Canada Introduces Category-Based Selection for Skilled Transport Workers in Express Entry
On September 18, 2023, In a move aimed at addressing labour shortages and boosting economic growth, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has unveiled a groundbreaking change to the Express Entry system. The program now incorporates category-based selection, with a specific focus on attracting candidates with work experience in the transport sector.
Key Points:
First of Its Kind: This marks the first-ever category-based selection round targeting candidates with expertise in the transport sector.
Skilled Talent in Transport: The new approach aims to draw skilled professionals in occupations such as commercial truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers to meet the growing demand for their expertise nationwide.
Streamlined Pathway: Canada’s Express Entry system now offers a streamlined and efficient pathway for individuals with critical skills in the transport industry.
Economic Growth: By prioritizing transport workers, Canada aims to fill vital positions that contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth and overall development.
Ongoing Selection Rounds: Category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, running alongside general and program-specific invitation rounds.
Important things to consider:
Express Entry is Canada’s premier application management system for those seeking permanent immigration through various programs.
This initiative is a result of changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, allowing for the selection of immigrants based on specific attributes aligned with economic priorities.
Category-based selection was introduced following consultations with stakeholders, provincial partners, and the public to meet labour market needs.
Quebec maintains its own immigration levels under the Canada–Québec Accord.
This innovative approach to immigration underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting top global talent and addressing critical labour shortages in the transport sector.
The introduction of this novel category is designed to entice skilled professionals in transportation-related fields, including:
Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors
Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
Railway carmen/women
Managers in transportation
Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators
Engineer officers, water transport
Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors
Transport truck drivers
Deck officers, water transport
Air traffic controllers and related occupations
Check Your Eligiblity
What are the qualifications needed for the transport occupations category?
To qualify for the transport occupations category, you need to fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
Express Entry Program Eligibility: You must meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the Express Entry programs, which include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Recent Work Experience: Within the last three years, you should have acquired a minimum of six months of continuous work experience in one of the occupations listed in this category.
Compliance with Round Instructions: You must satisfy all the additional requirements specified in the instructions for the specific round of invitations.