Express Entry rounds of invitations: Category-based selection

On May 31, 2023 IRCC announced the launch of new process of inviting candidates in Express Entry.

 In order to align with Canada’s economic objectives, IRCC has decided to implement Category-based rounds to invite highly ranked candidates. These rounds will complement the existing general and program-specific rounds. Furthermore, IRCC will continue to invite candidates with provincial or territorial nominations through both general rounds and those specific to the Provincial Nominee Program.

 The categories will be selected based on the

• • labour market information and projections
  • input we received from our partners, including provinces and territories, and stakeholders across the country.

Categories chosen for 2023:

1. 1. French-language proficiency
   2. Healthcare occupations
   3. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
   4. Trade occupations
   5. Transport occupations
   6. Agriculture and agri-food occupations

In addition to some basic requirements, candidates must meet all of the requirements for that round. Category wise basic requirements are given below:

General eligibility for the French-language proficiency category

• have French-language test results that show a minimum score of 7 in all 4 language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens
• meet all of the requirements in the instructions for that round

General eligibility for other occupation category

• have accumulated, within the past 3 years, at least 6 months of continuous work experience (in Canada or abroad) in a single occupation listed in the table below