Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws – The Complete Guide
The Express Entry process has become well-known for skilled individuals looking to move to Canada. Under this system, candidates for Canadian permanent residency are chosen through random drawings held regularly by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Express Entry Category Based Selection draws are added to the regular drawings and are targeted at specific categories or criteria to meet the country’s labour market demands. The requirements and who may apply, and how to apply for Express Entry Category-Based Selection Draws will all be covered in this article.
What are Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws?
The periodic drawings held by the IRCC under the Express Entry system are known as express entry category based selection draws. They are used to choose individuals from the pool of candidates based on specified criteria or categories. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) are three economic immigration programs that accept applications through the points-based Express Entry system.
A candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is determined in a regular Express Entry draw based on the candidate’s age, education, job experience, language ability, and other considerations. The top applicants are given invitations through regular Express Entry draws to submit applications for Canadian permanent residency.
On the other hand, express Entry Category Based Selection draws to look for particular categories or criteria that the IRCC lays forth. Candidates with specific talents, jobs, or other qualifications in great demand in Canada may be the focus of these draws. For instance, category-based selection attracts target applicants with expertise in a specific field, like nurses, IT specialists, or engineers. Only those who fulfil the requirements are asked to submit permanent residency applications.
The Canadian government can address labour market demands and prioritize people with unique talents or credentials in line with the needs of the nation’s economy through these category-based draws. They give applicants in the Express Entry pool who fulfil the specified requirements the chance to be invited to apply for permanent residence.
It’s important to remember that over time, depending on the changing demands of the Canadian labour market and immigration laws, the particular requirements and classification for Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws may change. For the most recent information on the group and requirements for these drawings, it is thus advised to contact the official IRCC website or an expert RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant).
Whar are the Eligibility Criteria for category based selection?
You must first meet the Express Entry system’s general requirements to be eligible for category based selection draws. This involves qualifying for three economic immigration programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability are frequently required qualifications for these programs.
Candidates must fulfil the particular conditions listed for the category-based draw they are interested in in addition to the overall Express Entry requirements. Depending on Canada’s immigration policies and the demands of the job market at the time, these standards may change. For instance, a  category based draws express entry may focus on individuals with expertise in a particular field or specific, in-demand abilities. To understand the detailed requirements for each draw, it is crucial to remain current on the most recent information provided by the IRCC.
Which category has the most jobs?
Depending on the Canadian labour market needs , the group with the most employment in the Express Entry system may change over time. However, several professions and industries have traditionally seen constant high demand. These in-demand industries frequently present skilled workers with many employment options. In the past, there have been several enormous job opportunities in the following categories:
1-Information Technology (IT) Professionals:
 IT specialists, including software developers, computer programmers, system analysts, and network administrators, are in great demand due to the booming digital and technological sectors. Canada has been actively hiring qualified IT specialists to fulfil the needs of its developing tech sector.
2-Healthcare Workers
Due to the country’s ageing population, healthcare workers are always needed in Canada. There has been a demand for physicians, nurses, chemists, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals all around the nation. In particular, registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) have constantly been in demand.
3-Engineers
Engineers are essential in various fields, including software, mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Canada always needs engineers to help with industry, energy, infrastructure, and technology improvements.
4-Skilled Tradespeople:
Under the Express Entry system, the Federal Skilled Trades Programme focuses on people with specific skilled trade jobs. There is a great need for construction managers, plumbers, electricians, welders, and carpenters in Canada.
5-Business and Finance Professionals
In Canada’s business community, finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, and management experts are in high demand. All industries need qualified personnel to manage their operations, financial planning, and strategic decision-making.
6-Teaching and Education
Educators have been in high demand in Canada, particularly those with degrees in math, physics, and French language instruction. Opportunities for skilled teachers are available in various provinces and territories, focusing on delivering high-quality education.
It’s crucial to remember that, within Canada, demand for particular jobs might differ by location and province. Due to their native industries and economic interests, some provinces may have a greater need for specific vocations. When considering career chances inside the Express Entry system, it is essential to investigate various provinces’ labour market trends and unique requirements.
Category Name | Job Title(s) | NOC Number |
Agriculture and agri-food occupations | Butchers – retail and wholesale | 63201 |
Agriculture and agri-food occupations | Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors | 82030 |
Agriculture and agri-food occupations | Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services | 82031 |
Transport occupations | Managers in transportation | 70020 |
Transport occupations | Railway carmen/women | 72403 |
Transport occupations | Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors | 72404 |
Transport occupations | Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors | 72600 |
Transport occupations | Air traffic controllers and related occupations | 72601 |
Transport occupations | Deck officers, water transport | 72602 |
Transport occupations | Engineer officers, water transport | 72603 |
Transport occupations | Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators | 72604 |
Transport occupations | Transport truck drivers | 73300 |
Transport occupations | Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors | 93200 |
Trade occupations | Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers | 72014 |
Trade occupations | Welders and related machine operators | 72106 |
Trade occupations | Electricians (except industrial and power system) | 72200 |
Trade occupations | Plumbers | 72300 |
Trade occupations | Carpenters | 72310 |
Trade occupations | Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics | 72400 |
Trade occupations | Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics | 72402 |
Trade occupations | Machine fitters | 72405 |
Trade occupations | Elevator constructors and mechanics | 72406 |
Trade occupations | Residential and commercial installers and servicers | 73200 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Engineering managers | 20010 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Architecture and science managers | 20011 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Computer and information systems managers | 20012 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Architects | 21200 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Landscape architects | 21201 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Urban and land use planners | 21202 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Land surveyors | 21203 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries | 21210 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Data scientists | 21211 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Cybersecurity specialists | 21220 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Business systems specialists | 21221 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Information systems specialists | 21222 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Database analysts and data administrators | 21223 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Computer systems developers and programmers | 21230 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Software engineers and designers | 21231 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Software developers and programmers | 21232 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Web designers | 21233 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Web developers and programmers | 21234 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Civil engineers | 21300 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Electrical and electronics engineers | 21310 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) | 21311 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Industrial and manufacturing engineers | 21321 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Metallurgical and materials engineers | 21322 |
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations | Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers | 41400 |
Healthcare occupations | Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine | 31100 |
Healthcare occupations | Specialists in surgery | 31101 |
Healthcare occupations | General practitioners and family physicians | 31102 |
Healthcare occupations | Veterinarians | 31103 |
Healthcare occupations | Dentists | 31110 |
Healthcare occupations | Optometrists | 31111 |
Healthcare occupations | Audiologists and speech-language pathologists | 31112 |
Healthcare occupations | Dietitians and nutritionists | 31121 |
Healthcare occupations | Psychologists | 31200 |
Healthcare occupations | Chiropractors | 31201 |
Healthcare occupations | Physiotherapists | 31202 |
Healthcare occupations | Occupational therapists | 31203 |
Healthcare occupations | Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment | 31204 |
Healthcare occupations | Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating | 31209 |
Healthcare occupations | Nursing coordinators and supervisors | 31300 |
Healthcare occupations | Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses | 31301 |
Healthcare occupations | Nurse practitioners | 31302 |
Healthcare occupations | Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals | 31303 |
Healthcare occupations | Licensed practical nurses | 32101 |
Healthcare occupations | Paramedical occupations | 32102 |
Healthcare occupations | Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists | 32103 |
Healthcare occupations | Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment | 32109 |
Healthcare occupations | Medical laboratory technologists | 32120 |
Healthcare occupations | Medical radiation technologists | 32121 |
Healthcare occupations | Medical sonographers | 32122 |
Healthcare occupations | Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists | 32200 |
Healthcare occupations | Massage therapists | 32201 |
Healthcare occupations | Other practitioners of natural healing | 32209 |
Healthcare occupations | Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations | 33101 |
Healthcare occupations | Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates | 33102 |
Healthcare occupations | Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants | 33103 |
Healthcare occupations | Other assisting occupations in support of health services | 33109 |
Healthcare occupations | Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies | 41301 |
Healthcare occupations | Educational counsellors | 41320 |
Healthcare occupations | Instructors of persons with disabilities | 42203 |
Who Can Apply for Express Entry Job Categories?
Candidates who match the requirements for the category-based draw and are already in the Express Entry pool may apply. People who have submitted an Express Entry profile outlining their credentials, job experience, education, language skills, and other pertinent data make up the Express Entry pool. You must create an Express Entry profile if needed for any Express Entry Category based draw.
It’s important to remember that some category-based draws could only be open to applicants who have obtained a legitimate employment offer from a Canadian company or have been nominated by their province under the Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP). Others may seek applicants with particular expertise or credentials, such as those in the medical field, technology, or engineering. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully review the requirements for each Express Entry category based draw to determine if you are eligible to apply.
How to Apply for Category-Based Selection?
To apply for Express Entry Category-Based Selection Draws, follow these steps:
1-Create an Express Entry Profile
Make an online application profile on the official IRCC website if needed. Give complete and current information about your education, work experience, language skills, and other relevant qualifications.
2-Determine Eligibility for Category-Based Draws
Keep up with the precise standards and classifications for category based draws. Check the IRCC website frequently or speak with an immigration specialist to determine whether you qualify for any forthcoming drawings.
3-Increase Your CRS Score
To be invited to apply, you must have a specific Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Increase your CRS score by improving your language ability, education, and work history and securing a legitimate employment offer or a provincial nomination.
4-Wait for Category-Based Draws Express Entry
After determining your eligibility and entering the Express Entry pool, you must wait for a Express Entry Category based draw. The IRCC frequently holds these draws, and if you fulfil the requirements for a particular draw, you can receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
5-Submit Your Application
If you accept an invitation, gather all the paperwork and data needed to apply for permanent residency. Ensure all records are correct, comprehensive, and satisfy the criteria by following the IRCC’s guidelines.
6-Pay the application fees
The system will list the costs you must pay when you complete the online form and upload your supporting documentation. The processing fees for you and your family, the right to permanent residency, and the biometrics cost are all included on this list. When you submit your application, you must, at the very least, pay your processing fees. Paying all your fees, including the one for the right of permanent residence, will avoid any possible delays.
Will the CRS still be a factor for the Express Entry Job Classification?
Yes, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score would still be considered for Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws. The CRS is a points-based system that ranks applicants in the Express Entry pool according to several criteria, including age, education, employment history, language ability, and adaptability.
The CRS score will continue to be a factor in determining which applicants within those classifications will receive invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence, even if Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws focus on specific categories or criteria. Candidates must still have a competitive CRS score to boost their chances of being invited, even if they match the requirements for a particular category-based draw.
It’s crucial to remember that the particular standards and point distribution within the CRS might change for various category-based draws. The selection procedure may award extra points for unique credentials or abilities needed in a given group or prioritize certain variables. To raise their CRS scores in the context of the category based draw they are interested in, applicants must carefully analyze the criteria and modify their profiles accordingly.
In conclusion, the CRS score is significant in selecting who receives invitations to apply for Canadian permanent residence, even while Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws prioritize specific group or criteria. Candidates must maintain a competitive CRS score to increase their chances of getting chosen in these draws.
What to do if my occupation is off the list?
You are still eligible for the Express Entry system and Canadian permanent residency even if your profession is not among those targeted for the Express Entry Category Based Selection Draws. You can investigate alternate routes and choices. You can follow the instructions listed below::
1-Find Out If You're Eligible for Other Programs
Verify if your line of work qualifies for the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Programme, or Federal Skilled Trades Programme. These programmes take a wide variety of jobs into account and have more flexible qualifying requirements. If you fulfil the requirements for these programs, you can construct an Express Entry profile under your findings.
2-Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
The provinces and territories in Canada have their immigration schemes called Provincial Nominee Programs. These programs may have different occupation lists or eligibility requirements than the federal Express Entry system since they focus on particular labour market needs. Consider filing for a provincial nomination, which can improve your CRS score and raise your chances of being called to apply for permanent residency. Research PNPs that match your profession or skill set.
3-Enhance Your Skills or Education
If your profession is not currently in high demand, consider updating your education or abilities to match those occupations in demand in Canada. This can entail obtaining new credentials, certificates, or appropriate job experience in a related industry. Your chances of being accepted into the subsequent category based draws or other immigration programmes may rise if you develop your talents.
4-Consider Temporary Work Permits
You can look into opportunities for a temporary work permit if you’re interested in working in Canada and eventually switch to permanent residency. Employers in Canada can hire foreign employees for particular job positions under the International Mobility Programme and Temporary Foreign Worker Programme. You could qualify for various immigration programmes or receive a provincial nomination by accumulating work experience in Canada.
5-Seek Professional Advice
An immigration consultant (RCIC) or a certified immigration consultant can offer sage advice for your unique circumstances. They may evaluate your qualifications, look into other routes, and advise you on the best course of action in light of the current immigration laws and labour market dynamics.
Remember that as the Canadian immigration system is dynamic, occupation listings and categories are subject to change. It’s critical to remain up to speed on developments and potential possibilities. Check the official IRCC website frequently and other reliable sources to stay abreast of any modifications that could affect your ability to immigrate to Canada or your available alternatives.
How Can Arnika Visa Help With Express Entry Application?
A Regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) can assist you with the Express Entry Canada process by providing expert guidance and support. Our RCIC can also provide comprehensive assistance throughout the Express Entry Canada process. We can help assess your eligibility, create a personalized immigration strategy, prepare and review your application, and ensure all necessary documents are submitted accurately and on time. They offer expert advice on eligibility criteria, help you create a strong profile, and guide you in selecting the most suitable immigration program.
At Arnika Visa, we assist you with document preparation, ensuring all forms and supporting documents are accurate and complete. Additionally, we keep track of changing immigration policies, maximizing your chances of success. Our expertise and experience can save you time, minimize errors, and enhance your overall application, increasing your prospects of obtaining Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry.
If you follow our guidelines, you will have a greater chance of getting your visa approved than if you applied for it independently. The first step in learning how the RCIC can assist you is to fill out the online assessment form, which asks for details about your career, education, and personal history.
