IRCC conducts first Express Entry draw of 2024.

Jan 11, 2024 / 2 min readspscanadaahd

IRCC Holds First Express Entry Draw of 2024

Canada has officially started its 2024 immigration journey. Ontario stepped forward with the first major action of the year. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 1,451 invitations in its first draw of 2024.
This demonstrates the province’s strong commitment to welcoming skilled workers who can support Ontario’s growing labour market.

The invitations were issued through two separate rounds under the Foreign Worker Stream, each targeting specific in-demand occupations.

Breakdown of the OINP Draws – January 9, 2024

First Round: Skilled Trades (630 Invitations)

In the first round, Ontario invited 630 candidates with a minimum score of 33.
This round focused on 63 skilled trade occupations, including:

  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologists
  • NOC 22302 – Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians
  • NOC 22312 – Industrial instrument technicians
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers

This wide range of occupations reflects Ontario’s strong demand for technical and trade-based expertise.

Second Round: Healthcare + Tech (821 Invitations)

On the same day, the province held another draw.
This round invited 821 candidates with a minimum score of 40.
It highlighted 41 healthcare occupations, including:

  • NOC 30010 – Managers in healthcare
  • NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
  • NOC 31110 – Dentists
  • NOC 31111 – Optometrists

Additionally, the draw targeted 15 tech occupations, such as:

  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21211 – Data scientists
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business systems analysts
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists

These selections show Ontario’s continued focus on healthcare, technology, and labour shortages across priority sectors.

Lower Scores Improve Applicant Opportunities

Compared to previous draws, the CRS-like scores were slightly lower.
Therefore, a broader range of candidates may now have a better chance of securing an invitation in 2024.
This move signals Ontario’s effort to welcome more skilled workers who are ready to support the province’s evolving labour market needs.

Eligibility for the OINP Foreign Worker Stream

To qualify under this stream, applicants must meet several conditions.
Most importantly, they must:

  • Have a permanent, full-time job offer in NOC TEER 1, 2, or 3
  • Meet Ontario’s median wage requirements
  • Show the job offer is essential to the employer
  • Match or exceed their current wage, if already employed in the same role

In addition, applicants need:

  • Two years of relevant experience in the last five years
  • Any mandatory licensing required for the position
  • A valid work, study, or visitor permit, or they must live abroad
  • A clear intention to settle in Ontario

As a result, Ontario can ensure that selected candidates are ready to contribute to the province immediately.

Recent OINP Activity in 2024

During the first week of January, Ontario conducted two OINP draws, inviting 1,451 candidates in total.
This active start signals Ontario’s strong focus on expanding its skilled workforce.
Furthermore, the province is positioning itself as one of the best destinations for newcomers seeking long-term opportunities in Canada.
On the other hand, competition remains high, which makes staying updated with program changes extremely important.

Get in touch with SPS Canada

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com

(Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1)905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

 

 

 

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