IRCC Announces 2023 ITA Allocation for Express Entry Categories

In a recent update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has disclosed the proposed distribution of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) among the six eligible groups under the Express Entry category-based draws for the remainder of 2023.

As per information shared by them, the breakdown of ITAs for the remaining part of 2023 is as follows:

• Approximately 28% to 31% of ITAs will be issued to candidates in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) category.
• Between 11% to 15% of ITAs will be allocated to candidates proficient in the French language.
• Approximately 9% to 12% of ITAs will be granted to candidates in the Healthcare sector.
• Roughly 3% to 4% of ITAs will be offered to candidates in Trades occupations.
• Around 1% to 2% of the remaining ITAs will be reserved for those eligible for Express Entry category-based draws in Transport and Agriculture occupations.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of the data and the reasoning behind IRCC's decision, you can access additional details here.

Express Entry Category-Based Draws: A Brief Overview

Express Entry category-based draws represent a novel approach to selecting candidates for Canadian immigration based on specific economic objectives across the nation. Since the inaugural category-based draw in late June 2023, Canada has issued a total of 10,900 ITAs to candidates from all six categories.

For the year 2023, the following six Express Entry categories have been chosen after extensive consultation with stakeholders across Canada, as well as an analysis of labour market projections and input from IRCC partners:

• French-language proficiency
• Healthcare occupations
• Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) occupations
• Trade occupations
• Transport occupations
• Agriculture and agri-food occupations

Eligibility Criteria for Category-Based Rounds

In order to qualify for an invitation during a category-based round, you must:

• Fulfill the minimum requirements for Express Entry, which includes eligibility for one of the three immigration programs it encompasses.
• Satisfy all the specified requirements outlined in the instructions for the particular round.

When a category-based round of invitations is conducted, the following steps will be taken:

• Candidates within the pool who meet the criteria for the specific category will be assessed and ranked.
• The highest-ranking candidates will receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.

To determine your eligibility for immigration to Canada, connect with MWT Education Consultancy today!