IMPACT – MEDIUM

Canada conducted its 15th Express Entry draw of the year Wednesday, issuing 3,750 invitations to apply for permanent residency.

Canada issued the same number of invitations in its past three draws. The lowest qualifying Comprehensive Ranking System score, 441, was also consistent with past draws and was one of the lowest cutoff points so far this year.

Express Entry Draws in 2018:

Date Invitations Minimum Score
Jan.10, 2018 2,750 446
Jan. 24, 2018 2,750 444
Feb. 7, 2018 3,000 442
Feb. 21, 2018 3,000 442
March 14, 2018 3,000 456
March 26, 2018 3,000 446
April 11, 2018 3,500 444
April 25, 2018 3,500 441
May 9, 2018 3,500 441
May 23, 2018 3,500 440
May 30, 2018 700* (500 Federal Skilled Trades; 200 Provincial Nominees) 288 (Federal Skilled Trades); 902 (Provincial Nominees)
June 13 3,750 451
June 25 3,750 442
July 11 3,750 442
July 25 3,750 441

*Draw limited to two programs

BAL Analysis: The high number of invitations and low qualifying scores are good news for Express Entry candidates. Canada continues to issue invitations for permanent residency at a rate outpacing previous years and consistent with its projections to accept about 1 million new immigrants over the next three years. Those who receive invitations to apply are reminded that Canada recently shortened the length of time that successful candidates have to apply, from 90 to 60 days.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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