For Express Entry applicants, the IRCC and Minister of Immigration Sean Fraser have introduced upgraded selection categories. Moreover, Fraser has announced the start of category-based selection drawings for Express Entry.
Candidates with employment experience in any of these fields. As well as those who speak fluent French will receive special attention from IRCC.
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Healthcare
- Transport
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
It is the minister’s hope that IRCC will be empowered to send more invitations to qualified professionals in these specific fields to help Canada achieve its goal of attracting skilled workers across the board.
It is anticipated that the first draws for the new categories will begin later this summer.
Upgraded selection categories for Express Entry – What is the reason behind it?
Canada’s new categories are intended to fill openings in all provinces and territories. The French language outside of Quebec is viewed as highly valuable by communities of French descent because of the labor shortage and the role immigration plays in addressing it.
Moreover, according to Fraser, employers across the country are expressing their concerns about ongoing worker shortages. The introduction of new Express Entry categories aims to address these concerns by ensuring access to qualified workers needed for growth and success. Additionally, by prioritizing candidates with fluency in French. These modifications aim to support businesses facing labor shortages and promote the sustainability of French-speaking communities. Overall, Fraser emphasizes that the Canadian immigration system is more responsive than ever to the social and economic needs of the nation.
In June 2022, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act was amended to allow for category-based draws to begin. Furthermore, under the modified legislation, the Minister has the power to select immigrants according to important characteristics that support Canada’s economic interests.
Ways to choose the categories
In its annual report to Parliament, the IRCC will provide information on:
- Last year’s categories
- The reasons for and the process of selecting them
- Establishing a category according to these instructions
- Each category’s invitation numbers
Express Entry – An overview
The Express Entry program was launched in 2015 to address the shifting economic and labor demands of Canada. Using this application management system, three economic immigration programs are administered: the Federal Skilled Workers Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
Using the CRS, candidates receive scores based on human capital variables such as job experience, language proficiency, occupation, and education. A Permanent Residence Invitation would be sent to applicants with the highest total CRS score.
