A day after targeting French-speaking candidates, IRCC published the results of a Canadian Experience Class (CEC)–only draw held on July 21 but released publicly on July 22. Two thousand applicants with Comprehensive Ranking System scores of 516 or higher received Invitations to Apply. The CEC stream is reserved for foreign workers who already have at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience. The department had not run a CEC-specific round since December 2024, opting instead for multi-program and category-based draws. HR managers welcome the return, noting that CEC candidates integrate faster because most already hold open work permits. However, the relatively high CRS cut-off suggests intensified competition; the average CRS for CEC draws in 2024 was 491. Employers should therefore review internal referral programs to ensure staff update Express Entry profiles with any new language or education credentials, boosting scores ahead of future rounds. Immigration advisers also point out that CEC applicants must still pass medical and security screening—areas now experiencing longer wait times due to IRCC’s digital platform rollout. Planning for status extensions (for example, through Bridging Open Work Permits) remains critical to avoid gaps in work authorization. Provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario are expected to match the federal move with additional invitation rounds for international graduates, providing multiple pathways for talent already in Canada.
Source: Immigration.ca
