Canada Introduces New Selection Process for Express Entry Trades Candidates Based on Categories
Canada is taking steps to attract more qualified professionals to the country through its Express Entry program. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently introduced a new selection process for trades candidates based on categories. This move aims to address specific labor market needs in Canada and ensure that skilled workers in various sectors have the opportunity to immigrate.
Express Entry Draws
In a series of Express Entry draws conducted by IRCC, several categories of candidates have been invited to apply for immigration to Canada. On August 3, 2023, 1,500 trades candidates were selected in a category-based selection round. These candidates were required to have a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 388. The previous day, on August 2, IRCC invited 800 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 435 in a category-based draw targeting individuals with French-language proficiency. On August 1, a general Express Entry draw was held, inviting 2,000 candidates with a CRS cut-off requirement of 517.
Overall, the Express Entry draws have been successful in attracting skilled professionals to Canada. In the week of July 10-14, IRCC issued a total of 4,600 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in two separate draw rounds. The first draw was an all-program draw with a minimum CRS score of 505, while the second draw targeted candidates with French language proficiency and required a minimum CRS score of 439.
Targeted Categories
IRCC has been focusing on targeted categories in its efforts to bring more qualified professionals to Canada. While the department has successfully conducted category-based draws for Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and healthcare professionals, there are still three other categories that have not yet been utilized:
1. Trade occupations: This category includes professions such as welders, carpenters, and plumbers. These skilled workers play a crucial role in various industries and are in high demand in Canada.
2. Transport occupations: Jobs in the transport sector, such as truck drivers, air pilots, railway traffic controllers, and deck officers, are essential for the smooth functioning of the country’s transportation system.
3. Agriculture and agri-food occupations: This category encompasses roles like butchers, contractors, and farm supervisors. With Canada’s strong agricultural industry, there is a need for skilled professionals in this sector.
Future Prospects
IRCC is expected to continue conducting both targeted and program-based Express Entry draws to attract skilled professionals to Canada. Recent trends suggest that these draws may occur separately or on consecutive days. This approach allows IRCC to address specific labor market needs while also considering candidates from various backgrounds.
Conclusion
Canada’s new selection process for Express Entry trades candidates based on categories is a significant step towards addressing labor market needs and attracting skilled professionals to the country. The category-based draws, along with targeted categories like STEM, healthcare, trade occupations, transport occupations, and agriculture and agri-food occupations, provide opportunities for qualified individuals to immigrate to Canada. As IRCC continues its efforts to bring more skilled workers to the country, it is crucial for interested individuals to determine their eligibility through the free assessment form provided by the department.
Legal Opinion: Canada’s New Selection Process for Express Entry Trades Candidates Based on Categories
Introduction:
This legal opinion examines the new selection process introduced by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for trades candidates under the Express Entry program. The opinion analyzes the legality and effectiveness of this process in addressing labor market needs and attracting skilled professionals to Canada.
Legal Analysis:
1. Legality:
The new selection process for Express Entry trades candidates based on categories appears to be legally sound. IRCC has the authority to establish selection criteria and procedures for immigration programs under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. This includes the ability to prioritize certain categories, such as trade occupations, transport occupations, and agriculture and agri-food occupations, based on labor market needs.
2. Addressing Labor Market Needs:
The introduction of category-based draws for trades candidates demonstrates IRCC’s commitment to addressing specific labor market needs in Canada. By targeting occupations that are in high demand, such as welders, carpenters, truck drivers, and farm supervisors, IRCC aims to attract skilled professionals who can contribute to the country’s industries and sectors facing shortages.
3. Effectiveness:
The Express Entry draws conducted by IRCC have proven successful in attracting skilled professionals to Canada. The recent selection rounds have resulted in the invitation of a significant number of candidates with varying Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. This approach allows IRCC to consider candidates from different backgrounds while still addressing specific labor market needs.
4. Future Prospects:
IRCC is expected to continue conducting both targeted and program-based Express Entry draws in the future. It is likely that category-based draws will occur separately or on consecutive days, allowing IRCC to address specific labor market needs effectively. This approach ensures that skilled professionals from various sectors have opportunities to immigrate to Canada.
Conclusion:
Canada’s new selection process for Express Entry trades candidates based on categories is a commendable step towards addressing labor market needs and attracting skilled professionals to the country. The introduction of category-based draws, along with targeting specific sectors like STEM, healthcare, trade occupations, transport occupations, and agriculture and agri-food occupations, provides ample opportunities for qualified individuals to immigrate to Canada. Interested individuals should assess their eligibility through the free assessment form provided by IRCC to take advantage of these opportunities.