The recent announcement by Canada’s Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, introduces category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates. The focus will be on candidates who demonstrate strong French language proficiency or possess work experience in specific fields such as healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transportation, agriculture, and agri-food.
The objective behind these category-based draws is to invite skilled workers in these targeted professions, which aligns with Canada’s commitment to welcoming in-demand professionals and supporting communities throughout the country. By prioritizing candidates with expertise in these fields, Canada aims to address labor shortages and ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities.
If you are interested in finding out if you’re eligible for the category-based draws, you can visit coi website or consult with an immigration professional for more information.
The motivation behind these new categories is to provide skilled workers that Canadian employers need to grow and succeed, while also supporting the vitality of French-speaking communities. The changes to the Express Entry system allow for a more responsive immigration system that aligns with Canada’s economic priorities.
The selection of these categories was done through a legislative process that involved public consultation with various stakeholders, including provinces and territories, industry representatives, unions, employers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, and immigration researchers and practitioners.
Express Entry is an application management system established in 2015 to address Canada’s economic and labor market needs. It comprises three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Workers Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors such as work experience, language ability, occupation, education, and more. Those with the highest CRS scores have a higher likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in Canada.