An in-depth analysis from the Globe and Mail sheds new light on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) strategic targets for their Express Entry category-based selection approach in 2023. Commencing in late June, IRCC has introduced category-based draws within the Express Entry system, comprising six distinct categories, each meticulously chosen to advance specific economic objectives.

Based on data acquired from IRCC, the Globe and Mail unveils IRCC’s heightened emphasis on enlisting professionals in STEM fields. Notably, a significant proportion, ranging between 28 percent and 31 percent, of the forthcoming Express Entry invitations are anticipated to be extended to individuals with recent expertise in designated STEM roles such as software developers and data scientists.

To date, only one round of STEM invitations has been conducted, benefiting 500 prospective applicants.

The allocation for STEM occupations significantly surpasses that of other occupational segments. Specifically, the target bracket for candidates demonstrating French proficiency lies between 11 percent and 15 percent. Likewise, targets are set at nine percent to 12 percent for specific healthcare roles, three percent to four percent for trades, and one percent to two percent for both transportation and agriculture occupations.

What Exactly is Express Entry? Express Entry stands as IRCC’s mechanism for managing applications submitted by proficient workers aspiring to achieve permanent residency status in Canada. The system encompasses three key programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Upon submission of an Express Entry profile, candidates are subject to ranking according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This points-based system evaluates various factors such as age, education, language prowess, work experience, and more. Consequently, the Canadian authorities identify the highest-scoring candidates from the Express Entry pool and issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

Express Entry’s Draws in Different Facets:

General Invitations: IRCC extends invitations to individuals possessing the most elevated CRS scores, inviting them to apply for permanent residency. Program-Specific Invitations: Eligible individuals with top-ranking CRS scores for a specific Express Entry program are invited by IRCC. Category-Based Invitations: IRCC extends invitations to those with top-ranking CRS scores, who qualify under distinct categories designated by IRCC, each aligned with precise economic objectives.

A Peek into Category-Based Express Entry Selection:

IRCC has recently unveiled category-based selection draws targeting Express Entry candidates. The focus is keenly on candidates who exhibit robust proficiency in the French language or possess professional experience in the following domains:

Healthcare Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields Trades encompassing roles such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors Transportation Agriculture and agri-food sectors

This category selection approach evolved following a comprehensive public consultation that garnered 289 responses from diverse stakeholders nationwide. Additionally, it was informed by labor market projections and inputs from IRCC collaborators, provincial bodies, and territories.

Since the inauguration of category-based draws, three draws have centered on French language proficiency, leading to 6,900 applicants securing invitations for permanent residency. Furthermore, two draws have targeted healthcare occupations, resulting in 2,000 invitations, while one draw zeroed in on trades occupations, offering 1,500 individuals the opportunity to apply for permanent residence.