Category-Based Targeted Express Entry Draw History 2025

What is a Category-Based Express Entry?

In category-based rounds of invitations, we select candidates from the Express Entry pool who meet the eligibility requirements for a particular category defined by the Minister.

These categories are established to fulfill specific economic objectives. Invitations to apply for permanent residence are extended to candidates based on criteria such as their proficiency in a specific official language, work experience in a designated occupation, and level of education.

Category-based rounds complement general and program-specific rounds by targeting high-ranking candidates who possess the skills and qualifications necessary to contribute to our specific economic goals. These are the six broad categories eligible for Targeted Express Entry in 2023.

• French-language proficiency
• Healthcare occupations
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations
• Trade occupations
• Transport occupations
• Agriculture and agri-food occupations

Eligible Occupations Under Category-Based Express Entry

These are the 82 eligible occupations under the Targeted Express Entry with their respective NOC TEER Codes.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

What is category-based selection in Express Entry?

Category-based selection allows Canada to invite Express Entry candidates based on specific skills and experience that address the country’s economic priorities, instead of only based on CRS score. Categories focus on occupations in high demand such as healthcare, STEM, trades, education, or French-language proficiency.

How does category-based selection differ from regular Express Entry?

Regular Express Entry invites candidates with the highest CRS scores across all occupations. Category-based draws invite candidates eligible for specific occupations or skills at lower CRS scores by priority. This means candidates with fewer points but in high-demand categories may receive invitations.

Can I qualify under more than one category in category-based draws?

Yes, candidates can qualify for multiple categories if they meet the criteria. For example, a French-speaking nurse could qualify under both French-language proficiency and healthcare categories, increasing their chances of an invitation.

Are CRS cutoffs lower for category-based draws?

Yes, category-based draws typically have significantly lower CRS cutoffs compared to general draws. Cutoffs can be about 80–120 points lower, making it easier for candidates in priority occupations to receive invitations.

How often are category-based draws held?

Category-based draws are held regularly throughout the year, often every 2-3 weeks depending on the demand for specific occupation categories and labour market needs.

Can I work in Canada while my Express Entry application is processed?

If you have a valid work permit (including open work permits and bridging permits), you can work in Canada while your application is processed. If you are outside Canada, you must wait for approval unless you obtain a separate work permit.

What occupations are currently targeted in category-based draws?

High-demand occupations include healthcare professionals (e.g., nurses, paramedics), tradespeople (e.g., electricians, welders), STEM professionals, educators, and French-speaking categories.

How do I know if I am eligible for a category-based draw?

Eligibility depends on having work experience or qualifications in a specific category announced by IRCC. You must have an active Express Entry profile and meet the category criteria announced before each draw.

What is the typical processing time after receiving an invitation?

IRCC aims to process 80% of complete applications within 6 months, regardless of the draw type. Processing times can vary depending on application volume and completeness.

Does category-based selection replace regular Express Entry draws?

No. Category-based selection is an additional pathway within the Express Entry system. Regular general draws still occur alongside category draws to maintain a balanced selection process.

Can Canadian work experience help in category-based selection?

Yes, Canadian work experience is highly valued and can improve eligibility in specific categories, especially in healthcare and trades occupations.

Are provincial nominee program (PNP) candidates eligible for category-based draws?

PNP candidates with an Express Entry profile can receive invitations through category-based draws if their occupation matches the targeted categories and they meet the criteria.

Is there a language requirement for category-based draws?

Yes, candidates must meet minimum language proficiency requirements in English or French as defined in the specific category criteria.

Can international students benefit from category-based draws?

Yes, graduates with relevant work experience in targeted occupations who have an Express Entry profile can be invited through category-based draws.

How do changes in labour market needs affect category-based draws?

IRCC adjusts targeted categories and draw frequencies based on real-time labour market demands and economic priorities to fill skill shortages efficiently.

Where can I find official updates about category-based draws?

Official updates are available on the Government of Canada’s immigration website and the IRCC news portal, as well as trusted immigration consultant websites.

Are there any additional documents required for category-based draws?

Documents required are similar to other Express Entry streams, including proof of work experience, language test results, educational credentials, and identity documents.

Can spouses and dependents be included in the application under category-based selection?

Yes, spouses and dependents can be included in the Express Entry application and benefit from the primary applicant’s invitation.

What happens if I miss the invitation due to CRS score drop?

If your CRS score falls below the cutoff for a specific category draw, you will need to wait for future draws or improve your CRS score to receive an invitation later.

Can temporary foreign workers apply under category-based express entry draws?

Yes, eligible temporary foreign workers with experience in target occupations can apply if they have an active Express Entry profile.