The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will start conducting Express Entry draws in 2023 based on labour market goals in the first quarter of 2023, according to the latest reports. Bill C-19, which was passed recently, allows the immigration minister of Canada to invite Express Entry candidates based on criteria that support the economic needs of various regions. So, in the Express Entry draws, IRCC will invite candidates based on their occupation, language, educational qualifications etc., rather than their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The Bill also requires the minister to engage in a public consultation process and report the draw details, including economic goals, to the parliament annually.
Changes in Canada Express Entry draws in 2023
Sean Fraser, the Immigration Minister of Canada, was quoted as saying that the changes in Express Entry system are being introduced for allowing the IRCC to invite candidates based on in-demand skills and qualifications. Canada wants to change Express Entry into a system which helps the country choose people who match perfectly to the needs of the Canadian economy.
Until now, the IRCC was not able to choose Express Entry candidates based on their occupation, language ability and educational credential. At the same time, PNPs have always had more specific criteria in selecting candidates based on their labour market needs. But the candidates need to complete a separate application process to receive a provincial nomination.
More transparency in Express Entry selection process
At the same time, the Minister has acknowledged the need for a transparent selection process through Express Entry. Many experts had criticized the proposed change in Express Entry, saying that it would allow special interest groups to lobby the government to invite a certain type of Express Entry candidates. In order to address this concern, an amendment was introduced to the bill, where the minister is required to hold public consultation with stakeholders to get information on how to conduct draws to support an economic goal.
It was on July 6, the IRCC conducted the first all-program Express Entry draw since December 2020. The draw invited a total of 1500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 557. The next Express Entry draw in 2023 is expected to take place on July 20.
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