In a groundbreaking development, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently conducted its second Express Entry draw of the week. On September 20, IRCC issued invitations to 1,000 candidates with work experience in transport occupations to apply for permanent residence.

A Milestone in Express Entry History

The most recent Express Entry draw held on September 20, 2023, marked a historic moment for the program. It was the first-ever category-based selection draw targeting candidates with experience in transport occupations. IRCC’s decision to focus on this specific sector stems from the pressing need to address an ongoing labor shortage within the transportation industry.

Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, emphasized the critical role of the transportation sector in Canada’s economy. In an interview, he mentioned that “efficient transportation is crucial for a robust economy, thus it is important to invest in the skillset and people that move travelers and transport our goods.”

Summer of Express Entry Draws

The year 2023 has seen a notable increase in the number of Express Entry draws compared to previous years. This upsurge can be attributed to the introduction of category-based selection rounds of invitations. However, it is worth noting that there was a noticeable pause in draws until this week’s announcement.

The last draw prior to September 20 occurred on August 15, where 4,300 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in an all-program draw. Despite the frequency of draws earlier in the summer, IRCC did not provide an official explanation for the brief hiatus in draw activity.

Express Entry Draw Summary Since June 2023

To provide a comprehensive overview of the Express Entry draw results since June 2023, here is a summary:

• September 20: Transport Occupations – 1,000 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 435
• September 19: All-Program Draw – 3,200 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 531
• August 15: All-Program Draw – 4,300 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 496
• August 3: Trade Occupations – 1,500 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 388
• August 2: French Language Proficiency – 800 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 435
• August 1: All-Program Draw – 2,000 ITAs, Minimum CRS Score: 517

Understanding Express Entry

Express Entry is a sophisticated application management system that oversees three of Canada’s major economic immigration pathways: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. While each program has distinct eligibility criteria, they all use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess and rank candidates.

Category-Based Selection

IRCC introduced category-based selection Express Entry draws on May 31, 2023, expanding the program’s scope. These categories cater to candidates with specific skills and experiences in high-demand sectors, including healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, agriculture, and agri-food.

Candidates eligible for an ITA through category-based selection must still be part of an Express Entry program and should aim for a high CRS score to remain competitive. IRCC’s rationale for these new categories is to address urgent job vacancies in key sectors of the Canadian workforce and bolster the nation’s economy. The inaugural Express Entry draw for transport occupations signals a pivotal moment in Canada’s immigration landscape. It underscores the nation’s commitment to addressing labor shortages in critical sectors and welcoming skilled individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economic growth. As the Express Entry program continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of opportunity for individuals worldwide who aspire to make Canada their new home.