IRCC holds first-ever Express Entry STEM draw

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a second round of Express Entry invitations this week, targeting candidates eligible for category-based selection in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations. A total of 500 candidates were invited, each requiring a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 486. This draw was anticipated following the IRCC's previous announcement that the first-ever category-based selection draw for individuals in STEM professions would be held this week.

Additionally, IRCC confirmed it would be issuing another round of invitations to 1,500 healthcare workers, inviting them to apply for permanent residence. In the previous category-based draw on June 28, 500 healthcare workers were invited with a minimum CRS score of 476, the lowest score seen in any Express Entry draw in 2023 so far.

In an unexpected draw on July 4, IRCC issued invitations to 700 candidates in an all-program draw, requiring a minimum CRS score of 511. All-program draws consider Express Entry candidates in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

By prioritizing skilled newcomers with STEM experience, Canada aims to address the increasing demand for talent and fill crucial positions that contribute to the nation's economic growth and technological advancements. Eligible occupations under the STEM draw include architects, business systems specialists, civil engineers, computer engineers, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, electrical and electronics engineers, software developers, and many others.

The new category-based selection criteria for Express Entry draws were finalized by IRCC based on labor market projections, discussions with various stakeholders, provincial and territorial governments, as well as IRCC partners. These categories include healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transportation, agriculture and agri-food, and candidates with strong French-language proficiency.

Category-based selection draws have been anticipated since June 2022 when the Government of Canada introduced changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, allowing for the selection of immigrants based on key attributes that align with Canada's economic priorities, such as specific work experience to address labor market gaps or French language proficiency.