IRCC Issues 500 ITAs to CEC Candidates in Latest Draw

After a PNP draw, the IRCC awarded 500 ITAs to candidates for the Canadian Experience Class in October. Find out the most recent CRS scores and Express Entry trends.



Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently held another Express Entry draw, offering 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates who meet the requirements for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This is a significant improvement. This is the week’s second Express Entry lottery, which is targeted at applicants with prior job experience in Canada.

Key Highlights:

  • Draw Overview:
    • Date: October
    • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
    • Total ITAs: 500
    • Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 539

Provincial Nominee Program Draw Earlier in the Week

In a draw held earlier this week, the IRCC also distributed 1,613 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 739, specifically targeting Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. This is in line with the trend of tailored draws to serve particular demographics, enabling IRCC to more effectively oversee its immigration objectives.

Recent CEC-Specific Draws and Trends

Before October, the last CEC-focused draw was held on September 19, inviting 4,000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 509. Compared to the August 27 draw, which had a minimum score of 507, this CRS score indicated a small increase.

The department’s goal of prioritizing “domestic” candidates and facilitating the transition of temporary residents into permanent residency has been strengthened by the IRCC’s emphasis on CEC draws this summer, which has led to 21,800 ITAs for CEC applicants since July. The IRCC plans to use this tactic in order to reach its yearly goals for the number of new permanent residents.

October Draw Patterns


October has already seen two Express Entry draws, indicating a strong start. For context, IRCC held four draws in October last year, issuing a total of 9,173 ITAs. If the pattern from last year continues, there may be additional draws in the coming weeks, with the potential for more targeted CEC and PNP invitations.