Canada’s Express Entry program has witnessed a series of frequent draws, including specialized ones for French-speakers and healthcare professionals, employing category-based selection criteria. These draws serve as a pathway to invite skilled international workers, offering them permanent residency in Canada. In the past two weeks, a remarkable total of six rounds of invitations have been conducted, resulting in over 9,800 candidates being invited through Express Entry.
French-Speakers Draw
In a significant development, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently organized its inaugural French category-based Express Entry draw. This particular draw aimed to invite candidates with proficient French-speaking abilities. A total of 2,300 candidates were selected, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement of 439, the lowest observed in 2023.
STEM Professionals Draw
On July 5, a draw exclusively for candidates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions was conducted. This event marked the first-ever draw of its kind, inviting 500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 486.
All-Program Draw
An unexpected all-program draw took place on July 4, in which 700 candidates were considered. The minimum CRS score requirement for this draw was 511, the highest among all all-program draws in 2023.
Highlights of Recent Express Entry Draws-
- Invitations for French-Speakers:
- French-speaking abilities were the sole category-based selection criteria.
- Work experience was not the key attribute for these six new selection categories.
- The draw aimed to support economic growth through Francophone immigration outside Quebec, promoting the French language.
- Category-Based Selection:
- New categories were introduced by Canada’s immigration minister, Sean Fraser, on May 31.
- These categories were established under a law passed last June, enabling the minister to invite economic immigration candidates based on specific attributes rather than the overall CRS score.
- The 2023 categories include healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, agriculture and agri-food, and strong French-language proficiency.
- These categories will undergo annual reviews and may be subject to modifications in 2024.
Canada’s Express Entry program has witnessed a surge in draws, showcasing the country’s commitment to attracting skilled international workers. The recent draws included a milestone French category-based draw and the first-ever draw for STEM professionals. These initiatives highlight Canada’s focus on promoting the French language and targeting specific sectors to fuel economic growth and community enrichment.
For more such news stay tuned to FELA News!
