Canada’s Express Entry System Targets Skilled Trades, Health, and Tech Professionals in Latest Round of Invitations

Posted 08/17/2023

On August 15, 2023, a strategic move within Canada’s immigration framework was unveiled, as targeted invitations were extended to potential candidates within the Expression of Interest system pool. These invitations hold the potential to be a game-changer for those who qualify for the coveted Employer Job Offer: International Student stream. This development comes as part of Canada’s commitment to attract and retain skilled individuals in various sectors, including skilled trades, health, and technology.

Focusing on Skilled Trades Occupations

Candidates who have demonstrated their proficiency in skilled trades have received a distinct spotlight in this round of invitations. Specifically, those who secured a score of 61 and above and hold a job offer falling within a spectrum of National Occupational Codes (NOCs) have been extended an invitation. These NOCs encompass a diverse range of trades, such as drafting technologists, user support technicians, information systems testing technicians, and more. This move aligns with Canada’s continuous efforts to bolster its workforce in areas critical to economic growth and development.

Embracing Health Professionals

The health sector, undeniably one of the cornerstones of any society, has also been underscored in this round of invitations. Candidates who demonstrated their capabilities with a score of 61 and above, coupled with a job offer in specific NOCs, have been extended a notable opportunity. These NOCs encompass a wide array of health professions, including managers in health care, specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine, dentists, registered nurses, and many others. This focus on health professionals not only reflects Canada’s dedication to its healthcare system but also acknowledges the valuable contributions of individuals in this sector.

Candidates only received an invitation if they had a score of 61 and above, and a job offer in one of the national occupational codes (NOC) below:

FULL DETAILS FOR THE NOCs on the official government website.

NOC 30010 – Managers in health care
NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
NOC 31101 – Specialists in surgery
NOC 31102 – General practitioners and family physicians
NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
NOC 31110 – Dentists
NOC 31111 – Optometrists
NOC 31112 – Audiologists and speech-language pathologists
NOC 31120 – Pharmacists
NOC 31121 – Dietitians and nutritionists
NOC 31201 – Chiropractors
NOC 31202 – Physiotherapists
NOC 31203 – Occupational therapists
NOC 31204 – Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
NOC 31209 – Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating
NOC 31300 – Nursing coordinators and supervisors
NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
NOC 31302 – Nurse practitioners
NOC 31303 – Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals
NOC 32100 – Opticians
NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
NOC 32102 – Paramedical occupations
NOC 32103 – Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
NOC 32104 – Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians
NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
NOC 32110 – Denturists
NOC 32111 – Dental hygienists and dental therapists
NOC 32112 – Dental technologists and technicians
NOC 32120 – Medical laboratory technologists
NOC 32121 – Medical radiation technologists
NOC 32122 – Medical sonographers
NOC 32123 – Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists
NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
NOC 32129 – Other medical technologists and technicians
NOC 32200 – Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists
NOC 32201 – Massage therapists
NOC 32209 – Other practitioners of natural healing
NOC 33100 – Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
NOC 33101 – Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations
NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
NOC 33103 – Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services

Tech Talents Are Prioritized

The technological landscape, which plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and progress, has not been overlooked. Candidates who secured a score of 61 and above and possess a job offer in designated NOCs were granted invitations. The selected NOCs in this category encompass computer and information systems managers, data scientists, software engineers, web developers, and other roles vital for the tech industry’s advancement.

A Streamlined Application Process

The application process for these targeted invitations has been streamlined for the convenience of the applicants. Those who received invitations are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria, ensure they have the required documents, and log in to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) e-Filing Portal. It’s noteworthy that the new application file number differs from the Expression of Interest (EOI) file number, which is essential for distinguishing between the two stages of the process.

Canada’s Bold Immigration Vision

This latest move signifies Canada’s proactive stance in shaping its future by curating a skilled and diverse workforce. The selection of candidates based on specific skills and qualifications underlines Canada’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and societal well-being. With an eye on innovation, health, and technical prowess, these targeted invitations not only offer opportunities to skilled individuals but also set a precedent for Canada’s enduring pursuit of excellence and progress.