Understanding category-based invitations to the Express Entry Draw (EED)

The Express Entry system for immigration to Canada has undergone a major overhaul with the introduction of category-based selection, now prioritizing specific skills and work experience over high CRS scores. This new model, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), targets six key areas: health, STEM, skilled trades, transportation, agriculture and French language proficiency. The change is intended to fill gaps in various sectors of the Canadian economy and promote linguistic diversity. While generally welcomed, the system raises questions about its complexity and the potential neglect of other skills or sectors. The CRS scores required for each category have also fluctuated, offering opportunities to a wider variety of candidates. Invitation to Apply (ITA) volumes have increased, suggesting greater accessibility and diversity in the pool of potential immigrants.

Express entry: What is category-based selection?

As part of immigration to Canadacategory-based selection represents a major innovation in contrast to the previous score-based model of the Global Ranking System (CRS). Introduced on May 31 by ImmigrationThis new approach prioritizes specific professional attributes and language skills rather than focusing solely on high CRS scores.

How does the new approach differ from earlier prints?

Prior to May 2023, the Express Entry system in Canada was based primarily on the Global Rating System (SCG or CRS in English) to select candidates for immigration. The CRS evaluates various factors, such as age, professional experience, professional qualifications, etc. level of education and skills to determine a candidate's eligibility. But with the new change introduced by IRCC, the Canada is now looking to target skills and experience to fill gaps in specific sectors of the economy.

Targeted occupational categories

The idea is to fill specific gaps in the Canadian workforce and promote French outside Quebec. It's a pragmatic response to the changing needs of the Canadian labor market and the country's linguistic diversity objectives.

The new system comprises six major categories:

1. Health : Targets healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses and related professions.
2. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Focus on candidates with skills in these high-demand areas.
3. Specialized trades : Aimed at manual professions such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors.
4. Transport : Favours candidates with experience in the transport sector such as truck drivers.
5. Agriculture and agri-food For those with experience in agriculture and related food industries.
6. French language skills : To encourage francophone immigration outside Quebec.

Examples of jobs in demand in the various categories

Depending on your area of expertise and skills, the selection system based on categories offers various opportunities to immigrate to Canada. This diversification of criteria opens doors to a wider variety of talent, enriching the Canadian workforce and culture.

Although French language skills is not directly linked to a profession, it is highly valued for all professions, particularly in the teaching, social services and government sectors.

This table gives an overview of the opportunities available in each category. If you specialize in one of these professions, your chances of immigrating in Canada could be significantly increased.

Analysis of draw results since June 2023

The aim of this section is to provide a detailed overview of the Canadian immigration draws that have taken place since June 2023. We will focus on various aspects such as the total number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued, the minimum CRS scores required for each category, and how these figures compare to previous years.

Summary of draws and number of Invitations to Apply (ITA) issued :

• September 28 : 600 ITAs, Agriculture and agri-food, Minimum CRS score : 354
• September 27 500 ITAs, French language proficiency, CRS score minimum: 472
• September 26 3,000 ITAs, All categories, Minimum CRS score: 504
• September 20 1,000 ITAs, Transport, Minimum CRS score: 435
• September 19 3,200 ITAs, All categories, Minimum CRS score: 531
• August 15 4,300 ITAs, All categories, Minimum CRS score: 496
• August 3 1,500 ITAs, Specialized trades, Minimum CRS score: 388
• July 12 3,800 ITAs, French language proficiency, CRS score minimum: 375
• July 6 1,500 ITAs, Health, Minimum CRS score: 463
• June 28 : 500 ITAs, Health, Minimum CRS score : 476

Minimum CRS scores required for each category

• Health Scores between 463 and 476
• Specialized trades Score of 388
• Transport Score of 435
• Agriculture and agri-food Score of 354
• French language skills Scores between 375 and 472
• All categories Scores between 496 and 531

How do minimum CRS scores fluctuate in the new system? As a rule, the minimum scores required for specific categories are often lower than those for all-program draws. The change in selection criteria to focus on specific categories has broadened the spectrum of eligible candidates. For example, the minimum CRS score was as low as 354 for the Agriculture and Agri-Food category, well below the 504 score required for the normal all-program draw on September 26.

In the health professions category, the minimum CRS scores were also more lenient, going down to 375, compared to the normal draw which required a score of 531. For STEM trades, scores ranged from 486 upwards, a substantial difference from the high standard of all-program draws.

According to the data available, the total volume of ITAs increased significantly compared with previous years. This increase can be attributed to several factors, not least the implementation of the category-based selection system.

The introduction of category-based draws has not only diversified the type of skills sought, but also enabled more people to apply, as evidenced by the increased volume of ITAs. Minimum CRS scores have also varied considerably, offering opportunities to a greater number of candidates with specific skills.

Criticism and thoughts on the introduction of category-based selection

What is this new approach to selection based on categories brings to the Canadian immigration system? On the one hand, this strategy addresses the specific needs of the Canadian labor market by targeting fields such as healthcare, STEM, skilled trades, and more. It offers a chance to candidates who may have lower CRS scores but are nonetheless highly qualified in their field.

On the other hand, this approach can also create problems. For example, focusing on specific categories could lead to a neglect of other sectors or skills that are equally important but less "in vogue". In addition, more complex criteria can make the immigration process more difficult for applicants to navigate.

Reaction from immigrant communities and Canadian employers

Immigrant communities on the whole seem satisfied with this diversification of criteria, especially those traditionally less represented in high CRS score draws. However, some feel that this may create increased competition in specific categories, making immigration more difficult for those who don't fit into these predefined boxess.

Canadian employers, for their part, seem encouraged by this initiative, which gives them access to a more specific talent pool tailored to their needs. Nevertheless, some are concerned about the increased complexity of the system and the administrative challenges that may arise.

What does this change for the promotion of the french language outside Quebec?

Certainly, the introduction of a French language proficiency category is a step forward in promoting the French language outside Quebec. It's an opportunity for Francophones to enter the Canadian job market, contributing to greater linguistic diversity. It could also encourage French-language teaching programs and increase demand for French-language services in other provinces.

How do I prepare for a category-based Express Entry draw?

The adaptation of Canada's immigration system to specific categories has introduced new opportunities, but also new challenges for applicants. So.., how to prepare yourself to maximize your chances in this new environment? Here are a few things to consider.

First and foremost, it's important to meet the system's eligibility criteria. Express Input. This includes, but is not limited to, age, work experience, level of education, and language skills. Once you're sure you meet the basic requirements, you can prepare more specifically for a category-based draw.

A few tips to help you prepare for a category-based Express Entry draw

1. Check your eligibility for the target category
   Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) publishes a list of eligible trades and skills for each draw. Make sure your profile matches one of the occupations listed on the IRCC website.
2. Complete your Express Entry profile carefully
   This profile is your ticket to immigration to Canada. Including accurate and complete information can make all the difference. Don't overlook details such as years of experience, diplomas and language skills.
3. Optimize your SCG score
   The Global Ranking System (GRS) is the metric used to rank candidates. Try to improve it by taking additional courses, passing language tests or getting a job offer from a Canadian employer.
4. Showcase your specific skills
   IRCC is looking for profiles that match Canada's current needs. Do not hesitate to highlight your qualifications or skills in your profile.

To find a job in Canada, we recommend our articles : How to find a work contract in Canada and The best job search sites in Canada.