IRCC announced new selection categories for Express Entry candidates
Introducing New Express Entry Categories: Filling Canada’s Job Market Needs
We are excited to announce the launch of category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates, as revealed by Canada’s Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser. This strategic move by the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to prioritize candidates who possess a strong French language proficiency or have work experience in high-demand fields. The selected categories include
- healthcare,
- science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM),
- trades such as carpenters, plumbers, contractors,
- transportation,
- agriculture and agri-food
A full list of eligible occupations under the new categories is available here.
By inviting more skilled workers in these targeted professions, Canada reinforces its commitment to welcoming in-demand professionals into communities nationwide. These new categories will not only address the labor shortage experienced by various employers across the country but also contribute to the growth and vitality of French-speaking minority communities outside of Quebec.
The draws under these categories are expected to commence later this summer.
Why the Need for New Express Entry Categories?
The introduction of these new categories stems from the pressing requirement to fill vacant positions throughout Canada. Immigration plays a crucial role in reducing the labor shortage and strengthening the prominence of the French language within French minority communities outside Quebec.
Sean Fraser highlights the feedback received from employers nationwide, expressing their chronic labor shortages. He states, “These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they have the skilled workers they need to grow and succeed. We can also grow our economy and help businesses with labor shortages while also increasing the number of French-proficient candidates to help ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities. Put simply, Canada’s immigration system has never been more responsive to the country’s social or economic needs.”
How were the Categories Chosen?
The selection of these categories followed legislative requirements that mandated the Minister’s involvement in public consultations with provinces, territories, industry representatives, unions, employers, workers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, immigration researchers, and practitioners.
Every year, the IRCC will report to Parliament on:
- The categories were chosen in the previous year.
- The reasons and methodologies behind the category selection.
- The instructions are established to implement each category.
- The number of invitations issued for each category.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry was established in 2015 to address Canada’s evolving economic and labor market needs. It serves as an application management system that oversees three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Workers Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
These programs utilize the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate candidates based on factors such as work experience, language ability, occupation, education, and more. Candidates with the highest overall CRS score are most likely to receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.
Canadapt Consulting is Here to Help
Canadapt Consulting has a proven track record of helping hundreds of Express Entry candidates successfully immigrate to Canada. If you want to ensure that your application process goes smoothly, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced immigration consultants is here to help you navigate the process and increase your chances of success.
Contact us today to learn more and get started on your journey to Canada.
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