Express Entry: IRCC confirms it will resume draws this week
In an eagerly awaited announcement, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have just confirmed the resumption of Express Entry draws, signaling great opportunities on the horizon for prospective immigrants. The hiatus of over a month is finally coming to an end, rekindling hopes for candidates eyeing Canada as their future destination. In this article, we'll delve into the fresh updates surrounding Express Entry draws and the game-changing introduction of category-based selection for transport occupations.
Express Entry Draws: A Breath of Fresh Air
The most recent Express Entry draw took place on August 15, extending invitations to 4,300 candidates who scored a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 496. This all-program draw reignited the aspirations of candidates in the Express Entry pool, showcasing Canada's commitment to welcoming skilled individuals from around the world.
Transport Occupations Draw: A Unique Opportunity
In a press release dated September 18, IRCC announced its plan to issue invitations to Express Entry candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for the newly introduced category-based selection in transport occupations. This development is particularly significant for individuals engaged in transport-related professions, such as commercial truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers. The objective is to address labor shortages in these fields while driving Canada's economic growth forward.
IRCC's Vision for Canada's Economy
Canada's Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, emphasized the importance of category-based selection, stating, "As Canada continues to bolster its economy, our focus is on enhancing transport and infrastructure to facilitate the efficient movement of goods and passengers across the country." This innovative selection process aims to attract newcomers with expertise in transport occupations, thereby bridging vital labor gaps and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the Canadian transport sector.
Category-Based Selection: A Turning Point
Category-based selection emerged on June 22, 2022, as part of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). It allows the selection of immigrants based on attributes aligned with Canada's economic priorities. IRCC introduced six new categories for Express Entry candidates, targeting sectors experiencing shortages of skilled labor:
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, encompassing carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
Since the inception of these categories, IRCC has conducted draws for healthcare, STEM, French-speaking candidates, and skilled trades. In 2023 alone, a remarkable 10,900 candidates have received invitations through category-based selection draws.
A Bright Future Awaits
IRCC believes that category-based selection will help Canada attract top global talent while fulfilling the demand for transport workers to bolster the economy. A recent report by the Globe and Mail estimates that transport occupations will represent one to two percent of each Express Entry category-based selection draw, offering promising prospects for candidates in this field.
Your Path to Canada Begins Here
As the curtains rise on Express Entry draws once more and the spotlight shines on the category-based selection for transport occupations, the path to Canada has never seemed more inviting. Whether you're interested in a Canada PR visa, study visa, or any other immigration avenue, the journey to your Canadian dream is now clearer than ever.
For personalized guidance and support throughout your immigration journey, Pelican Migration Consultants stands ready to assist you. Our team of immigration consultants in Dubai possesses the expertise and experience to navigate the intricacies of the immigration process, ensuring your journey to Canada is smooth and successful.
Don't miss this opportunity to make Canada your new home or educational destination. Your future in the Great White North begins now!
