Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued invitations to apply (ITAs) in the latest Express Entry draw. The department invited 1,325 candidates to apply in an all-program draw. Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 542 to qualify for an ITA.
This draw follows the most recent results from December 8, in which 5,900 candidates received ITAs with a minimum CRS of 481 in a category-based selection draw for candidates in STEM occupations.
December 7th additionally saw a category-based draw for individuals with French language proficiency, inviting 1,000 candidates from the Express Entry pool with a minimum CRS of 470.
Canada Express Entry Draw December 18, 2023 Results:
- Express Entry Round: #275
- Draw Type: All-Program
- Draw Date: December 18, 2023
- CRS Cut-off Score: 542
- No. of invitations: 1,325
The Latest Express Entry Pool Breakdown
As of December 17, 2023, the Express Entry Pool comprises 208,638 candidates. These candidates are from the three federal immigration programs under the Express Entry system.

Overview of Recent Express Entry Results
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an application management system that oversees three prominent economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Express Entry uses the Comprehensive Ranking System to evaluate candidates based on their human capital factors and then assigns a score. Human capital factors include work experience, language ability, education, age and occupation.
The Provincial Nominee Program offers a significant advantage in Express Entry draws by awarding an additional 600 CRS points to the candidates who obtain a provincial nomination.
Category-Based Express Entry
Last May, IRCC announced the introduction of category-based selection rounds of invitations for Express Entry candidates. Through these new rounds, IRCC targets candidates with a specific, in-demand attribute that the immigration minister believes will help strengthen Canada’s workforce and economy.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Healthcare | Candidates with experience in healthcare occupations |
STEM professions | Candidates with experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics |
Trades | Candidates with experience in trade occupations |
Transport | Candidates with experience in transport occupations |
Agriculture and agri-food | Candidates with experience in agriculture and agri-food occupations |
Learn more: Targeted Express Entry 2023

Ready to Apply for Express Entry?
Book a ConsultationHow to Increase Your CRS Score?
Looking to boost your CRS score and secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency? Here are some alternative strategies that could help you achieve your immigration goals:
1. Targeted Express Entry
Lower CRS scores can still lead to success. Consider applying via the Targeted Express Entry pathway and seek expert immigration advice for eligibility and support.
Read more: Targeted Express Entry 2023 Guide
2. PNP Immigration
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) could be your ticket to a higher CRS score. Find a program that aligns with your skills and qualifications.
Read more: PNP vs. Express Entry: Which is Better for You?
3. LMIA-Based Job
A job offer from a Canadian employer with LMIA support can boost your CRS score by providing valuable work experience.
Learn more: How to get a job offer from outside Canada?
4. Study Permit and PGWP in Canada
You can gain work experience through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program by obtaining a Canadian Study Permit Visa. This could lead to permanent residency via the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Also read: Canada Study Visa After 5 to 25 Years Gap
5. Visitor Visa to Work Permit
Use your visitor visa as a stepping stone. Secure employment with a Canadian company or leverage personal connections to obtain a work permit.
Also read: Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada
6. French Language
Proficiency in French can earn you up to 50 additional CRS points. Fluency in French not only benefits you in Targeted Express Entry Draws but also opens up more permanent residency opportunities for Francophone immigrants.

Ready to Apply for Express Entry?
Quick ConsultationNeed Help?
Consider consulting Mr. Keshav Sharma, a highly experienced Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, for immigration assistance. He specializes in Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) immigration.
Take the first step towards transforming your aspiration of living and working in Canada into a reality by contacting us here or scheduling a consultation with us today.
For a limited time, eligible candidates within Targeted Express Entry can take advantage of our comprehensive services, starting at just CAD $999.