Immigration Blog

Canada’s Express Entry system is undertook notable changes that will impact skilled immigrants seeking permanent residency. In an effort to address labour market demands and skill shortages, Canada will now target 82 occupations across five key fields through the Express Entry draws, starting in the summer of 2023.

Introduced in 2015, the Express Entry system manages applications for permanent residency from skilled workers. It employs the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based system that evaluates candidates based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. Candidates with the highest rankings receive invitations to apply for permanent residency through regular draws.

Targeting Occupations and Fields

Canada shifted its focus to specific occupations within five key fields: Information Technology, Health Care, Engineering, Finance, and Trades. This strategic approach aims to address critical skill gaps, stimulate economic growth, and enhance employment prospects for immigrants in their respective fields upon arrival.

The list of 82 targeted occupations has been meticulously curated to encompass a diverse range of professions within the designated fields ensuring candidates with relevant expertise can contribute to the Canadian workforce. Under the new system, candidates will receive additional points for work experience, job offers, or Canadian education within the targeted occupations such as software engineers, nurses, civil engineers, financial analysts, electricians, and more. These additional points aim to increase the likelihood of receiving an invitation for candidates in the desired fields. While the points allocation for other factors, such as language proficiency and education, remains unchanged, the modifications place greater weight on occupation-specific qualifications. This shift in focus also enhances the likelihood of finding suitable employment in their respective fields upon arrival, leading to better integration and success in the Canadian job market.

Economic Benefits for Canada

Canada’s decision to target specific occupations through the Express Entry draws offers economic advantages for both immigrants and the country. By addressing skill shortages, Canada promotes innovation, economic growth, and productivity across key sectors. Skilled workers contribute to increased tax revenue, stimulate local businesses, and facilitate knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship. Moreover, the diverse experiences and perspectives immigrants bring enrich Canada’s social fabric and strengthen its global market position.

Prospective immigrants shall ensure their profiles accurately reflect their occupation and related qualifications. Candidates may consider improving their language proficiency, obtaining Canadian educational credentials, or gaining relevant work experience to maximize their CRS score and increase their chances of receiving an invitation.

French Language Proficiency

A French-language proficiency category has been added to the targeted express entry criteria. The requirements are straightforward. Firstly, candidates must possess French-language test results that demonstrate a minimum score of 7 in all four language abilities as outlined in the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (Levels of French Language Proficiency). Meeting the minimum score in each language ability (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) is essential to qualify for the French-language proficiency category.

In addition to the language test results, applicants must also fulfill all the requirements specified in the instructions for the respective round of application. These instructions provide detailed guidelines and criteria that candidates need to meet in order to be considered eligible. It is crucial for applicants to thoroughly review and understand the specific instructions provided for each round they intend to apply for. These instructions provide comprehensive information on the specific criteria and documentation required, ensuring transparency and clarity in the application process.

By aligning immigration policies with economic needs, Canada strives to foster growth, innovation, and diversity while providing a clear and efficient pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers.

Have clarifications?

Reach out and seek guidance of Al Dar Immigration Services to ensure a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria. Book a consultation to learn more.

Email: info@aldar.ca

Phone #: +1 807-356-1731

Full List of 82 Targeted Occupations