If you're considering immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry programs, you're probably wondering, "When's the next draw?" It's a common question, but unfortunately, the answer isn't quite that simple. The Canadian government does not publish an official draw schedule, which makes it difficult to predict exactly when the next draw will take place.
Does this mean it's impossible to anticipate future invitations to apply for permanent residency? Not quite! In this article, we'll take a look at past trends, the factors influencing draws and some strategies for increasing your chances of being invited.
How do Entrée Express prints work?
The Express Entry system is a points-based selection system that manages permanent residence applications for three programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Each candidate receives a score, which takes into account criteria such as age, professional experience, level of education and language skills.
How often are prints made?
Visit Express Entry draws are usually held every two weeks, but this can vary. Some months there are several draws, while other periods have longer pauses.
What are the decisive criteria?
The point threshold required to receive an invitation varies from draw to draw. It depends on several factors, including :
- The number of candidates in the basin
- Canada's economic needs
- Current immigration policies
Can we predict the date of the next draw?
No, the Canadian government does not publish the dates of Express Entry draws in advance. There is no official calendar indicating when the draws will take place, but certain trends can help us make approximate forecasts. By analyzing past trends, we can roughly estimate the frequency and criteria of future draws. But estimates may not coincide with reality.
Analysis of past trends
Looking at the print run history of recent years, we can see that :
- Most draws take place mid-week
- They occur approximately every two weeks
- There are occasional pauses at the end of the year (December-January).
Indicators to watch
Even if the Canadian government doesn't reveal its plans, certain signals may indicate that a draw is approaching:
- A growing number of candidates in the basin
- Official immigration announcements (e.g. new immigration policies or targets)
- Evolution of minimum scores
The impact of immigration policies on print runs
The number and frequency of draws also depend on Canada's political decisions.
Annual immigration quotas
Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets immigration targets. If the government wishes to welcome more skilled workers in general, or in a specific category or program, the number of invitations can be increased.
New selection strategies
Recently, Canada has introduced specific draws for certain professions (e.g. healthcare, technology). If your field is in high demand, you could be invited even with a lower score.
What to do until the next draw?
Rather than waiting and doing nothing, you can take action to maximize your chances of being selected.
Improve your SCG score
Some strategies to increase your score:
- Re-take language tests (IELTS, TEF) to obtain a higher score
- Obtain a validated job offer in Canada
- Gain more skilled work experience
- Continue your studies to obtain an additional diploma
Preparing in advance
If you receive an invitation, you will have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence. Make sure you have already :
- Your diplomas assessed by a recognized organization (EDE)
- Your valid language test results
- Proof of work experience ready...
Should I consider other options in parallel?
While Express Entry is an excellent way to immigrate to Canada, it is not the only route to permanent residency.
Provincial programs (PCP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) enable Canadian provinces to invite candidates who match their specific needs. Some provinces organize independent draws, sometimes with lower point thresholds than Express Entry.
For example:
- Ontario often selects candidates in the fields of technology and finance.
- Manitoba and Saskatchewan favor workers with family or professional ties in the province.
- British Columbia and Alberta have specific components for in-demand trades.
Receiving a provincial nomination can add 600 points to your Express Entry score, which almost guarantees an invitation to the next Express Entry draw.
Other federal and provincial programs
In addition to Entrée Express and PCP, other options are available:
- The Atlantic Canada Immigration Program (for those wishing to immigrate and work in one of Canada's Atlantic provinces).
- The Self-Employed Program (for artists, athletes and cultural workers). This program is currently paused, from April 30, 2024 until January 2027.
- The Rural Immigration Pilot Program (for those who want to settle in small Canadian towns outside Quebec designated for this program).
- The Pilot Program for Immigration to Francophone Minority Communities (for those wishing to settle in a Francophone community designated by this program and outside Quebec).
These alternatives often offer different requirements and can be a solution if your SCG score is too low.
Why use an immigration consultant?
Navigating the Express Entry system can sometimes be complex and stressful. Using a regulated Canadian immigration consultant can increase your chances of success and avoid costly mistakes.
Expertise that makes all the difference
An immigration consultant can help you :
- Assess your chances and steer you towards the right program.
- Improve your record (strategies to increase your score, tips on proof of work, etc.).
- Avoid common mistakes that could lead to refusals or delays in processing.
Personalized support
Each candidate's situation is unique. A consultant will guide you according to your profile and help you to :
- Identify provincial appointment opportunities.
- Prepare your documents correctly to avoid rejection.
- Keep abreast of trends and be ready as soon as a print run is announced.
Conclusion
Can you predict the date of the next Entrée Express draw with any certainty? No. But by analyzing past trends and being strategically prepared, you can anticipate and maximize your chances of being selected.
Rather than waiting passively, use this time to :
- Improve your SCG score
- Explore other options such as PCP
- Prepare your documents in advance
- Consult an immigration expert for effective support
Immigration to Canada is an important life project, and every detail counts. Need help optimizing your chances? Contact our regulated Canadian immigration consultant today!
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