Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have introduced a new and exciting opportunity for highly skilled individuals who desire to relocate to Canada. As of this summer, Express Entry will adopt an improved selection process that will utilize category-specific criteria during draws.

New Express Entry Categories

Canada’s immigration system, known as the Express Entry system, is currently experiencing substantial modifications. Moving forward, Express Entry will be introducing more focused selection rounds that could improve your chances of immigrating to Canada.

Recently, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new Express Entry draws based on different categories. The objective of these categories is to improve the selection process by allowing candidates to be chosen according to specific criteria that are in line with Canada’s labor market requirements.

The introduction of new selection categories has brought about a significant change in Express Entry. Previously, candidates were selected based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considered factors like age, education, work experience, and proficiency in English or French. However, with the addition of new criteria, such as work experience in high-demand occupations or proficiency in the French language, the selection process has been expanded.

The introduction of these additional categories aims to meet the specific skill requirements of Canada’s labor market. This targeted selection of candidates can significantly increase their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

The first category-based Express Entry draw is expected to take place this summer. These draws will focus on candidates who have:

• a strong French language proficiency; or
• work experience in the following fields:
• Healthcare
• science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
• trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
• Transport
• agriculture and agri-food

In the context of the five specific occupation categories, it is essential for all candidates to fulfill the following criteria:

1. Comply with all the requirements and instructions outlined for the particular draw/round.

2. Acquire a minimum of 6 months of uninterrupted work experience in a single eligible occupation, either in Canada or abroad, within the past 3 years, of the following professions:

• Residential and commercial installers and services – 73200
• Elevator construction and mechanics – 72406
• Machine fitters – 72405
• Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics – 72402
• Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics – 72400
• Carpenters – 72310
• Plumbers – 72300
• Electricians – 72200
• Welders and related machine operators – 72106
• Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and services – 72014

These requirements are crucial in order to guarantee that candidates have the required skills to effectively integrate into Canada’s job market and contribute positively to society as a whole. It is vital to be mindful of these requirements when applying through Express Entry and, if necessary, to work on enhancing language proficiency or gaining more work experience.

When will category-based rounds of invitations start? 

Category-based draws are expected to initiate during the summer season. Further details are likely to be released in the coming weeks.

What to expect about the changes to Express Entry draws?

Introducing the category-based approach is a crucial measure in enhancing the efficiency of the immigration process and ensuring that the labor market demands are in sync with candidate qualifications. Nevertheless, it is worth emphasizing that Express Entry continues to operate on a merit-based system, whereby individuals with pertinent skills and experiences are more likely to be chosen.

In various locations that I have visited, I have consistently been informed by employers throughout the country about the ongoing problem of labor shortages. The modifications made to the Express Entry system will guarantee that these employers have access to the skilled workers necessary for their growth and success. Additionally, this will contribute to the expansion of our economy and assist businesses in overcoming labor shortages. Furthermore, it will also increase the number of candidates proficient in French, which will help sustain French-speaking communities. In summary, according to Immigration Minister Sean Fraser’s media release, Canada’s immigration system is now more responsive than ever before to address both social and economic needs.

If you are considering moving to Canada but unsure about which program you may be eligible for, get in touch with the Millennium Ooverseas team for guidance on exploring the various options.