Express Entry Category-Based Selection: Your FAQs Answered

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently introduced a new category-based selection process for candidates in the Express Entry managed programs. This development aims to support Canada’s economic goals and address labor shortages in specific industries. In this blog post, we will address some of the most common questions regarding the new selection categories and provide valuable information to Express Entry candidates.

Eligibility Criteria for Category-Based Selection

Under the new draw categories, Express Entry candidates will be eligible if they have work experience in the following fields:

1. Healthcare
2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions
3. Trades (such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors)
4. Transport
5. Agriculture and agri-food
6. Strong French language proficiency (at least NCLC 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking)

Commencement of Targeted Draws

While the exact date is yet to be announced, the targeted draws under the new categories are expected to begin later this summer.

Express Entry Profile Requirement

Candidates working in eligible occupations must still have an active Express Entry profile and meet the eligibility criteria for an Express Entry-managed program. The eligible programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Role of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score will continue to play a significant role in Express Entry draws. IRCC will still conduct draws where candidates are invited without reference to the new categories, including all-program draws or program-specific draws.

Criteria Variation in Each Category

In the five occupation-specific categories, all candidates must have accumulated at least 6 months of continuous work experience (in Canada or abroad) within the past 3 years in a single eligible occupation. Additionally, candidates invited based on strong French language proficiency must meet specific language requirements.

Express Entry Draws for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidates

IRCC will continue to invite candidates with a provincial or territorial nomination through general and PNP-specific rounds. These candidates have demonstrated their skills, education, and work experience that contribute to the economy of the respective province or territory.

Purpose of the New Categories

The introduction of new categories aligns with the immigration minister‘s mandate to support Canada’s economic goals and promote the growth of French-speaking communities outside of Quebec, thereby safeguarding French as one of Canada’s official languages. The targeted categories aim to fill numerous vacant positions across Canada, addressing labor shortages in various industries and boosting the number of French speakers in minority communities.

Decision-Making Process for the Categories

IRCC consulted with several stakeholders, including provinces and territories, industry members, unions, employers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, and immigration researchers and practitioners. These mandatory discussions and public consultations led to the selection of the current categories.

Possibility of Category Changes

The categories may change on a yearly basis, as indicated in the IRCC report to parliament. The report will include details such as the previous year’s categories, the reasons and methodology behind their selection, instructions to establish a category, and the number of invitations issued for each category. The Express Entry Year-End Report will offer comprehensive information on category-based selection.

The introduction of category-based selection in the Express Entry system marks an important development for candidates seeking immigration opportunities in Canada. By aligning with Canada’s economic goals and addressing specific industry needs, this new approach aims to streamline the immigration process and contribute to the growth of various sectors. As an Express Entry candidate, understanding the eligibility criteria and keeping up-to-date with the latest changes will help you navigate the immigration journey effectively. Stay informed, maintain an active Express Entry profile, and strive to enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for increased opportunities.

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