Work in Canada
Truck Drivers are Now Eligible for Express Entry Under the Revised NOC System
This week, IRCC introduced the updated National Occupation Classification (NOC) system 2021. It is an updated version of Canada’s NOC system. The system will cause changes in eligibility for over 100+ immigration programs in Canada, including Express Entry.
In addition, 16 new occupations are added to the list of existing ones for Express Entry streams. And, due to considerable labour shortages within the sector, the truck driving occupation is one of them.
Shortage of Truck Drivers in Canada
Truck drivers are an important part of Canada’s supply chain. Thus, whenever there is a disruption to the supply chain or a labour shortage, truck drivers face a major impact on the economy of Canada. Several factors have contributed to the industry’s severe shortage of skilled workers, including the COVID-19 pandemic and high retirement rates. Additionally, there were 18,000 vacant job positions in the sector during the second quarter of 2021. Moreover, according to the Forest Products Association of Canada, the truck driver shortage cost the industry approximately $450 million each year before the pandemic.
Immigrating to Canada Via Express Entry
Canada’s Express Entry immigration program is one of the fastest options for newcomers. The system uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate the profiles of the candidates. High-scoring candidates shall receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). The system manages three Canadian immigration programs: Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
CEC is one of the most successful pathways for immigrants living and working in Canada. To qualify for permanent residency, the candidates;
- Must have a minimum experience of one year in the past 3-year record
- A CLB of 7 for the jobs placed under National Occupational Classification (NOC) A, and
- A CLB of 5 for the jobs falling under the NOC B category.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The program is an immigration route for applicants who have never worked or studied in Canada. To qualify under this program, the candidates
- must have regular experience as a skilled worker for a year
- a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in either English or French
- at least one education qualification.
- Proof of funds
- must have scored at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSWP scorecard.
Express Entry Application Process
The following steps will help you understand the immigration process in a better way!
- Check your Eligibility
- Take a language assessment
- Create an Express Entry Profile
- Gather your Documents
- Apply for PR online
- Pay the Processing fees
After applying, the candidate’s application will be reviewed by the IRCC officer. If it gets approved, the candidate will receive an invitation to apply (ITA)
Express Entry in 2023: NOC affect
In 2023, Express Entry will shift from focusing on CRS scores and instead conduct draws that permit Canada to welcome immigrants to boost labour market requirements and need.
The 2016 NOC system required Express Entry candidates to have work experience classified in NOC skill types 0, A, or B. However, the new system distinguishes IRCC’s occupations into TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities).
