The IRCC unveiled the second Express Entry draw this week. However, this draw came out as category-based for STEM occupations.
In this draw, the IRCC sent the invitation to apply to candidates with the experience in-
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics (STEM) occupations
By conducting this draw, 500 ITAs were issued by the IRCC to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 486.
Last week, IRCC made it public that they would conduct a category-based draw for STEM occupations this week. In this draw, the primary targets would be candidates with a decent amount of work experience in occupations associated with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
In addition to this, the IRCC confirmed that they would come up with one more draw this week, especially for healthcare workers. In this draw, the IRCC would send invitations to apply for permanent residency to 1,500 healthcare workers.
The first-ever category-based draw was conducted on June 28, 2023. In this draw, the ITAs were sent to 500 people having work experience in healthcare-related occupations. In this draw, the minimum CRS requirement was 471, which was recorded as the lowest CRS score of 2023 so far.
On July 4, 2023, the IRCC came up with a surprise all-program draw. This draw sent ITAs to 700 candidates meeting a minimum CRS requirement of 511. An all-program draw is a type of draw wherein candidates from all three programs (FSWP, FSTP, and CEC) under Express Entry are invited to apply. Candidates who meet the minimum CRS requirement in an all-program draw are considered.
Also Read: Another Surprise Express Entry Draw Invites 700 Candidates
Have a Look at the Eligible STEM Occupations for category-based selection
According to the most recent news, the IRCC said they would prioritize bringing candidates with STEM experience. Bringing candidates having work experience in STEM occupations will help to fulfill the economic requirements smoothly throughout Canada.
The total number of eligible occupations under the STEM draw:
| Architects |
| Architecture and science managers |
| Business systems specialists |
| Civil Engineers |
| Computer and information systems managers |
| Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) |
| Computer systems developers and programmers |
| Cybersecurity specialists |
| Data scientists |
| Database analysts and data administrators |
| Electrical and electronics engineers |
| Engineering managers |
| Industrial and manufacturing engineers |
| Information systems specialists |
| Land surveyors |
| Landscape Architects |
| Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries |
| Metallurgical and materials engineers |
| Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers |
| Software developers and programmers |
| Software engineers and designers |
| Urban and land use planners |
| Web designers |
| Web developers and programmers |
On May 31, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Sean Fraser, said that the revised category-based selection standards for Express Entry draws had been finalized by the IRCC. Forecasts for the employment market and conversations with IRCC partners, stakeholders, and the provincial and territorial governments informed the selection of the categories. The chosen categories are the following:
| Healthcare |
| Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions |
| Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors |
| Transport |
| Agriculture and agri-food |
| Strong French-language proficiency |
The category-based draws have been waiting for everyone since June 2022, since Bill C-19 got royal assent from the Canadian government. Bill C-19 allows the immigration minister, Mr. Sean Faser, to conduct the draws based on specific attributes that will help the Canadian economy flourish. These category-based draws will help to tackle workforce shortage effectively to boost the economy.
Also Read: Immigration is “Highly and Increasingly” Supported in Canada
FAQs Related to Category-based Draws
Is the eligibility criteria different in each new category?
In order to stand in line with any category out of five, you must have a minimum of 6 months of work experience in Canada or abroad within the last 3 years in an occupation listed under the list of eligible occupations. Along with this, you should be standing in line with all the guidelines listed by the program.
For example, if you opt for a category named “strong French language proficiency,” you are required to prove your proficiency in French by taking a language test that proves a minimum score of 7 across all abilities. Along with French proficiency, you will have to satisfy the other requirements of the program.
Am I still eligible if I don’t qualify for Express Entry but have STEM work experience?
Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Programme, and the Canadian Experience Class are examples of Express Entry programs. Candidates must be in the Express Entry application pool through one of the three programs to be eligible for invites in a category-based selection draw.
Does CRS score matter?
According to the IRCC, category-based rounds of invites will rank applicants who fit the qualifications in the Express Entry pool, inviting the top applicants to submit applications for permanent residence. Eligible applicants will be ranked in accordance with their CRS score, just like in an all-program draw.
How frequently will there be category-based selection draws?
The IRCC is not required to run Express Entry draws on a predetermined timetable or to extend invitations to a particular number of applicants through any particular program or category. As per the minister’s duty to support Canada’s economic interests, the French language draws are conducted at the minister of immigration’s discretion. Alternatively, it can take place at any moment for any category.
Remark:
Canada is all set to bring immigrants on a large scale. The Canadian government will highly desire immigrants who can contribute to the expansion of the economy. To know your eligibility for Canada PR, you can contact us through the following details:
- consultation@dss-hr.com
- 011-411-70411
