Canada enhanced the category-based Express Entry selection process by holding the first-ever draw for trade occupations, inviting 1,500 candidates for permanent residency.
On August 3, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) began selecting Express Entry profiles for trade professionals under its Category-based Express Entry draws. The Category-based Express Entry round of invitations elected 1,500 candidates having minimum CRS scores of 388 points and above.
The trade category Express Entry draw targeted the following trade occupations under 2021 NOC codes:
- NOC code 72310 – Carpenters
- NOC code 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
- NOC code 72014 – Contractors and other construction trades
- NOC code 72200 – Electricians
- NOC code 72406 – Elevator constructors and mechanics
- NOC code 72402 – Heating, refrigeration, and AC mechanics
- NOC code 72405 – Machine fitters
- NOC code 72300 – Plumbers
- NOC code 73200 – Residential and commercial installers and servicers
- NOC code 72106 – Welders and related machine operators
At least six months of skilled work experience in trade occupations is necessary to qualify for the trades category-based Express Entry draw. The Express Entry mandates a minimum of one year of skilled work experience for all programs.
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) resumed the Express Entry draws this week following almost three weeks of no rounds of invitations. The week witnessed two category-based draws and all-programs Express Entry.
