Canada is opening doors for STEM professionals through Express Entry’s category-based draws, offering high-demand roles, competitive salaries, and exciting career opportunities in engineering, technology, and science. With a focus on building an innovative workforce, Canada provides a prime pathway for skilled STEM professionals to thrive and succeed. 

Breakdown of Category-Based ITA Targets 

The category-based selection process, introduced in May 2023, allows IRCC to prioritize candidates with skills or attributes in high demand. In 2024, candidates with French proficiency will lead the way, followed closely by those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and healthcare occupations. Here’s a closer look at the allocation of ITAs across different categories: 

• French Proficiency: 30% of ITAs 

• STEM Occupations: 25% of ITAs 

• Healthcare Occupations: 15% of ITAs 

• Trade Occupations: 5% of ITAs 

• Transport Occupations: 3% of ITAs 

• Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations: 0.5% of ITAs 

The remaining 21.5% of ITAs will go to candidates in general draws, which do not target specific occupations or attributes. 

Why Were STEM Occupations Chosen? 

Canada’s STEM labor market has seen a significant rise in job vacancies, largely due to retirements and rapid advancements in technology. According to a 2022 report from Statistics Canada, demand for STEM professionals has surged, particularly in sectors that are transitioning toward automation and artificial intelligence. By the end of 2022, the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector alone reported nearly 57,000 job openings, underscoring the urgent need for skilled talent. 

Canada’s 2023 Federal Budget highlights a $20 billion investment in infrastructure projects, including clean energy, which will fuel further demand for tech and engineering roles. Canada’s global AI sector is also thriving, with the country ranked fourth in the Global AI Index for innovation and investment, making it an attractive destination for technology professionals. This growing sector offers competitive salaries—averaging $90,252 in 2021, well above Canada’s average wage—making STEM careers highly rewarding. 

Eligibility for the STEM Occupations Category 

To qualify under the new Express Entry STEM category, candidates must: 

• Meet eligibility for one of the Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program). 

• Have a minimum of six months of continuous work experience in a listed STEM occupation within the past three years. 

• Satisfy any other specific requirements set out for the particular round of invitations. 

This focus on recent, relevant experience in key STEM fields ensures that Canada attracts professionals with the skills needed to support its labour market and economic goals. 

Which Occupations Are Included in the STEM Category? 

The STEM category encompasses a range of 24 occupations critical to Canada’s growth. Some of these high-demand roles include: 

• Architects 

• Civil Engineers 

• Data Scientists 

• Engineering Managers 

• Land Surveyors 

• Mathematicians, Statisticians, and Actuaries 

• Software Developers and Programmers 

• Urban and Land Use Planners 

• Web Developers and Programmers 

These roles span various TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories within Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC), aligning with Canada’s economic priorities. 

How Are STEM Category-Based Invitations Selected? 

In category-based rounds, IRCC will select candidates who meet the specific criteria set for each category. This selection process includes: 

• Relevant work experience in a TEER category of the NOC. 

• Language proficiency in either English or French. 

• Education level, where applicable. 

This approach allows Canada to prioritize applicants who can contribute to key sectors while also retaining the flexibility to consider language and education credentials for well-rounded candidates. 

The Role of CRS Scores in Category-Based Draws 

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) will continue to play a significant role in selecting candidates, even for category-based draws. Candidates are ranked by CRS score, which considers factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience. Although category-based draws prioritize applicants within specific fields, only top-ranking candidates within those fields will receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs). 

IRCC’s focus on CRS scores ensures that selected candidates are well-qualified, while the category-based draws allow for targeted selection to fill Canada’s most pressing labor market needs. 

The Opportunity for STEM Professionals 

For skilled professionals in STEM, Canada offers a promising pathway through Express Entry’s category-based draws. With high demand for talent in engineering, technology, and science fields, candidates with the right experience and qualifications can pursue a career in one of the world’s leading destinations for innovation and growth. Beyond competitive salaries, Canada’s commitment to STEM recruitment through immigration demonstrates the country’s dedication to building a future-ready workforce. 

Ready to Begin? Contact us today and discuss your immigration journey. Let Kingsbridge Immigration be your trusted partner as you embark on this exciting chapter in Canada!