IRCC's Focus on Transport Occupations in Express Entry Category-Based Draws

Highlights:

• IRCC's Focus on Transport Occupations
• Why were Transport Occupations Chosen as a Category?
• Eligibility Requirements for the Transport Occupations Category
• Transportation Occupations
• Selection Process for Express Entry Category-Based Rounds of Invitation
• How Will Comprehensive Ranking System Scores Be Considered?

On May 31st, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the introduction of category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Express Entry candidates with a strong French language proficiency or work experience in specific fields will receive preference in the selection process. The targeted categories include:

• Healthcare
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
• Trades such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
• Transport
• Agriculture and agri-food

These occupation choices were made based on information received about labor market shortages in Canada. IRCC collaborated with provinces, territories, and stakeholders across the country to gather valuable input.

In its inaugural category-based Express Entry draw on June 28th, IRCC invited 500 healthcare workers to apply for permanent residency. Another draw is scheduled for July 5th, inviting an additional 1,500 healthcare workers. Simultaneously, on the same day, another category-based draw is anticipated, targeting eligible candidates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions.

Express Entry Draw 253: IRCC Surprises Candidates with 700 Invitations

Why were Transport Occupations Chosen as a Category?

Transport occupations have been selected as a category within Express Entry to address the growing labor market needs in Canada. Employment and Social Development Canada reported a doubling in the number of occupations facing shortages between 2019 and 2021.

Statistics Canada's data from the fourth quarter of 2022 highlighted the significant job vacancies in both wholesale trades (30,930 vacancies) and retail trades (108,795 vacancies), which fall under the Trades category.

To enhance Express Entry through category-based selection, IRCC conducted a public consultation that involved gathering feedback and suggestions from various stakeholders and the public. The consultation revealed widespread support for using category-based selection to address labor market shortages in specific occupations or sectors.

Among the suggested categories, trades, transport, and equipment operations, along with related occupations, were identified as the sector experiencing the greatest needs. Approximately 16% of respondents highlighted this sector, which was reflected by a high proportion of stakeholders representing the industry.

By prioritizing transport occupations in Express Entry category-based draws, IRCC aims to effectively address labor market demands and support the continued growth and development of the transportation sector in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for the Transport Occupations Category

To be eligible for the transport occupations category, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Meet the eligibility criteria of one of the Express Entry programs, which include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program.
• Possess a minimum of 6 months of continuous work experience within the past 3 years in one of the occupations listed for the transport category.
• Fulfill all other requirements specified in the instructions for the particular round of selection.

By meeting these criteria, you can increase your chances of qualifying for the Express Entry program under the transport occupations category.

Transportation Occupations

The transport occupation category encompasses a range of vital roles within the transportation sector. Here are the 10 occupations included in this category:

• Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors
• Transport truck drivers
• Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators
• Engineer officers, water transport
• Deck officers, water transport
• Air traffic controllers and related occupations
• Air pilots, flight engineers, and flying instructors
• Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
• Railway carmen/women
• Managers in transportation

These occupations play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of various transportation modes, from aviation and rail to trucking and maritime operations. By highlighting these in-demand jobs, the transport occupation category aims to attract skilled professionals who can contribute to Canada's thriving transportation industry.

Selection Process for Express Entry Category-Based Rounds of Invitation

In the category-based draws of Express Entry, IRCC will invite eligible candidates to apply for permanent residence based on specific criteria. The selection process considers the following factors:

• Work experience in a specific Technical, Expertise, and Experience Required (TEER) category as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
• Language proficiency in either English or French.
• Educational qualifications.

By assessing these criteria, IRCC aims to identify candidates who possess the necessary skills, experience, and language abilities required for the specific category. Invitations will be extended to those who meet the eligibility requirements, offering them the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in Canada through Express Entry.

How Will Comprehensive Ranking System Scores Be Considered?

In Express Entry, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) plays a crucial role in assessing candidates' eligibility. Category-based draws are conducted alongside general and program-specific draws to select top-ranking candidates who can contribute to Canada's labor market and economic goals.

The CRS score, determined based on factors such as age, education, language skills, and work experience, remains a significant consideration in category-based draws. IRCC will extend invitations to candidates who not only have high CRS scores but also meet the eligibility requirements for the specific category-based draw.

By emphasizing both the CRS score and eligibility for the category, IRCC aims to select candidates with the strongest profiles to receive invitations for permanent residency in Canada through Express Entry.

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