Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially announced the resumption of Express Entry draws this week after a month-long hiatus.
The most recent Express Entry draw occurred over a month ago, on August 15. This draw encompassed all programs and extended invitations to 4,300 candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 496. In an all-program draw, candidates within the Express Entry pool meeting the minimum CRS score are considered for an invitation.
In a statement released on September 18, the department confirmed that invitations would soon be extended to Express Entry candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for the newly introduced category-based selection for transportation occupations.
Category-based selection
But what exactly is category-based selection? On June 22, 2022, the Canadian government amended the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) to permit the selection of immigrants based on specific attributes that align with the country’s economic priorities.
On May 31, IRCC introduced six new categories for Express Entry candidates. These categories include candidates proficient in the French language and five categories addressing high-demand employment sectors that currently face shortages in skilled labor:
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
Since introducing these new categories, there have been two draws for healthcare occupations, one for STEM occupations, three for French-speaking candidates, and one for skilled trades. Through these draws, a total of 10,900 candidates have received invitations via category-based selection in 2023.
IRCC asserts that category-based selection will enable Canada to attract top global talent and meet the demand for transportation workers vital to supporting the economy. According to a recent report in the Globe and Mail, transport occupations are estimated to account for one to two percent of each Express Entry category-based selection draw.
This category encompasses commercial truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers.
IRCC emphasizes that filling these positions will contribute to the advancement of Canada’s economy. Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated, “As Canada expands its economy, we are committed to enhancing transportation and infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and passengers across the country. Category-based selection enables us to invite newcomers with expertise in transportation occupations to address significant labor shortages and secure the future success of the Canadian transport sector.”
Conclusion
The resumption of Express Entry draws by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) marks a significant step in Canada’s immigration system, particularly with the introduction of category-based selection. This innovative approach aligns immigration policies with the country’s economic priorities, addressing labor shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, STEM professions, skilled trades, transportation, and agriculture.
The commitment of IRCC to welcoming top global talent and filling crucial positions in the Canadian workforce is evident. As Canada strives to grow its economy and improve its transport infrastructure, including transportation occupations in category-based selection draws is a strategic move that will contribute to its economic success.
Get a free Express Entry assessment by contacting us!
