Express Entry Draws: STEM Occupations Invited for Permanent Residence
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently conducted a second round of Express Entry invitations, targeting candidates eligible for category-based selection in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations. This draw aimed to attract skilled newcomers with STEM expertise and fill key positions that contribute to Canada’s economic growth and technological advancement.
In this round, a total of 500 candidates were invited to apply for permanent residence. To be eligible, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 486. The CRS score is calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
This draw follows the announcement made by IRCC last week, where they revealed their plans to conduct the first-ever category-based selection Express Entry draw specifically for individuals in STEM professions. The previous category-based draw, held on June 28, targeted healthcare workers, inviting 500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 476. This was the lowest CRS score requirement in any Express Entry draw so far in 2023.
IRCC has also confirmed that there will be another round of invitations this week, specifically targeting 1,500 healthcare workers for permanent residence. These initiatives reflect Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled professionals in high-demand sectors to address labor market needs and support the country’s healthcare system.
Furthermore, on July 4, IRCC surprised candidates with an all-program draw, inviting 700 individuals from the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. The minimum CRS score requirement for this draw was set at 511.
The eligible occupations under the STEM draw encompass a wide range of professions. Some of the included occupations are architects, engineering managers, computer engineers, data scientists, software developers, cybersecurity specialists, and web designers, among others. By prioritizing candidates with expertise in these fields, Canada aims to meet the growing demand for talent and facilitate technological innovation across various industries.
occupations under the STEM draw include:
Architects
Architecture and science managers
Business systems specialists
Civil Engineers
Computer and information systems managers
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
Computer systems developers and programmers
Cybersecurity specialists
Data scientists
Database analysts and data administrators
Electrical and electronics engineers
Engineering managers
Industrial and manufacturing engineers
Information systems specialists
Land surveyors
Landscape Architects
Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries
Metallurgical and materials engineers
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers
Software developers and programmers
Software engineers and designers
Urban and land use planners
Web designers
Web developers and programmers
In summary, the recent Express Entry draws conducted by IRCC have showcased Canada’s focus on attracting skilled individuals in STEM occupations and healthcare professions. These initiatives aim to address labor market needs, contribute to economic growth, and provide eligible candidates with opportunities to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
