Canada continues to welcome skilled professionals through its Express Entry program, targeting various industries to fill key labor shortages. On October 23, 2024, Express Entry Draw #321 was conducted, focusing on candidates in trade occupations. This draw issued 1,800 invitations to apply (ITAs), with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 433. It marks another important step in Canada’s efforts to attract skilled trade workers to help drive economic growth.
Express Entry Draw #321 Highlights
The latest Express Entry draw was exclusively for trade professionals, making it the second trade-specific draw of 2024. Candidates with specialized skills under select National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes were invited. These draws provide a valuable opportunity for trade professionals to gain permanent residency, especially as CRS scores in category-based draws tend to be lower than general draws.
1,800 ITAs were issued specifically for trade occupations.
The minimum CRS score was 433, significantly lower than other program-specific draws in 2024.
Key sectors like construction, industrial mechanics, and electrical work were invited.
Notable NOC Codes in the Draw
Carpenters (NOC 72310)
Electricians (except industrial and power systems) (NOC 72200)
Elevator constructors and mechanics (NOC 72406)
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400)
Who Qualifies for the Trade Occupations Draw?
Eligibility for this draw required candidates to meet specific criteria set by the Canadian government. The main conditions included:
At least 6 months of continuous, full-time work experience in one of the designated trade occupations under the 2021 NOC system.
Work experience could have been obtained in Canada or abroad.
Candidates had to meet other requirements specified in the draw’s invitation round.
