On April 11, the first 2024 Express Entry draw, focused on 24 STEM occupations, issued 4,500 invitations to apply for permanent residency.

The first Express Entry draw of 2024, numbered 293, has significantly advanced opportunities for STEM field candidates. Focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics occupations, this draw offers a promising beginning to the year for skilled professionals aiming to settle in Canada.

After a four-month wait, the latest STEM-targeted round of invitations has raised the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to 491. This is an increase from the score required in the previous STEM-specific draw. This reflects a more competitive landscape for candidates in this round.

How Is This Draw Different?

This latest draw, exclusively focusing on STEM occupations, marks a significant shift from earlier ones. In the most recent STEM-specific draw of 2024, 4,500 ITAs were issued, a decrease from 5,900 in the last draw on December 8, 2023. The required CRS score has also increased by 10 points to 491, reflecting a more selective process.

Even a modest increase of 10 points in the CRS score can significantly enhance a candidate’s likelihood of being selected. This targeted approach underscores the growing value placed on STEM fields to drive innovation and economic growth, aiming to attract leading global talent to bolster Canada’s tech and science sectors.

About STEM Categories

This draw selected candidates from specific NOC codes related to STEM occupations, including positions like Engineering Managers and Computer Systems Developers. This highlights the variety and dynamism within STEM fields.

Pathways to Permanent Residency:

To secure permanent residency through the Express Entry system, candidates must meet several eligibility criteria, including age, work experience, education, occupation, and language proficiency. In the STEM category, it’s essential to have a minimum of six months of continuous full-time work experience in a relevant field within the past three years, whether in Canada or internationally. Candidates must fulfill this criterial to enhance their prospects of success in the application process.

As a Top Immigration Consultant in Edmonton, Choice Immigration Services is here to guide you through the Express Entry process. We’re here to ensure that you fully understand and meet all necessary criteria, improving your chances of securing permanent residency in Canada.

The Express Entry Process

Here’s a simplified guide to applying through the Express Entry system:

1. Get Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA): Verify that your educational credentials are equivalent to Canadian standards.

2. Demonstrate English Language Proficiency: Prove your proficiency in English with recognized language tests.

3. Set Up Your Express Entry Profile: Create a profile detailing your skills, work experience, and other relevant information.

4. Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet the criteria for one of the Express Entry programs.

5. Receive an ITA: If selected, you will get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

6. Apply for the Visa: After receiving an ITA, complete the application for your visa and prepare to move to Canada.

The Express Entry process can be challenging, but Choice Immigration Services simplifies it for you. As Leading Immigration Consultants in Edmonton, we offer expert guidance from evaluating your educational qualifications to submitting your visa application. Our expertise helps you clearly understand all requirements and significantly increases your likelihood of success.