Canada’s Targeted Express Entry Draws: List Of Eligible NOC Codes

Canada’s Express Entry system, which facilitates the immigration of skilled workers, has recently undergone significant changes with the introduction of targeted Express Entry draws. These draws focus on specific in-demand occupations, allowing professionals with experience in key industries to receive faster invitations for permanent residency. The primary goal is to address labor shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, technology, and agriculture, thereby strengthening Canada's economy. Immigration Minister has provided a comprehensive list of National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes for professions eligible under these new targeted draws. This article will outline the list of eligible NOC codes, provide key details about eligibility, and explain how these changes could affect your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Targeted Express Entry Draw
2. List of Eligible National Occupational Classification (NOC) Codes

• Healthcare Occupation
• STEM Occupation
• Trade Occupation
• Transport Occupation
• Agriculture and agri-food Occupation

3. Eligibility Criteria for Targeted Express Entry Draw
4. How Targeted Express Entry Affects CRS Scores
5. Conclusion
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Overview of Targeted Express Entry Draw

The targeted Express Entry draws were introduced in 2023 to streamline immigration for candidates with work experience in high-demand sectors. Instead of relying solely on CRS scores, the new system prioritizes specific occupations, allowing the government to meet the growing need for skilled workers in particular industries. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate at least 6 months of continuous work experience in the past three years in one of the eligible occupations.

List of Eligible National Occupational Classification (NOC) Codes

Healthcare Occupations

With a growing need for healthcare professionals, these occupations are at the forefront of the new draws.

This list also includes specialists such as Veterinarians (NOC 31103), Medical Sonographers (NOC 32122), and Chiropractors (NOC 31201).

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations

The STEM sector remains pivotal in driving innovation. Canada seeks professionals in this domain to contribute to technological advancements:

Trade Occupations

Skilled trades people are highly sought after, with positions like:

Transport Occupation

Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations

Eligibility Criteria for Targeted Express Entry Draw

To qualify for a targeted Express Entry draw, candidates must meet the following conditions:

1. Work Experience: A minimum of 6 months of continuous work experience within the last three years in one of the eligible NOC occupations listed above.
2. General Express Entry Requirements: Applicants should have a year (1,560 hours) of work experience in TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 to qualify under any Express Entry program.
3. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS): The candidate must have an active Express Entry profile and meet the CRS cutoff score.

How Targeted Express Entry Affects CRS Scores

The targeted Express Entry draws prioritize work experience in specific in-demand occupations. This means that candidates with work experience in one of the eligible occupations might see the CRS cutoff score drop, providing them with a higher chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Conversely, profiles not included in these targeted draws may face a higher CRS cutoff score.

Conclusion

Canada’s targeted Express Entry draws mark a pivotal shift in the country's immigration strategy, addressing labor shortages in crucial sectors like healthcare, STEM, and trades. If you have experience in any of the eligible NOC occupations, now is the time to ensure your Express Entry profile is up to date, as this new system could fast-track your journey toward permanent residency in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How much work experience do I need to qualify for targeted draws?

Ans: You need at least 6 months of continuous work experience in the last 3 years in one of the eligible NOC occupations.

Q2. Will the CRS score decrease for candidates in targeted draws?

Ans: Yes, CRS scores are expected to drop for candidates with experience in targeted occupations, while they may increase for others.

Q3. What happens if my occupation is not on the targeted list?

Ans: You will still be eligible for regular Express Entry draws, but the CRS cutoff score might be higher for non-targeted occupations.

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