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In a significant development for Canada's immigration system, the long-awaited Express Entry draws have resumed, marking the end of a month-long hiatus. Shortly before the release of the draw results, IRCC announced the next phase in category-based ITAs. In a statement, they introduced the first-ever category-based selection invitations for newcomers with work experience in transport.
Express Entry Resumes
After a noticeable absence, the Express Entry system has returned with more ITAs to prospective Canadian immigrants. The IRCC has issued 3,200 invitations in an all-program draw on September 19th.
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) was 531. It's worth noting that this draw follows the most recent all-program draw on August 15, where 4,300 candidates secured ITAs.
While the exact reason for the pause in draws remains unexplained, IRCC's commitment to resuming Express Entry draws signals a promising future for immigrants eager to make Canada their new home.
New Category-Based Invitations Announced
On September 18, 2023, IRCC released its latest strategy for Express Entry: category-based selection based on transport skills. This approach aims to address labor shortages, boost the economy, and attract specific skill sets to the country. The first round of invitations for transport occupations is set to happen this week, targeting candidates with experience in the transport sector, including:
- Commercial truck drivers
- Pilots and;
- Aircraft assembly workers
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasizes the importance of this strategy in advancing Canada's economy and ensuring the efficiency of its transport sector. Category-based selection offers a tailored pathway for skilled newcomers, aligning immigration with the nation's economic needs.
He stated in the release, “As Canada grows its economy, we’re committed to improving transport and infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and passengers across the country.”
The initiative is heavily supported by The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport, who stated,
“The transportation sector is crucial to our economy, and if we want to keep things moving, we need to invest in the people that move travelers and transport our goods. With this new initiative, we are helping address a critical skills shortage while also attracting new, talented people to communities across Canada. Truck drivers, pilots, aviation mechanical engineers, and seafarers play a critical role in our economy and Canadians’ lives. Filling vacancies in these professions will boost economic growth and create stronger and more resilient supply chains.”
What Are Canada’s Category-Based ITAs?
Category-based selection, introduced on May 31, 2023, brings a new dimension to Express Entry. Candidates can now receive ITAs based on specific attributes, prioritizing sectors that face skill shortages. The five in-demand sectors include healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, agriculture, and agri-food.
Since the inception of these categories, several draws have invited candidates from healthcare, STEM, trades, and those proficient in French. In total, 10,900 candidates have received ITAs through category-based selection in 2023. This innovative approach seeks to attract top global talent and fill critical job vacancies, strengthening Canada's workforce and economy.
Miller further stated, “Category-based selection helps us invite newcomers with experience in transport occupations to fill significant labour gaps and ensure the future success of the Canadian transport sector. I look forward to welcoming more skilled workers to our country, as their knowledge and expertise are invaluable to meet our labour market needs.”
As Canada continues to evolve and adapt to the changing global landscape, these changes offer new hope and opportunities for individuals with the skills and expertise Canada seeks.
The reintroduction of Express Entry draws and the innovative category-based selection represent a pivotal moment in Canadian immigration history.
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