Canadian authorities propose new changes to Express Entry rules from 2023

The Canadian authorities have decided to modify its Express Entry system with the hopes of combating the persisting labor shortage following the pandemic. These new rules will be effective from 2023.

The country is also planning on issuing invitations to individuals to Apply for Permanent Residence (ITA), especially for those with specific work experience and education.

Canadian businesses have pointed out that labor shortages have limited their ability to increase production, thereby having a major economic impact.

According to the latest statistics, Canada has registered a record high in terms of job vacancies, especially in the education sector. The current job vacancy rate stands at 5.7% as per Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

The ongoing labor shortage has prompted the Justin Trudeau government to open up immigration targets, including the Express Entry programs. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada draw was initially paused in December 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

Reports have noted that as of June 2022, businesses have posted almost 70% more job openings in Canada as compared to pre-pandemic times.

As part of the new changes, the IRCC will soon be issuing invitations to eligible candidates, especially those who have specific educational qualifications, work experience, and language skills.

As per the government plan, invitations are being given to candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), as well as to all the programs that operate under the Express Entry system.

According to the CIC report, the Canadian IRCC has issued permanent residency invitations to 3,750 candidates in the latest express entry draw which was held in September. This was the seventh draw after the visa process was restarted on 6th July.

On September 14, 3,250 candidates were sent invites, whereas, in the August 31 draw, 2,750 people were invited.