Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is considering making changes to the categories used in Express Entry category-based draws for 2025. This initiative follows IRCC's recent survey to gather opinions from its stakeholders.
IRCC has always had a collaborative approach toward its stakeholders in shaping its immigration policies. It develops the annual Immigration Levels Plan by consulting with provinces and territories, stakeholder organizations, and the public.
All these initiatives ensure that it includes the needs and priorities of immigrants and Canadian society. Currently, the 2024 consultation for the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan is underway, including a survey that invites feedback on proposed immigration targets.
IRCC has shared a survey outlining the economic priorities and categories under consideration for 2025
1. Addressing Long-Term Labour Market Shortages
Targets specific occupations in healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, agriculture, agri-food, and education
2. Supporting Economic Growth Through Francophone Immigration
To encourage Francophone immigration outside of Quebec for economic growth.
3. Meeting Emerging Labour Needs
Focus on vital industries and sectors with emerging labour shortages, such as natural resources, new technologies, and applied sciences.
Job Titles in the Education Sector
IRCC also plans to focus beyond the education sector and consider occupations in natural resources, new technologies, and applied sciences. The survey highlights vital industries such as clean/green technology, quantum computing, biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and critical mineral extraction for electric vehicle battery production.
While the survey suggests IRCC is unlikely to remove any categories in 2025, the number of occupations listed under each category might change. The survey does not hint at whether these adjustments will happen.
One focus area in the survey was the effectiveness of targeting skilled workers with strong French language skills. However, IRCC aims to boost Francophone immigration outside Quebec to 8% by 2026, so it's improbable that French language requirements will drop from the categories. We will keep you updated on any further changes, please follow our blogs to stay updated.
If your occupation is likely to appear in the 2025 categories, it will be a wise decision to start preparing now. Entering the Express Entry pool early can give you an edge, especially if new categories are popular. Early entries benefit from the tie-breaking rule, where candidates with the same CRS score are ranked by the date they entered the pool, prioritizing those with older profiles. So, acting now can give you a head start and boost your chances for the future. You may consult ImmiLaw Global for expert guidance regarding creating Express Entry profiles and navigating other immigration processes.
The survey indicates that IRCC is considering a shift in focus towards temporary residents already in Canada. Instead of primarily recruiting new skilled workers from abroad, they might combine category-based draws with the Canadian Experience Class program requirements.
If IRCC moves forward with this step, then this could be an excellent opportunity for those currently in Canada, including individuals on temporary permits like students and foreign workers. They may benefit from enhanced chances in the Express Entry system.
ImmiLaw Global is ready to provide comprehensive assistance in navigating the various immigration paths available for skilled workers in different countries. From creating Express Entry profiles to Provincial Nominee Programs, work permits, and visa processes, we offer guidance tailored to individual needs.
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