Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed it will continue using the same six category-based streams for Express Entry draws throughout 2024. These targeted categories, introduced in mid-2023, are designed to align immigration with Canada’s economic and labor force needs.
According to an official IRCC communication, selection rounds will remain focused on candidates with specific work experience, educational credentials, or language abilities that support national priorities. The current categories include:
– French language proficiency
– Healthcare occupations
– STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations
– Trade occupations
– Transport occupations
– Agriculture and agri-food occupations
This tailored approach allows Canada to attract skilled newcomers who can directly contribute to high-demand sectors and address persistent labor shortages across the country. It also supports linguistic diversity by prioritizing French-speaking candidates outside Quebec.
Category-based Express Entry rounds were first launched in June 2023 after consultations with provincial governments, employer groups, unions, and other stakeholders. These consultations helped identify key sectors integral to Canada’s economy and regional development goals.
In 2023, IRCC conducted 17 category-based selection draws and invited over 16,000 candidates from eligible fields. The inaugural draw on June 28 focused on the healthcare sector and issued invitations to 1,500 qualified professionals. This year has already seen a major draw targeting French-speaking candidates, with 7,000 invitations issued in January.
These categories are subject to an annual review as part of IRCC’s report to Parliament. Adjustments may be made based on evolving labor market trends and feedback from partner organizations across Canada.
Maple News will continue to monitor any updates or changes to Express Entry policies as the year progresses, helping skilled workers and aspiring immigrants stay informed and prepared.