On May 31st, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the introduction of category-based selection draws for Express Entry prospects by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

IRCC will give priority to Express Entry candidates who have a strong French language proficiency or work experience in the subsequent fields:
The targeted categories include:

• Healthcare
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
• Trades such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
• Transport
• Agriculture and agri-food

These professional choices were made based on data received about labor market shortages in Canada. IRCC collaborated with regions, territories, and stakeholders across the country to collect valuable input.

In its inaugural category-based Express Entry interest on June 28th, IRCC invited 500 healthcare employees to apply for permanent residency. Another draw is organized for July 5th, inviting an additional 1,500 healthcare workers.

Simultaneously, on the same day, another category-based draw is expected, targeting eligible candidates in science, technology, engineering, and computation professions.

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of Canadian immigration, the Express Entry system has revolutionized the way candidates are selected for permanent residence. As the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts category-based draws, it becomes essential to understand how IRCC prioritizes specific occupations. In this comprehensive article, we explore how IRCC gives importance to transport careers in Express Entry category-based draws and the implications for prospective immigrants.

Understanding the Express Entry System

Before delving into the prioritization of transport careers, let’s briefly examine the Express Entry system. It serves as a gateway to economic immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Eligible candidates create an Express Entry profile and are assigned Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability.

Why were Transport Occupations Chosen as a Category?

Transport occupations have been appointed as a category within Express Entry to address the growing labor market needs in Canada. Employment and Social Development Canada reported a doubling in the digit of occupations meeting shortages between 2019 and 2021. By prioritizing transport occupations in Express Entry category-based draws, IRCC aims to actually address labor market demands and support the continued evolution and development of the transportation sector in Canada.

Transport Careers: A Priority for IRCC

Transport careers, including truck drivers, delivery personnel, and other related occupations, play a vital role in Canada’s economy. The efficient movement of goods and people is crucial for various industries, such as logistics, manufacturing, and construction. Recognizing the importance of the transport sector, IRCC has taken steps to prioritize certain transport careers in Express Entry category-based draws.

Occupation-Specific Draws: The Path to Prioritization

IRCC conducts category-based draws regularly to select candidates who meet or exceed the CRS score requirement. While the draws are typically based on CRS scores, IRCC has the flexibility to prioritize specific occupations or sectors when the need arises. This allows IRCC to address labor market demands and contribute to economic growth across Canada.

What are the transportation occupations?

The transport occupation category encompasses a range of vital roles within the transportation sector. Here are the 10 occupations contained in this category:

• Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors
• Transport truck drivers
• Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators
• Engineer officers, water transport
• Deck officers, water transport
• Air traffic controllers and related occupations
• Air pilots, flight engineers, and flying instructors
• Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
• Railway carmen/women
• Managers in transportation

These occupations play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of different transportation modes, from aviation and rail to trucking and maritime operations. By highlighting these in-demand jobs, the transport occupation category seeks to attract skilled professionals who can donate to Canada’s thriving transportation industry.

Allocation of Additional Points

To give due importance to transport careers, IRCC has implemented measures to allocate additional points within the CRS for candidates with work experience in relevant occupations. These additional points serve as a competitive advantage, enhancing the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. By providing an incentive for candidates in the transport sector, IRCC aims to address labor market needs and fill critical gaps in the Canadian workforce.

Selection Procedure for Express Entry Category-Based Rounds of Invitation
IRCC will send invitations to candidates in category-based draws to apply for permanent residence if they are eligible for a specific category. This criterion includes:

• Work experience in a detailed TEER category of the National Occupational Classification (NOC)
• Language ability in either English or French
• Education

Enhancing Career Prospects and Settlement Opportunities

By prioritizing transport careers, IRCC facilitates the entry of skilled professionals into Canada’s labor market. Successful candidates can contribute their expertise to the transport sector, driving efficiency and productivity. Additionally, the Express Entry system provides avenues for permanent residence, granting candidates the opportunity to settle in Canada, build a fulfilling life, and enjoy the benefits of Canadian society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the prioritization of transport careers in Express Entry category-based draws demonstrates IRCC’s commitment to addressing labor market needs and supporting Canada’s economic growth. By allocating additional CRS points and collaborating with industry stakeholders, IRCC provides enhanced opportunities for skilled professionals in the transport sector to obtain permanent residence in Canada. With our in-depth knowledge of the system, We can help you in optimizing your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, prepare a strong application, and stay updated with the latest program needs. Book a free consultation with Idea Immigration to take the first step toward your Canadian journey!