Express Entry Draws in Canada: CRS Scores & Results

Within the Express Entry system, draws follow a ranking and invitation process based on candidates already in the Express Entry pool.

1. Candidates enter the pool

Candidates who meet the requirements of at least one Express Entry program and submit an eligible profile are placed in the Express Entry pool. They receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the CRS points awarded for factors in their profile and are ranked against other eligible candidates.

2. IRCC holds a round of invitations

For each round, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets the draw instructions, including the date and time of the round, the number of candidates to invite, the type of round, and any program or category requirements that apply.

3. Invitations are issued

The highest-ranking eligible candidates included in that round receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.

The CRS score of the lowest-ranked candidate invited becomes the cut-off score for that round. Because different rounds may target different groups and issue different numbers of invitations, CRS cut-offs can vary.

4. Tie-breaking may apply

If multiple candidates have the CRS score at the cut-off, IRCC uses a tie-breaking rule based on the date and time their Express Entry profiles were submitted. Candidates who submitted earlier may be invited ahead of others with the same CRS score.

Applicants who receive an ITA can then continue with the Express Entry application process and prepare the supporting documents required for their permanent residence application. Some applicants already working in Canada may also qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) while their permanent residence application is being processed, if they meet the applicable requirements.