In a groundbreaking move, Canada’s Express Entry system has introduced its first-ever invitation round specifically designed for tradespeople. This initiative is geared towards streamlining the immigration pathway for individuals with valuable expertise in key trade sectors, answering a burgeoning demand for talent. This strategy aims to fill crucial roles instrumental in driving Canada’s economy forward.
Previously, on May 31, Sean Fraser, the then Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, set in motion alterations to the Express Entry system through category-based selection. These modifications were primarily instituted to mitigate labour shortages and achieve certain economic targets by focusing on candidates possessing either particular work experience or French language proficiency for permanent residence applications.
Marc Miller, the incumbent Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has now declared the first category-based selection round specifically for trades. This round, opening this week, is designed to attract individuals skilled in trades, such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding, thereby aiding the construction sector to recruit the skilled personnel it desperately needs from coast to coast.
This selection method manifests Canada’s dedication to recruit leading global talent and fulfill the demand for skilled tradespeople to bolster the economy. The category-based selection rounds will persist throughout the year in conjunction with the general invitation rounds. Further details about these rounds are anticipated to be released in the coming weeks.
Background: Express Entry, Canada’s premier application management system, is meant for individuals aspiring to immigrate permanently via the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and a section of the Provincial Nominee Program.
In 2022, the Canadian government introduced amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to enable selection of immigrants based on critical attributes supporting economic priorities, including specific work experience or French language proficiency.
The category-based selection approach, announced on May 31, 2023, by then Minister Sean Fraser, was conceived to welcome skilled newcomers possessing work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents.
The categories were established after comprehensive consultations with provincial and territorial partners, stakeholders, and the public, coupled with a thorough review of labour market requirements. A comprehensive list of eligible jobs for these categories can be found on our website.
Under the Canada–Québec Accord, Quebec sets its own immigration levels. Between 2018 and 2022, the federal high skilled programs, encompassing the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program, made up 34% to 40% of total French-speaking admissions outside Quebec.
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