Innovation, Science and Industry Minister of Canada, Francois-Philippe Champagne announced the first STEM round for category-based selection under the Express Entry Route. It will open in the week of July 5.
This draw particularly emphasises STEM-experienced candidates, including software developers and programmers, data scientists, statisticians, mathematicians, actuaries, and electrical and electronic engineers.
The immigration agency of Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that it will boost the technology and science sector and bring in skilled talents needed by businesses to innovate and achieve the growth potential.
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Earlier a category-based selection for the Express Entry Program was announced through which Indians can gain permanent residence in Canada. India tops the list as a source of immigrants under the Express Route in Canada. 50,841 invites were distributed in 2020 for Permanent Residence which constitutes 47% of the total invites.
This announcement comes in the wake of the Canadian government’s attempt to address the challenges of a STEM-related workforce and is a continuation of the Tech Talent Attraction Strategy.
Sean Fraser, the immigration minister, stated that the ability of Canada to attract top talents from around the world is crucial to maintain its leadership in STEM. He was thrilled to introduce this STEM category-based selection round, which will improve STEM professionals' access to permanent residency.
Key sectors in Canada are facing a shortage of labours and immigration will fill in those shortages. The Express Entry system is now streamlined for individuals with experience in critical fields. Along with general invitation rounds, these selection rounds based on categories will continue throughout the year and more information on the same will be out consequently.
On June 27, IRCC invited 4,800 candidates with a minimum of 486 points on Comprehensive Ranking Systems (CRS). Previously, 4,800 candidates were invited on June 8.
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The other categories besides STEM that are chosen for 2023 are French language proficiency, healthcare, trade, transport, agriculture and agri-food. 500 invites were issued under the healthcare sector.
To qualify for an ITA, candidates must also be in the Express Entry pool and have work experience in one of the listed occupations. Even if category-based selection has opened up new possibilities, having a strong CRS score is still essential. The likelihood of receiving an ITA increases for applicants with the best scores.
Source: Times of India, Hindustan Times
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