The Express Entry program in Canada has recently implemented a new approach called category-based selection to invite eligible candidates for permanent residence. This innovative method focuses on specific categories established by the Minister, with the goal of meeting identified economic objectives. Candidates who possess certain qualifications and skills, such as language proficiency, work experience in specific occupational categories, and education, will be invited to apply for permanent residence.
Category-based rounds of invitations complement the general and program-specific rounds by targeting top-ranking candidates who can contribute to specific economic goals. The chosen categories will be announced in advance, ensuring transparency and allowing candidates to prepare accordingly.
Candidates who have received a provincial or territorial nomination will continue to be invited through general and Provincial Nominee Program-specific rounds. These individuals have demonstrated their ability to contribute to the economy of their respective province or territory.
The selection of categories is based on comprehensive labor market information, projections, and feedback received from various stakeholders, including provinces, territories, and other partners across the country. Each year, a report will be presented to Parliament, outlining the categories chosen, the rationale behind the selection, instructions for establishing each category, and the number of invitations issued for each category. The Express Entry Year-End Report will also include information about category-based selection and provide regular monitoring and assessment of the chosen categories.
For the year 2023, the selected categories are as follows:
French-language proficiency
Healthcare occupations
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations
Trade occupations
Transport occupations
Agriculture and agri-food occupations
To be eligible for an invitation through a category-based round, candidates must meet all the requirements specified in the instructions for that particular round. When a category-based round of invitations takes place, candidates in the Express Entry pool who fulfill the category requirements will be ranked, and the top-ranking candidates will be invited to apply for permanent residence.
The introduction of category-based selection in Express Entry rounds of invitations ensures a targeted and efficient immigration system that aligns with Canada's economic priorities. By inviting candidates with the desired skills and qualifications, Canada aims to attract talented individuals who can contribute to the growth and development of communities nationwide.
To find out the eligibility criteria for each category, please click on the one you wan to consider as specific information provided for:
