Express Entry aims to create a center of attention of skilled workers best suited to fill gaps in Canada’s workforce, including French-speaking immigrants from outside of Quebec, by responding to labor market needs.

Canada plans to welcome 55,900 permanent residents through Express Entry in 2022, and by the end of 2024, that number will increase significantly to 111,500.

By inviting candidates through Express Entry, IRCC can process applications more efficiently because candidates already meet the basic eligibility requirements based on their CRS scores.

Now that the drawings have been restored, IRCC aims to set a six-month processing standard for new applications.

However, IRCC is considering an Express Entry draw in the future, targeting specific skills and professions rather than relying solely on CRS scores.

Immigration Minister Sean Fraser told CIC News in June that this would allow Canada to select more immigrants who are already equipped to succeed in the labour market.

“The goal is really to maximize the contribution that a newcomer can make in their communities, so they’re set up for success when they arrive, but also that they’re going to meet the needs of the community where they’re going to reside,” said Fraser. “I expect we’re going to see potential increase of retention rates have opened up because people are enter where they know they have opportunities because that was the basis of their invitation to apply.”