Express Entry
Express Entry: Canada Holds a First-Ever Category-Based Draw for Trades Occupations
In a significant move that will shape the future of Canadian Immigration, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held another targeted category-based Express Entry draw.
Canada in an effort to address specific skills shortages, introduced a first-ever category-based selection for trades occupations within the Express Entry system. Under the new Express Entry draw, IRCC on the 3rd of August has extended invitations to 1500 candidates in the trades. It includes professions such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding and will be helpful in attracting more construction workers to Canada. To qualify, candidates needed a score of 388 on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
The decrease in the CRS cut-off scores in the draws demonstrates Canada’s commitment to diverse talent and economic prosperity. In short, this encourages applicants to apply to help meet labor market demands.
Category-Based Selection for Trades Occupations
Canada introduced a category-based selection within the Express Entry system that specifically targeted trades occupations. Under the category-based selection, candidates with work experience in eligible trades occupations or work experience will have the chance to get invited to future Express Entry draws.
Tradespeople can improve their ITA prospects by optimizing their Express Entry profiles, meeting eligibility criteria, validating qualifications, obtaining certifications, and showcasing language proficiency. This streamlines immigration, making permanent residence in Canada more accessible.
Highlights of the Express Entry Rounds of Invitations – August & July
On Aug 1st, the all-program draw issued invitations to 2000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 517 to apply for permanent residence.
On August 2nd, 2023, a total of 800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 435. The previous targeted draw for the French category was held on July 12th which issued invitations to 3,800 candidates. A CRS score of 375 was the minimum and lowest score for any draw this year.
IRCC held an all-program express entry draw on July 11 which invited a total of 800 candidates. The minimum score required in the draw was 505.
On July 4, IRCC held an unexpected surprise all-program express entry draw which called up 700 candidates. The needed CRS score of 511 for the all-program draw was the highest to date in 2023. The results of the second draw of the week were announced on July 5, 2023. The draw invited 500 individuals with prior job experience in specific STEM fields. With a cut-off CRS score of 463, the third draw invited 1,500 applicants for a category-based selection to draw for healthcare professionals on July 6. Another category-based selection draw happened on July 7. IRCC sent invitations to 2,300 French-speaking candidates who had a CRS of at least 439.
Benefits of Immigrating through Express Entry
Express Entry is the most efficient pathway for skilled immigrants to gain permanent residence in Canada. The new category-based selection offers tailored opportunities for specific industries, meeting labor market needs. Successful candidates enjoy faster processing times, world-class healthcare, education, social benefits, and a path to Canadian citizenship.
Canada’s Commitment to Immigration
Canada’s all-program Express Entry invitations and the new category-based selection for trades occupations reaffirm its commitment to skilled immigration and economic growth. Prospective immigrants, especially skilled tradespeople, should explore the opportunities available in the welcoming and diverse country. Begin your journey to a brighter future in Canada today.
