IRCC introduced new Express Entry’s category-based selection for candidates.
Almost a full year after a bill was passed, the immigration minister was empowered to invite Express Entry candidates who possess characteristics that will help Canada pursue its economic goals. While targeted draws were widely expected to begin this year, no formal characteristics have yet been identified as selection criteria by the IRCC.
In light of the recent update to Express Entry, here are some of the most important questions candidates may have.
Almost a full year after a bill was passed, the immigration minister was empowered to invite Express Entry candidates who possess characteristics that will help Canada pursue its economic goals. While targeted draws were widely expected to begin this year. No formal characteristics have yet been identified as selection criteria by the IRCC.
In light of the recent update to Express Entry, here are some of the most important questions candidates may have.
Express Entry’s category-based selection – Who is qualified?
In addition to the existing categories for Express Entry, new categories will be added for candidates with experience in the following industries:
- Agriculture and agri-food,
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Having strong reading, writing, listening, speaking, and listening comprehension of French (NCLC 7)
- Transport
- Healthcare
What is the start date of the targeted draws?
A specific date for the additional categories has not yet been set, but they will begin later this summer.
Is having an Express Entry profile still a requirement for selection if I am employed in one of the eligible occupations?
Yes. To apply for an Express Entry managed program, applicants must still meet the qualifying requirements. There are three Federal Skilled Worker Programmes available: the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Will the CRS no longer be considered in the Express Entry process?
Candidates’ CRS scores will still be considered in Express Entry drawings. As with previous drawings, the IRCC will select applicants without considering any of the six categories. Draws for general and program-specific prizes may be affected by this.
As part of Express Entry, candidates who meet the category requirements will be ranked based on the IRCC’s guidelines. Also, the top applicants will be invited to submit permanent residence applications.
Do the criteria vary across each of the new categories?
Candidates must meet the following requirements in each of the five occupation-specific categories:
- Within the past 3 years, you must have steadily worked in a single occupation listed as eligible for at least 6 months.
- Ensure that you meet all requirements outlined in the instructions.
French-language test results showing a minimum score of 7 across the four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) on the Canadian Language Skill Levels are required for candidates invited based on strong French language proficiency. For that round, all requirements must be met.
Will Express Entry draws continue to include candidates from PNP?
Candidate nominations received from provincial or territorial governments will continue to be invited through general and provincial nominating rounds, the IRCC said. Individuals who have shown they possess the skills, education, and experience that will enhance the province or territory’s economy have been identified by the agency.
What is the reason for the new categories?
French is one of the country’s official languages, so the minister of immigration has the role of supporting Canada’s economic objectives. As well as encouraging the expansion of French-speaking communities outside of Quebec.
A large number of open positions will be filled through the new categories across Canada. By encouraging targeted immigration, employment shortages in a variety of sectors could be alleviated. And French speakers outside of Quebec would also be able to increase their numbers.
Canada will be able to attract in-demand people to its towns if it accepts more qualified workers in these professions, according to Minister Fraser.
By what process did IRCC determine the new categories for Express Entry?
A number of stakeholders, including provinces and territories, business leaders, labor unions, employers, employees, worker advocacy organizations, settlement service providers, immigration researchers, and practitioners, were involved in determining the categories, according to the IRCC.
Are the categories going to change?
As part of the IRCC’s annual report to parliament, categories can change every year.
- Last year’s categories
- The reasons and methods for choosing them
- Establishing a category according to these instructions
- Each category’s invitation numbers
In the Express Entry Year-End Report, IRCC also says category-based selection information will be included.
