On May 31, 2023, former Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Hon. Sean Fraser announced that IRCC finalized categories for category-based selection. The categories were expected based on BILL C-19 which received the royal assent in Canada’s parliament in June and became a law. This law grants the minister of immigration full authority to invite economic immigration candidates who will support Canada’s economy and to promote the French language.
Under this law, IRCC can invite candidates based on specific attributes, such as language or work experience, rather than focusing on an overall CRS score.
The categories are as follows :
- Strong French-language proficiency
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
- Trades, such as Carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Agriculture and agri-food
On August 1st , 2023, new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Hon. Marc Miller, announced the first trades round for category-based selection will open this week. This will focus on candidates with trades expertise-including carpentry, plumbing, and welding-will help Canada’s construction sector attract the skilled talent it needs across the country.
This strategy aims to attract top global talent and will help meet the need for tradespeople to support the economy. These category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, alongside general invitation rounds, and IRCC will provide more details in the coming weeks.
On August 3, 2023, IRCC issued 1,500 invitations with a CRS score of 388 to candidates with trade occupations.
Having obtained the required work experience does not guarantee permanent residence. Candidates under the above-mentioned categories must meet the eligibility criteria for an Express Entry program. It is also not a guarantee to receive an invitation to apply. Please note that candidates will still be ranked against one another, thus it is advantageous to have a high CRS score.
Based on IRCC’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2023 to 2025, they plan to admit 82,880 new permanent residents to Canada through Express Entry by the end of 2023.
According to IRCC, Canada’s Express Entry system is now tailored to provide a streamlined and efficient pathway for individuals with expertise in critical fields. By prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with experience in the trades, Canada aims to meet the increasing demand for talent and fill key positions that contribute to the country’s economic growth and advancement.
If you have questions regarding the above article, you may contact Marjorie at [email protected]
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
A word of caution: You should not act or rely on the information provided in this column. It is not a legal advice. To ensure your interests are protected, retain, or formally seek advice from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in good standing of CICC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of RCIC’s.
