Canada’s Express Entry system is going to experience some major changes in 2023. The pathway is used to welcome international skilled workers to Canada by offering permanent resident status. Specifically, Express Entry is Canada’s online system for managing skilled worker applications from three different programs – the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
The federal government has clearly stated that changes are required to highlight the major labour shortage in the country.
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser said, “the current Express Entry all-program draws do not sufficiently help Canada bring in foreign nationals with the most in-demand skills.” It is likely that Canada will “see an increase in retention rates [among migrants who settle in specific communities] because people are coming where they know they have opportunities,” he said.
Accordingly, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) aim to start organizing targeted Express Entry draws next year. And as per the strategy, Express will target applicants based on their occupation, language, and education to evaluate who will be given Canadian permanent residency status.
IRCC states that they will consult various stakeholders to introduce new categories in Express Entry to finally decide on the details of the new format.
What Changes are Expected to Occur in Express Entry in 2023?
Currently, IRCC will continue to organize Express Entry draws as usual. Every two weeks, a certain number of invitations to apply (ITAs) will be issued based on CRS scores.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores will be based on the attributes such as age, official language proficiency, and Canadian work experience. This process will help the country to have the right international talent for the job.
In 2023, Express Entry will move away from focusing on CRS scores and instead conduct draws that allow Canada to welcome immigrants that will aid the country in addressing specific areas of labour market requirements and need.
In 2025, Canada will welcome 500,000 new immigrants
Canada is planning to welcome more immigrants in the coming years. According to the Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, 465,000 new immigrants will be welcomed in 2023. This number is to increase further as the country is likely to set a target of 485,000 new immigrants in 2024, and 500,000 in 2025.
Leave a Reply