The Honourable Marc Miller, former minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship announced a new category under its Express Entry immigration system on Feb. 27, focusing on the education sector.
The move aims to address labour shortages in the education sector as a survey last year by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada revealed a “great need” for an education category.
The survey captured education occupations which could face long-term labour shortages.
The outcomes included early childhood educators and assistants at 75.1 per cent, elementary school and kindergarten teachers at 47.4 per cent, elementary and secondary school teachers with 41.2 per cent, instructors of persons with disabilities with 38.4 per cent, secondary school teachers with 31.7 per cent and educational counsellors with 22.6 per cent.
Canada’s Express Entry system, established in 2015, is the primary method for processing permanent residency applications for skilled workers.
It operates as a point-based system, assessing candidates based on language proficiency, education level, work experience, age, arranged employment in Canada and adaptability.
In 2023, Canada introduced category-based selection for Express Entry.
The government established these categories to match economic priorities and reviews them regularly to maintain relevance and address emerging gaps, according to the federal government.
There are now six reviewed categories which comprises French-language proficiency, health care, STEM, trades, agriculture and agri-food and education, which is the new category introduced.
The new education category requires educational professionals who have accumulated, within the past three years, at least six months of full-time, continuous work experience or an equal amount of part-time experience in a single occupation listed under the education category and having gained this experience either in Canada or abroad.
Candidates enter a pool and receive an invitation to apply based on the highest Comprehensive Ranking System score for that period. The government holds regular draws, inviting individuals who meet specific economic needs.
Prospective applicants must create an Express Entry profile and provide documentation of their credentials. Those who receive invitations can apply for permanent residence within 60 days.
Immigrants play an essential role in Canada’s economy and workforce, according to the Government of Canada.
“Canada’s Express Entry system is evolving to meet the country’s changing needs,” said Miller.
“By addressing labour shortages, strengthening our economy and increasing Francophone immigration, we are building a more dynamic workforce with workers and professionals from in-demand fields.
“Our approach ensures immigration remains a key driver of Canada’s growth, helping businesses thrive while supporting communities across the country.”
