Minimum score remains level in latest Express Entry draw

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Canada has conducted its ninth Express Entry draw of 2016, issuing 1,018 invitations to apply.

What does the change mean? The lowest qualifying score was 468, a slight drop from the minimum score in the last two draws. This indicates that the minimum score to qualify for an invitation to apply for permanent residency has risen from earlier in the year, but remains low.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Permanent residency through Express Entry.
• Who is affected: Canadian companies sponsoring foreign nationals through one of four skilled migration programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
• Business impact: The minimum qualifying score was less than 600, indicating that some candidates were issued invitations to apply without having an LMIA-supported job offer or provincial nomination.

Background: In 2015, Canada issued 31,063 invitations to apply through Express Entry, and officials have projected a greater number for 2016. So far this year, Canada has issued 11,437 invitations to apply:

BAL Analysis: Despite the increases in the minimum qualifying score in recent drawings, the minimum score remains in the low range and below 600. The number of invitations issued per draw has also decreased since February.

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

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