Canada’s Express Entry Welcomes Skilled Trades Workers
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Streamlined Pathway for Skilled Trades
Canada’s Express Entry system is now optimized to efficiently invite individuals with critical skills in the trades. This initiative targets skilled newcomers to fulfill Canada’s growing demand for talent, which is vital for economic progress.
On May 31, the Honourable Sean Fraser announced changes to Express Entry through category-based selection. These changes assist in addressing labor shortages by inviting candidates with specific work experience or French language proficiency to apply for permanent residency.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller declared the first trades round for category-based selection will open this week. This round focuses on trades like carpentry, plumbing, and welding, bolstering the construction sector nationwide.
Significance of Trades Expertise
Category-based selection underscores Canada’s dedication to attracting global talent. The need for skilled tradespeople is critical to supporting the economy. These selection rounds will persist throughout the year, alongside general invitation rounds, with more details forthcoming.
Ministerial Perspective
“Addressing the shortage of skilled trades workers is crucial. This initiative helps the construction sector find and sustain necessary workers. I look forward to welcoming more of these talented individuals to Canada.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts About Express Entry
- Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for managing applications for permanent residency through programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program.
- In June 2022, amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act allowed for selecting immigrants based on attributes supporting economic goals, like specific work experience or French proficiency.
- The categories were formed after consultations with provincial partners, stakeholders, and public input, aligning with labor market needs. A complete list of eligible jobs for the new categories is available online.
- Under the Canada–Québec Accord, Quebec sets its immigration levels. From 2018 to 2022, federal high skilled programs accounted for 34% to 40% of French-speaking admissions outside Quebec.
Related Information
- New process to welcome skilled newcomers with priority job experience
- Express Entry – Category-based selection
- “What we heard” report
- Francophone Immigration Strategy
Contact Information
Contacts for media only:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Express Entry system?
Canada’s Express Entry system is a primary method for managing applications for permanent residency through programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program.
What changes were made to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in 2022?
In 2022, changes were introduced to allow selection based on specific work experience or knowledge of French, aligning with Canada’s economic priorities.
Who determines the categories for Express Entry?
Categories are determined through consultations with provincial and territorial partners, stakeholders, and public input, focusing on labor market needs.
Meta Description: Discover how Canada’s Express Entry system now prioritizes skilled trades workers, offering new opportunities for permanent residency and economic growth.
