

11. Accounting and Payroll Administration

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $55,000 per year

Professionals in accounting and payroll administration manage financial records, pay processes, and ensure compliance with regulations. The demand for skilled accountants and payroll experts remains strong across industries, especially in Canada’s diverse economy.

12. Early Childhood Education

Average Salary: CAD $35,000 – $50,000 per year

Early childhood educators are responsible for the developmental care of children in daycare centers and schools. With a growing focus on early education and the increasing demand for childcare services, this field offers stable job opportunities.

13. Environmental Technology

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $65,000 per year

Environmental technologists work on projects related to sustainability, pollution control, and environmental protection. With Canada’s focus on green energy and environmental responsibility, this field is both rewarding and high-paying.

14. Digital Marketing

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Digital marketing professionals use SEO, social media, content creation, and paid advertising strategies to promote businesses online. As companies shift their focus to digital channels, there is a growing demand for digital marketers who can drive business growth.

15. Culinary Arts

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $60,000 per year

Chefs and culinary arts professionals prepare and create culinary masterpieces in restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. For those with a passion for food, this career offers opportunities for both high salaries and the potential to own a business.

16. Supply Chain and Logistics

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Supply chain managers oversee the production, storage, and distribution of goods. As e-commerce continues to grow, so does the demand for professionals who can manage logistics and supply chain operations efficiently.

17. Software Engineering Technician

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $85,000 per year

Software engineering technicians work on designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. This is a high-demand field due to the rapid advancement of technology, with opportunities in a wide range of industries from tech to healthcare.

18. Hospitality Management

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $60,000 per year

Hospitality managers oversee hotels, resorts, and restaurant operations. With Canada’s thriving tourism industry, hospitality management offers promising career prospects for those who excel in leadership, customer service, and business operations.

19. Business Administration

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $65,000 per year

A diploma in business administration opens up numerous career opportunities in various sectors, from finance to marketing. Business professionals are always in demand in both small businesses and large corporations.

20. Occupational Therapy Assistant

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Occupational therapy assistants work with patients to help them develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. As the population ages, the demand for occupational therapists and assistants is rising, making this a rewarding career path.

21. Cybersecurity

Average Salary: CAD $70,000 – $90,000 per year

Cybersecurity professionals protect organizations from data breaches, hacking, and cybercrime. As digital threats continue to evolve, cybersecurity experts are in high demand, with job opportunities across industries.

22. Event Management

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $55,000 per year

Event managers plan and coordinate events, ranging from corporate conferences to weddings. As Canada’s events and hospitality industries grow, event management remains a lucrative and dynamic career choice.

23. Mechanical Technician

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $70,000 per year

Mechanical technicians support the design, testing, and maintenance of mechanical equipment and machinery. With Canada’s thriving manufacturing and technology sectors, mechanical technicians are highly valued.

24. Aircraft Maintenance

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $80,000 per year

Aircraft maintenance technicians are responsible for ensuring that aircraft are safe and fully functional. As the aviation industry continues to grow in Canada, skilled technicians are essential for maintaining fleet operations and safety standards.

25. Social Service Worker

Average Salary: CAD $40,000 – $55,000 per year

Social service workers support individuals and families in need, helping them access services, counseling, and resources. With Canada’s commitment to social welfare and healthcare, social service workers are always in demand.

These 25 high-paying diploma programs in Canada offer a variety of career paths that promise growth, stability, and excellent earning potential in 2025. Whether you’re looking to enter the healthcare sector, explore technology and engineering, or pursue a creative field, there are diploma options that can set you on a successful career trajectory. By choosing the right program based on your interests and career goals, you can position yourself for a rewarding future in one of Canada’s most dynamic industries.

The demand for skilled professionals across all these fields ensures that you’ll have the opportunity to secure a well-paying job, contributing to Canada’s growing economy and diverse workforce.

Canada has become a top destination for international students seeking a high-quality education. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse culture, and outstanding academic institutions, it’s no wonder that Canada is a favored choice for students from around the world. Here are five compelling reasons why international students refer to Canada as their study destination.

High-Quality Education System

Canada is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges. Universities from Canada have a long history and reputation in terms of academic performance and high graduate employ-ability rate. Moreover, many of the Canadian higher educational institutions compete with leading and famous universities from the U.S. and the UK for instance.

Some of the top-ranked Canadian universities are:

• – University of Toronto (top 30 best universities in Canada in THE)
• – University of British Columbia (top 40 best universities in Canada in THE)
• – McGill University (top 50 best universities in Canada in THE)
• – University of Montreal (top 150 best universities in Canada in THE)
• – University of Alberta (top 150 best universities in Canada in THE)

The Canadian education system is known for its emphasis on research, innovation, and hands-on learning, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for successful careers.

Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity

Canada is celebrated for its multicultural environment, where people from various backgrounds coexist harmoniously. International students find a welcoming community, which helps them feel at home. This diversity enriches the student experience, allowing for the exchange of ideas and perspectives. Many Canadian institutions also have dedicated support services for international students, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Canadian immigration pathways for international students

Canada offers a variety of immigration pathways for international students, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to build a future in the country. After completing their studies, graduates can explore options such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) which have specialized streams for international students who’ve completed a study program in specific Canadian provinces. Depending on the immigration stream they choose, they may be eligible to apply for Permanent Residence soon after graduation or with 12 to 24 months of Canadian work experience. These pathways not only allow students to gain valuable work experience but also facilitate their transition to permanent residency.

Quality of life – Safe and peaceful

Quality of life is usually a factor of several aspects, such as quality of education, health care, employment, job security, environmental quality, and individual freedom. Canada consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. With low crime rates and a commitment to social welfare, international students can feel secure while pursuing their studies. The country’s political stability and health care system further contribute to a sense of safety and well-being, allowing students to focus on their education without undue worry.

Affordable Cost

Studying in Canada is often seen as a cost-effective choice for international students seeking high-quality education. Compared to many other popular study destinations, tuition fees in Canada are generally lower, while the country offers a robust educational system with world-renowned institutions. Additionally, the relatively affordable cost of living in many Canadian cities further enhances its appeal. With various scholarships and financial aid options available, international students can find ways to make their education in Canada even more accessible, ensuring a valuable investment in their future without overwhelming financial burdens.

With its combination of high-quality education, cultural diversity, immigration opportunities, safety, and affordable cost, Canada stands out as a premier destination for international students. As they embark on their academic journeys, students in Canada are not just gaining knowledge; they are also experiencing a rich, supportive environment that prepares them for a successful future.

In a recent report by Henley & Partners, Canada has proudly secured a position among the top 5 destinations for millionaire migrants in 2024. This country remains a very popular destination for wealthy immigrants — particularly those originally from Europe and Asia.
The Canadian millionaire population has increased by 29% in the last decade. This recognition highlights the country’s appeal to wealthy individuals seeking new opportunities with a favorable immigration policies, strong economy and high quality of life.

Favourable immigration policies

The Start-up Visa (SUV) program has played a key role in this trend by attracting entrepreneurial talent from around the world to Canada. Launched in 2013, the program provides a pathway to permanent residency for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas, providing them with access to Canadian venture capital and angel investor networks. The program is particularly attractive to millionaire immigrants, who contribute to Canada’s growing startup ecosystem.

Additionally, initiatives such as the Provincial Nominee Program or the Federal Skilled Worker Program are part of Canada’s broader immigration strategy to attract wealthy and skilled immigrants. The influx of millionaire immigrants is driving increased real estate investment in major cities such as Toronto and Vancouver and contributing to job creation and economic growth across a range of sectors.

These settlement patterns reflect Canada’s economic health, political stability and global competitiveness. Millionaires are drawn to Canada for personal financial security and the opportunity to invest and expand their businesses. Canada’s appeal is further enhanced by its strong economy, high standard of living and access to international markets, particularly through trade agreements with the United States.

High Quality of Life

Canada regularly ranks high in global quality of life indices, making it an attractive choice for wealthy individuals and their families. Cities such as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal offer a combination of urban convenience and natural beauty, low crime rates and a high standard of living. This combination ensures that newcomers can enjoy a prosperous and enriching lifestyle.

Moreover, for families considering settling in a new land, Canada’s education and healthcare systems are particularly strong draws. The country is home to many world-class universities and colleges, providing excellent educational opportunities for children. Additionally, Canada’s public health system ensures that all residents have access to essential health services, improving the quality of life for the entire family.

While Canada is in the top 5 destinations for millionaire migrants, it still faces competition from other countries such as Australia, Singapore, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Nevertheless, each country has its own advantages, but Canada’s combination of safety, open opportunities, and ease of integration makes it stand out in the global landscape. As noted in the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report, Canada’s position as a top destination for millionaire migrants is likely to grow stronger in the coming years. With its welcoming environment, strong economy, and high quality of life, Canada remains an attractive option for wealthy individuals looking for a new home. For those looking to invest in their future and enjoy a quality lifestyle, Canada is undoubtedly one of the top destinations in the global migration arena. 

On October 28, 2024, Prince Edward Island (PEI) conducted its latest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, inviting a total of 91 candidates to apply for Permanent Residence (PR). This draw highlights the province’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled workers and business investors to support its growing economy.

Details of the Draw

In this round, candidates from both the Business Work Permit Entrepreneur and Labour & Express Entry streams were included. This diverse approach ensures that PEI continues to attract individuals who can contribute to various sectors of the local economy, addressing labor shortages and enhancing the province’s overall growth.

Invitation Date	Stream	No. of Invitations	Minimum Score	Selection Attributes
October 28, 2024	Business Work Permit Entrepreneur	2	92	–
October 28, 2024	Labour & Express Entry	89	–	Invitations were issued to individuals currently working in PEI in the Healthcare, Construction, and Manufacturing sectors.

1. Business Work Permit Stream: This stream targets entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to establish or invest in a business in PEI. It aims to foster innovation and create jobs, playing a crucial role in the province’s economic landscape. Business candidates need to meet specific criteria, such as net worth and management experience.

2. Labour & Express Entry Stream: This stream is designed for skilled workers who are looking to settle in PEI permanently. It facilitates the immigration process for individuals with skills and experience that are in demand within the province. In each draw, candidates with high scores based on PEI’s points grid are invited to apply. Points consider factors like age, education, work experience, and adaptability.

The PEI EOI system gathers important information about you in order to rank and select those who are most likely to meet Prince Edward Island’s economic and labour market needs, based on one or more of the following attributes:

• Language: English or French;
• Education: level and field of education and where completed;
• Skill and work experience level;
• Strategic priorities: attributes that would address immediate labour market needs in PEI;
• Other factors relevant to employment prospects: including but not limited to having a job offer in PEI and/or previous Canadian work experience.

On October 23, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted another Express Entry draw, issuing a total of 1,800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) specifically for candidates in the Trade Occupations category. This draw highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled tradespeople to support its labor market needs.

Details of the Draw

• – Number of invitations issued: 1,800
• – Date and time of round: October 23, 2024
• – CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 433

If more than one candidate has the lowest score, the CRS score cut-off will be based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles.

Eligibility for Trade Occupations Category

Applicants aiming for the Express Entry trade occupations category must:

• – Accumulate at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent in part-time work) in one of the eligible trade occupations within the last five years, either in Canada or internationally.
• – Satisfy all the requirements specified for each round of invitations.

List of some trade occupations

Occupation	2021 NOC code
Residential and commercial installers and servicers	73200
Elevator constructors and mechanics	72406
Machine fitters	72405
Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics	72402
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics	72400
Carpenters	72310
Plumbers	72300
Electricians (except industrial and power system)	72200
Welders and related machine operators	72106
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers	72014

The October 23, 2024, Express Entry draw is a testament to Canada’s focus on skilled trades as a vital part of its immigration strategy. With 1,800 invitations issued and a CRS threshold of 433, this draw marks an encouraging opportunity for trade professionals looking to settle in Canada.

On October 21, 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a significant Express Entry draw, issuing invitations to 648 candidates for permanent residency. This draw specifically targeted Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates boast a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 791 or higher.

This means only those scoring at least 791 received an invitation in this round. The draw follows a similar trend from the October 7, 2024, PNP draw, which issued 1,613 invitations to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 743.

PNP candidates often have higher CRS scores, as a provincial nomination automatically grants an additional 600 points. Candidates may also receive points for having family in Canada or immigrating with a spouse or partner.

The recent draw highlights the IRCC’s ongoing commitment to attract skilled immigrants who are well-positioned to contribute to the Canadian economy.

By focusing on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, the IRCC aims to fill critical labor shortages across various provinces and support their specific economic needs.