December 22nd, 2024 at 08:26 am

Canada PR: No More STEM Type in Express Entry for 2025 | Canada Immigration

The IRCC has announced significant changes to the Express Entry system for 2025. Notably, STEM occupations, which were targeted in recent draws, will no longer be a specific category for future Express Entry invitations. This adjustment impacts how candidates are selected for permanent residency in Canada.

Recent STEM Express Entry Draws

In 2023 and 2024, Canada conducted several STEM-focused Express Entry draws. These draws allowed the government to invite candidates based on their work experience rather than solely on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores.

Here are some recent draws:

What is a Category-Based STEM Express Entry Draw?

The IRCC conducts three types of Express Entry draws:

• General Rounds: Invite top-ranking candidates eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, or Canadian Experience Class programs.
• Program-Specific Rounds: Target candidates for specific programs, such as Provincial Nominee Programs.
• Category-Based Rounds: Focus on specific economic or cultural goals. Current categories include French, Healthcare, Trade, Transport, Agriculture, and STEM.

The category-based draws allowed Canada to emphasize work experience in STEM fields. However, with the changes for 2025, STEM will no longer be a separate category.

How to Apply for Express Entry

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

To enter the Express Entry pool, candidates must be eligible for one of three programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)

Each program has distinct eligibility criteria related to work experience, education, and language skills.

Important Note on Work Experience

For the CEC and FSW, candidates need at least one year of skilled work experience. This experience must consist of at least 30 hours of work per week. Candidates can also combine part-time work to meet the 1,560 hours required for one year.

The CEC requires skilled work experience in Canada, while the FSW does not. This distinction means that individuals can qualify for PR under the FSW without ever visiting Canada.

Step 2: Submit Your Profile

Once eligible, candidates should submit their profiles to the Express Entry pool. This step is crucial for potential invitations.

Step 3: Check Your CRS Score

After submitting your profile, you will receive a CRS score. This score determines your ranking among other candidates in the pool.

Step 4: Eligibility for Categories

Your profile will be evaluated for eligibility in specific categories based on your qualifications.

Step 5: Ranking in the Pool

Your CRS score will rank your profile against others, including both general and STEM candidates.

Step 6: Receive an Invitation

The IRCC will conduct Express Entry draws and send invitations based on the CRS cut-off scores. If your score meets or exceeds the cut-off, you may receive an invitation to apply.

Final Thoughts

Express Entry draws feature a CRS cut-off. If your score exceeds this threshold, you will receive an invitation. If your score matches the cut-off, you may also receive an invitation, depending on submission timing.

While STEM-specific draws are no longer available, candidates remain eligible for both general and category-based draws. If you receive an invitation, you can apply for permanent residence. If not, you may need to improve your CRS score for future opportunities.

Stay informed about the changes and prepare your application accordingly. With the right approach, you can successfully navigate the Express Entry process in 2025.