Toronto, Ontario — The federal government announced Wednesday that it is revamping the country’s immigration process in a way that aims to fill the most in-demand labour gaps in Canada’s skilled trades industry.
According to the government’s announcement, this category-based selection process, offered through the Express Entry system, will allow Canada to invite individuals with specific skills or language abilities to apply for permanent resident status.
The focus of the invitations to be sent this year will first be directed to those with strong French language proficiency, in addition to those with work experience in the following fields:
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
“Everywhere I go, I’ve heard loud and clear from employers across the country who are experiencing chronic labour shortages. These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they have the skilled workers they need to grow and succeed,” said Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser.
“We can also grow our economy and help businesses with labour shortages while also increasing the number of French-proficient candidates to help ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities. Put simply, Canada’s immigration system has never been more responsive to the country’s social or economic needs.”
Details on the timeline of the invitations are to follow in the coming weeks, according to the press release.
