To meet a growing demand for skilled labour, on June 2, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced its first-ever category-based selection for immigration candidates, called Express Entry. This applies to people seeking to permanently immigrate to Canada via the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
This builds on a June 2022 announcement for the selection of immigrants based on key attributes that support economic priorities. These most recent changes to the Express Entry selection system will prioritize French language speakings and prospective immigrants to Canada with industry-specific skills (see below).
The government is hoping to address several economic needs with this new category-based Express Entry selection system, including:
- Spur economic growth
- Meet growing labour demands
- Strengthen French communities
IRCC indicates that category-based selection translates into the Government of Canada issuing invitations to apply to prospective permanent residents with specific skills, training or language ability. More details regarding these categories and the specific needs are set to be released in the coming weeks; however, the targeted categories for 2023 will be:
- Proficiency in the French language
- Healthcare workers – 35 Occupations
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workers – 24 Occupations
- Tradespeople such as carpenters, plumbers, contractors – 10 Occupations
- Transportation workers – 10 Occupations
- Agriculture workers – 3 Occupations
“Everywhere I go, I’ve heard loud and clear from employers across the country who are experiencing chronic labour shortages,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
“These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they have the skilled workers they need to grow and succeed. We can also grow our economy and help businesses with labour shortages while also increasing the number of French-proficient candidates to help ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities. Put simply, Canada’s immigration system has never been more responsive to the country’s social or economic needs.”
Guberman // Appleby Immigration Lawyers can help you navigate the new category based Express Entry System by looking at your background and skills to assist in determining an immigration strategy for your to become a permanent resident in Canada. Likewise, if you are already in the Express Entry pool, we will be able to advise as to whether it may be necessary to further extend your work permit in the event that you are not likely to receive and ITA in 2023.
How Guberman // Appleby Immigration Lawyers Can Help with Express Entry
With many years of experience as Canadian immigration lawyers, Guberman // Appleby Immigration Lawyers is well-suited to help with Express Entry and your Application for Permanent Residence in Canada.
We will assess your situation and advise as to the strategy that is best for your situation and set of facts. We will also examine other Permanent Resident options, if necessary.
Each case is unique, and we will provide a customized immigration solution for you. We will provide you with efficient and personalized service with our lawyers and law clerks always available to respond to your questions.
// CONTACT US
We welcome you to contact us directly to discuss the above. Please contact one of our immigration lawyers, by reaching out to our general line 416 548 7100 or via email info@gaimmlaw.com. Our immigration lawyers are always available to discuss any of your specific Canadian or US immigration queries either virtually or in person. We look forward to hearing from you.
