New Selection Categories For Express Entry

The first category-based Express Entry draw is expected to take place this summer.

These draws will focus on candidates who have:
- A strong French language proficiency;
or work experience in the following fields:
- Healthcare science,
- Technology,
- Engineering,
- Mathematics (STEM) professions trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors transport agriculture and agri-food

This is the first time Canada has introduced category-based selection for its flagship Express Entry system.

Canada moved to add category-based selection in an effort to make Express Entry more responsive to Canada’s labour market.
Before category-based Express Entry draws, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) could only invite candidates based on Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and program type—which includes the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class and part of the Provincial Nominee Program. Canada will continue to hold all-program, and program-specific draws alongside category-based draws.