CRS Scores As Low As 301 As Alberta Invites 289 Canada Express Entry Candidates

Alberta invited 289 Canada immigration candidates in five draws through the Express Entry-linked stream of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program.

The June and July draws saw invitations issued in a number of different categories.

On June 20, 68 invitations were issued construction occupation candidates with an Alberta job offer. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score was 301.

On June 21, 19 invitations were issued through the Designated Healthcare Pathway and to candidates with an Alberta job offer. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score was 318.

Candidates with a family connection and skills and experience in a primary occupation in demand received 125 invitations in a June 22 draw, with a minimum score of 306.

A further 65 invitations were issued on June 29 to candidates in construction occupations with French as their first language. The minimum score was 316.

On May 23, 12 invitations were issued, again through the Designated Healthcare Pathway and to candidates with an Alberta job offer. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score was 354.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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Alberta Express Entry 2023 Draws

Date NOIs sent Parameters Lowest CRS
04-Jul-23 12 Dedicated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-1200 354
29-Jun-23 65 Priority sector – Construction occupation and French as first language, CRS score 300-500 316
22-Jun-23 125 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 306
21-Jun-23 19 Dedicated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-1200 318
20-Jun-23 68 Priority sector – Construction occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500 301
08-Jun-23 150 Priority sector – Agriculture occupation and French as a first language, CRS score 300-500 382
01-Jun-23 117 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 304
30-May-23 20 Priority sector – Agriculture occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-600 342
23-May-23 5 Designated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-1200 401
11-May-23 119 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 311
09-May-23 175 Priority sector – Tourism and hospitality occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-600 444
09-May-23 8 Designated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above 307
25-Apr-23 8 Designated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300 and above 316
24-Apr-23 124 Priority sector – construction occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-500 301
20-Apr-23 152 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 302
18-Apr-23 68 Sector priority – Agriculture occupation with Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-700 307
05-Apr-23 53 Designated Healthcare Pathway, Alberta job offer, CRS score 300-600 351
30-Mar-23 150 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 372
09-Mar-23 134 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 301
16-Feb-23 100 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 357
23-Jan-23 154 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 385
19-Jan-23 46 Family connection and primary occupation in demand, CRS score 300-500 324

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Alberta has an allocation of 9,750 provincial nominations for 2023, up from 6,500 in 2022.

The province has issued 2,549 nominations so far this year.

High Number of Applications

Alberta says a high number of AAIP applications have been received in the following occupations, meaning they may take longer to process:

  • 62020 – Food service supervisors
  • 62010 – Retail sales supervisors
  • 63200 – Cooks
  • 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • 73300 – Transport truck drivers
  • 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • 60020 – Retail and wholesale trade managers
  • 65201 – Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
  • 21231 – Software engineers and designers

What are the Requirements for Alberta Express Entry?

In order to be eligible to receive a notification of interest, candidates must:

  • Have an active Express Entry profile in the federal Express Entry pool.
  • Have stated an interest in immigrating permanently to Alberta.
  • Be working in an occupation that supports Alberta’s economic development and diversification.
  • Have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 300 points.

Factors that may improve a candidate’s chances of receiving a notification of interest:

  • A job offer from an Albertan employer and/or work experience in Alberta.
  • Having graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution.
  • Having a relative that is living in Alberta: parent, child and/or sibling.

Factors that decrease a candidate’s chances of receiving a notification of interest:


British Columbia Issues 137 Canada Immigration Invitations In New PNP Draws

British Columbia has conducted new draws through multiple streams of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program, issuing 137 invitations.

The July 5 draws were targeted at specific occupations.

In a tech draw, 97 invitations were issued to skilled workers and international graduates with a minimum score of 90 points.

A further 23 invitations were issued to skilled workers and international graduates scoring at least 60 points in a draw targeting Early Childhood Educators and Assistants under NOC 42202.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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A draw targeted at Healthcare workers saw 17 invitations issued to skilled workers, international graduates and entry level and semi-skilled workers, also with a minimum score of 60 points.


Latest B.C. Immigration Draws

Targeted Draw

Date Category Minimum Score Invitations Issued Description
05-07-23 Skilled Worker, International Graduate 90 97 Targeted draw: Tech
Skilled Worker, International Graduate 60 23 Targeted draw: Childcare: Early childhood educators (NOC 42202)
Skilled Worker, International Graduate 60 17 Targeted draw: Healthcare

 


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Are You a Canadian Employer Hiring a Foreign National? Here are 10 Things to Consider

If you’re a Canadian employer considering hiring a foreign national, there are several essential factors to consider.

Hiring foreign nationals can bring unique skills, perspectives, and expertise to your Canadian business.

However, it also involves navigating complex immigration laws and ensuring compliance with regulations.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 things you should keep in mind throughout the process, from recruitment to onboarding and beyond.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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Immigrate To Canada As A Plumber: All You Need To Know
More New Permanent Residents Through Canada’s Start-Up Visa In First Four Months Of 2023


1. Determining the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Before hiring a foreign national, Canadian employers generally need to obtain an LMIA. This process ensures that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. Consider the following:

  • Determine if the position you’re looking to fill requires an LMIA.
  • Understand the LMIA application process and associated fees.
  • Consult the government’s Global Talent Stream program for expedited processing if applicable.

2. Understanding the Work Permit Requirements

To legally work in Canada, foreign nationals typically require a work permit. Familiarize yourself with the work permit requirements and consider the following:

  • Identify the specific work permit category that aligns with your employee’s qualifications.
  • Determine if the employee is eligible for an open work permit or if the position requires a specific employer.
  • Ensure the work permit application is submitted accurately and on time.

Are you an employer looking to hire foreign workers in Canada? Immigration.ca can help through its sister company, skilledworker.com. We provide a comprehensive recruitment package to help you identify and hire the best individuals from abroad. Contact us now.


3. Assessing the Labour Market Benefits

When hiring a foreign national, it’s important to demonstrate that the employment will benefit the Canadian labor market. Consider the following:

  • Articulate the unique skills, knowledge, or experience the candidate brings to your organization.
  • Emphasize how hiring the foreign national will contribute to the growth and development of your business.
  • Be prepared to provide evidence of labor market benefits during the LMIA application process.

4. Evaluating Language Proficiency

Effective communication is crucial in the workplace. Assess the language proficiency of the foreign national by considering the following:

  • Identify the language requirements for the position and determine the employee’s fluency in English or French.
  • Consider the level of language proficiency necessary to perform the job effectively.
  • Encourage the employee to continue improving their language skills through language classes or cultural integration programs.

5. Cultural Integration and Adaptation

Moving to a new country can be a significant adjustment for foreign nationals. Ensure a smooth transition by considering the following:

  • Provide resources and support to help the employee adapt to Canadian culture and work environment.
  • Foster a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces different cultural backgrounds.
  • Encourage social integration through team-building activities and opportunities for networking.

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6. Understanding Health Insurance and Benefits

As an employer, it’s essential to understand the healthcare coverage and benefits available to foreign nationals. Consider the following:

  • Determine the eligibility of the employee for provincial healthcare coverage.
  • Explore private health insurance options to ensure comprehensive coverage for the employee.
  • Clearly communicate the available benefits and ensure the employee understands how to access them.

7. Familiarizing Yourself with Tax Obligations

Hiring a foreign national may have tax implications for both the employer and the employee. Consider the following:

  • Understand the tax obligations and potential exemptions for foreign workers.
  • Seek guidance from a tax professional to ensure compliance with the relevant tax laws.
  • Communicate with the employee regarding their tax obligations and assist them in understanding their responsibilities.

8. Providing Housing and Relocation Support

Relocating to a new country involves finding suitable housing and adapting to a new environment. Consider the following- Assess the employee’s housing needs and provide assistance in finding suitable accommodation.

  • Offer relocation support, such as information on local amenities, transportation, and community resources.
  • Consider providing a relocation package or financial assistance to ease the transition for the employee.

If you are a candidate looking for a Canada job, or an employer looking to recruit foreign talent from abroad, immigration.ca can help. Access our expertise through our in-house recruitment enterprise skilledworker.com, “the leader in foreign recruitment”.


9. Addressing Work-Life Balance

Promoting a healthy work-life balance is essential for employee well-being and productivity. Consider the following:

  • Provide flexible work arrangements when possible, allowing for personal obligations and cultural practices.
  • Foster a supportive and inclusive work environment that values work-life balance.
  • Offer resources and programs that promote physical and mental well-being.

10. Ongoing Support and Professional Development

Continued support and professional development opportunities are crucial for employee retention and growth. Consider the following:

  • Offer mentorship programs or assign a buddy to help the employee navigate the workplace.
  • Provide opportunities for training, skill development, and career advancement.
  • Regularly communicate with the employee to address any concerns and provide feedback.

Smooth and Successful Experience

Hiring a foreign national as a Canadian employer can bring significant benefits to your organization. However, it’s important to navigate the process carefully and ensure compliance with immigration laws and regulations.

By considering the ten factors outlined in this article, you can create a smooth and successful experience for both your business and the foreign national you hire. Remember, understanding the LMIA process, work permit requirements, cultural integration, and ongoing support are all key elements to keep in mind.

With proper planning and attention to detail, you can harness the diverse talents of foreign nationals to contribute to the growth and success of your Canadian business.

Ontario Targets Tech Occupations With 748 Canada Express Entry Invitations

Ontario has conducted a new draw through its Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream, issuing 748 invitations targeting technology occupations for Canada immigration.

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) draw took place on July 6 and invited candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System scores between 479 and 485.

The draw targeted the following occupations:

  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21211 – Data Scientists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)

Ontario announced it would be starting Tech Draws in July 2019.

The draws are designed to address labour shortages in the technology sector in Canada’s largest province.

Candidates selected from the Express Entry pool receive a Notification of Interest via their Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) account.

They then have 45 days to submit a full application.


Latest Ontario Human Capital Priorities Draws

Date Number of NOIs issued CRS score range Express Entry profiles created Notes
06-07-23 748 479-485 July 6, 2022 – July 6, 2023 Targeted draw – Tech draw

Read More Canada Immigration News

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Video


What Are The Requirements For the Ontario Express Entry: Human Capital Priorities Stream?

To qualify applicants must have:

  • Ongoing profile under the Federal Express Entry system and be qualified for either the FSWP or the CEC.
  • Hold a minimum of 1 year of full-time, or full-time equivalent work experience under NOC TEER Category 0, 1, 2 or 3 in the past five years if applying under the FSWP or in the past three years if applying under CEC.
  • Hold the equivalent of a Canadian bachelor degree or higher.
  • Show language proficiency of minimum CLB/NCLC level 7 in English or in French.
  • Intention to reside in the province of Ontario.
  • Residing with legal status in Canada, if applicable.
  • Proof of required settlement funds.
  • Minimum Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System score as determined by director under periodic draws.

Prince Edward Island Issues 90 Canada Immigration Invitations In New PNP Draw

Prince Edward Island has conducted a new provincial draw, issuing invitations to apply to 90 skilled worker Canada immigration candidates.

The June 29 draw saw invitations issued through the Labour Impact and Express Entry Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) stream.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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PEI PNP Immigration Draw

Date Category Invites Issued Minimum Score
29-06-2023 Labour Impact/Express Entry 90 N/A

PEI launched its Expression of Interest system at the start of 2018, and has made monthly draws ever since, with some disruption due to the coronavirus pandemic.


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PEI issued a total of 1,853 invites during 2022, compared to 1,933 in 2021.

Of the 2022 invites, 1,729 went to Labour Impact and Express Entry candidates, with the remaining 124 going to Business Impact candidates.


Prince Edward Island Express Entry Stream

PEI’s Express Entry category operates by considering candidates already in the federal Express Entry Pool for a provincial nomination.

Such a nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and effectively guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian immigration.

The PEI Express Entry Category features two pathways to Canadian permanent residence, one for candidates with a job offer and one for those without.


Prince Edward Island Labour Impact Category

1) Skilled Worker Stream

This employer driven stream allows skilled workers with an employment offer in PEI to be nominated for Canadian Permanent residence if they meet the following criteria:

  • A full time employment offer from a Prince Edward Island business in an occupation classified as TEER category 0, 1, 2 or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC);
  • Completion of a post-secondary education, with a minimum of 14 years of formal education;
  • Between 21 and 55 years of age;
  • At least 2 years of full time work experience in the past 5 years;
  • Sufficient proficiency in English or French to occupy the employment offered;
  • Sufficient settlement funds;
  • Demonstrated intention to settle in Prince Edward Island.

2) Critical Worker Stream

This category is designed to resolve labour shortages and is open to foreign workers already in PEI with employment in specific critical demand occupations.

The primary criteria for nomination are:

  • A full time offer of employment from a Prince Edward Island business in one of the following occupations:
  • Truck driver;
  • Customer service representative;
  •  Labourer;
  • Food & beverage server;
  • Housekeeping attendant.
  • 6 months of work experience with the Prince Edward Island business offering employment;
  • Current valid Canadian work permit;
  • High school diploma and minimum of 12 years of formal education;
  • Between 21 and 55 years of age;
  • At least 2 years of full-time work experience in the past 5 years;
  • Demonstrate basic proficiency in English or French language;
  • Sufficient settlement funds;
  • Demonstrated intention to settle in Prince Edward Island.

Newly-Arrived Canada Immigrants To Be Paid To Train As Truck Drivers In Ontario

We are recruiting long haul (HGV) drivers for a major employer in Canada.  If you have a valid Class 1 license equivalent in your country, please submit your CV here.

Newly-arrived immigrants, women and others from groups deemed to be under-represented will be paid to train for trucking Canada jobs in Ontario, as the province announces $1.3 million in funding.

The investment will go to training for 54 people from these groups. That may seem like a drop in the bucket considering that Ontario is estimated to need at least 6,100 more truckers to fill jobs going begging for a lack of workers to fill them.

But Ontario Premier Doug Ford is confident the program will get the ball rolling and help those who may not have ever before considered a career in trucking to do so now.

“This innovative program will help break down barriers to attract more women into the trucking industry,” said Ford.

“As we build Ontario, we’re going to need all hands-on deck. That’s why our government is working hard to ensure that all skilled occupations are more accessible and welcoming for women and all under-represented groups.”


Read More Canada Immigration News

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In Ontario, only two per cent of truck drivers are women. Since women are traditionally more likely to be the primary caregivers for young children, the new program will reimburse up to $4,500 for childcare and other living expenses.

“The trucking sector in Ontario continues to experience significant skills and labour shortages,” said Stephen Laskowski, president of the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA).

“As a multifaceted and diverse industry, there are many opportunities in trucking for Canadian women, who will be an instrumental resource in helping us solve our labour shortage. This program is an essential component of the types of investments required to build a strong workforce that can support our economy into the future.”


Are you an employer looking to hire foreign workers in Canada? Immigration.ca can help through its sister company, skilledworker.com. We provide a comprehensive recruitment package to help you identify and hire the best individuals from abroad. Contact us now.


The project, which is being led by the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada, will provide participants with up to 200 hours of training needed to obtain AZ (tractor-trailer) and DZ (straight truck) licenses.

Instructors will use both virtual reality systems and in-cab, hands-on training to teach jobseekers how to operate a commercial vehicle, perform manoeuvres, conduct inspections, maintain the vehicles, and understand commercial vehicle systems and controls.

“Truckers are the everyday heroes who keep the wheels of our economy turning, and we need to ensure more people have a chance to explore these purpose-driven careers,” said Ontario Immigration Minister Monte McNaughton.

Ontario Paying Women, Immigrants To Train To Be Truckers

“I was proud to make Ontario the first province in Canada to guarantee truckers the right to access washrooms and our government will continue to invest in training to ensure everyone in our community gets a shot at earning bigger paycheques for themselves and their families.”

Under the new initiative, the provincial government wants to remove barriers to women participating in the trucking industry by making participants eligible to receive up to $1,000 for transportation and childcare support, $300 for equipment and a $400 weekly allowance.

The first cohort of in-person training begins on July 1, Canada Day, and will be available in Kitchener-Waterloo, the Greater Toronto Area, Ottawa, and London.

The project will also cover:

  • training for forklift operation;
  • defensive driving;
  • workplace violence and harassment, and;
  • human trafficking awareness.

“This investment in the trucking industry directly helps more people achieve fulfilling careers as professional drivers,” said Shelley Walker, chief executive officer of the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada.

“With a significant and growing skilled driver shortage facing Ontario’s trucking industry, this initiative is timely in both removing barriers to employment and supporting Ontario’s economy.”


If you are a candidate looking for a Canada job, or an employer looking to recruit foreign talent from abroad, immigration.ca can help. Access our expertise through our in-house recruitment enterprise skilledworker.com, “the leader in foreign recruitment”.


There are more trucking jobs going begging for a want of qualified workers to fill them in Ontario than anywhere else in Canada, making the country’s most populous province rife with opportunities for foreign nationals who want to work there under economic immigration programs.

Job Bank, the federal government’s job-hunting and career-planning website, was listing 954 trucking jobs, categorized under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 with the code 73300, in late June.

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) was by far the most trucking job intense region, with 545 of these positions in the province centred in the provincial capital.

Toronto Has The Biggest Concentration Of Trucker Jobs In Ontario

In Ontario, the median hourly wage for trucking jobs is $24 but that varies from a low of $17 per hour right up to $32.34 per hour, reveals Job Bank. Based on a standard 37.5-hour work week, that would be $63,063 at the upper end of the annual wage scale for truckers in Ontario.

But truck drivers are also often paid bonuses by the kilometre, enabling them to earn significantly more.

With transportation companies desperately looking for truckers to replenish and grow their aging workforce, both the federal and provincial governments have been helping out with immigration policies to grant work permits and permanent residence to qualified foreign workers looking for these kinds of jobs in Canada.


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Ontario took the lead in helping transportation companies recruit internationally-trained truckers four years ago by adding the occupation to its  Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills Stream.

That means experienced truck drivers with a job offer in Ontario have a specific pathway to Canadian permanent residence.

Applicants must first register in the OINP’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system and receive an Invitation To Apply (ITA) before they can apply online to be nominated by the Ontario government for permanent residence.

Once nominated, the next step is to apply to the federal government through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The IRCC makes the final decision on who becomes a permanent resident.

Refugees With Truck-Driving Skills Are Welcome To Apply Under The EMPP

Ontario is also one of the nine provinces participating in the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) which allows employers to hire skilled refugees and other displaced individuals, including for trucking jobs.

“Canada is a global leader in helping skilled refugees connect with employers struggling to find workers in critical areas, while giving newcomers the opportunity to restart their careers and their lives here in Canada,” said Immigration Minister Sean Fraser.

“Our government will continue to develop and scale innovative immigration measures to help employers address their critical labour shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to live in safety while rebuilding their lives.”

Foreign nationals who are not refugees can also immigrate to Ontario as truck drivers through the federal, Express Entry Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program.

In mid-November last year, truck driver was one of 16 occupations added to the FSW’s list of eligible occupations when the IRCC updated to the NOC 2021 classification system.

Immigrate To Canada As A Plumber: All You Need To Know

Demand for internationally-trained plumbers is only expected to grow over the next eight years with hundreds of these Canada jobs already going begging for a lack of qualified workers.

That means the time is ripe for foreign nationals with these skills and work experience to gain their permanent residence in Canada through Express Entry programs occupation-targeted draws.

Under changes announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at the end of May, the Express Entry streams, including the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program, Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program and Canadian Experience Class (CEC), as well as parts of the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) will now be more responsive to labour market needs through occupation-targeted draws.

Plumber, categorized under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system with the code 72300, is one of the 82 occupations that will now be targeted under these new Express Entry draws.

Already, there are a lot of opportunities for plumbers in Canada. The Job Bank federal job-hunting and career-planning website listed 456 such jobs up for grabs in early June.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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The greatest demand for carpenters at that time was in British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Those four provinces together accounted for 389 positions, or 85.3 per cent of all these jobs, in early June.

There were then 217 jobs for plumbers in British Columbia listed on Job Bank and another 78 in Ontario as well as 49 in Alberta and 45 in Saskatchewan.

Quebec employers were then looking for 21 people to fill these kinds of jobs, Nova Scotia was looking for 15 plumbers, New Brunswick nine, Manitoba 12 and Newfoundland and Labrador and Prince Edward Island one apiece.


Are you an employer looking to hire foreign workers in Canada? Immigration.ca can help through its sister company, skilledworker.com. We provide a comprehensive recruitment package to help you identify and hire the best individuals from abroad. Contact us now.


In early June, the Northwest Territories was looking for two plumbers.

Job Bank, the federal job-hunting and career-planning website, is forecasting a labour shortage of 2,400 plumbers across the country over the coming eight years.

“For plumbers, over the period 2022-2031, new job openings arising from expansion demand and replacement demand are expected to total 12,600, while 10,200 new job seekers arising from school leavers, immigration and mobility are expected to be available to fill them,” states Job Bank.


If you are a candidate looking for a Canada job, or an employer looking to recruit foreign talent from abroad, immigration.ca can help. Access our expertise through our in-house recruitment enterprise skilledworker.com, “the leader in foreign recruitment”.


In Canada, the median hourly wage for a plumber is $31 with that ranging from a low of $18 right up to $42.64, reveals Job Bank.

Based on a standard 37.5-hour work week, that would be $83,148 at the upper end of the annual wage scale for plumbers in Canada.

Until this year, the flagship Express Entry selection system has previously only conducted draws based on immigration programs, not by targeting specific occupations.

Immigration Minister Opens Up Express Entry To Target Occupations To Resolve Labour Shortages

Candidates will need at least six months of continuous work experience in Canada or abroad within the past three years in one of these occupations to be eligible, experience that can have been gained while working in Canada as temporary foreign workers with a work permits or as an international student with a student visa.

“Everywhere I go, I’ve heard loud and clear from employers across the country who are experiencing chronic labour shortages,” said Immigration Minister Sean Fraser.

“These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they have the skilled workers they need to grow and succeed. We can also grow our economy and help businesses with labour shortages while also increasing the number of French-proficient candidates to help ensure the vitality of French-speaking communities.”


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Canada first signalled its intention to start occupation-specific draws through Express Entry in June last year, when changes were made to the Immigration, Refugee and Protection Act to allow invitations based on occupations and other attributes, such as language ability.

The majority of Canada’s provinces have been issuing occupation-specific invitations for several years.

Under the changes to the act, the immigration minister is required to consult provinces and territories, members of industry, unions, employers, workers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, and immigration researchers and practitioners, before announcing new categories.

IRCC must also report to parliament each year on the categories that were chosen and the reason for the choices.

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) says the number of occupations facing shortages doubled between 2019 and 2021. From 2018 to 2022, federal high skilled admissions accounted for between 34 and 40 per cent of overall French-speaking admissions outside Quebec, which manages its own immigration intake.

More New Permanent Residents Through Canada’s Start-Up Visa In First Four Months Of 2023

The latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows the Start-Up Visa (SUV) immigration program helped more foreign nationals become permanent residents of Canada in the first four months of this year than during the comparable period last year.

In the first third of this year, the SUV welcomed 195 new permanent residents, or 8.3 per cent more than the 180 during the first four months of 2022.

At the current rate of new arrivals through the SUV, the program could welcome 585 new permanent residents by the end of this year if the current levels continue throughout 2023.

That level would be roughly comparable to the 575 new permanent residents who made Canada their home with the aid of the SUV last year.

But, as overall immigration to Canada dipped by 34.6 per cent in April compared to the previous month, so too did the number of new permanent residents arriving through the SUV also fall that month.


Read More Canada Immigration News

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Strong Start In 2023 For Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program


In April, the SUV welcomed 30 per cent fewer new permanent residents to Canada, only 35, compared to the 50 in March.

The most popular destinations for immigrant entrepreneurs arriving under the SUV so far this year have been British Columbia and Ontario.

The West Coast province of British Columbia welcomed 85 new permanent residents through the SUV in the first four months of this year, up 6.3 per cent from the 80 for the comparable period in 2022.

Ontario, Canada’s biggest province, welcomed 70 new permanent residents through that immigration program in the first four months of this year, down 17.6 per cent from the 85 for the same period last year.

Alberta, which did not receive any immigrants through the SUV in the first four months of last year, added 15 of these entrepreneurs through the program during the comparable period this year.


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And Manitoba, which welcomed 25 immigrant entrepreneurs through the SUV in the first four months of last year, repeated its performance through the SUV this year.

None of the other provinces or territories added any new permanent residents through the SUV in the first four months of this year.

The SUV program generates much lower overall numbers of new permanent residents than federal worker programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Federal Skilled Trade (FST), the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) or the regional economic development programs including the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) or Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).

Due to these smaller numbers, the monthly fluctuations in the number of new permanent residents under the SUV can sometimes seem exaggerated when examined in percentage terms.

Work Permits Allow SUV Candidates To Come To Canada While Application Being Processed

Candidates applying under the SUV program can initially come to Canada on a work permit supported by their designated Canadian investor before their application for permanent residence is finalized.

The entire process of applying for permanent residence to Canada through the SUV is currently estimated by the IRCC to take 33 months.

Under the SUV, three types of private-sector investors are considered: angel investorsventure capital funds, and business incubators.

A designated venture capital fund must confirm that it is investing at least $200,000 into the qualifying business. Candidates can also qualify with two or more commitments from designated venture capital funds totalling $200,000.

A designated angel investor group must invest at least $75,000 into the qualifying business. Candidates can also qualify with two or more investments from angel investor groups totalling $75,000.

A designated business incubator must accept the applicant into its business incubator program. It is up to the immigrant investor to develop a viable business plan that will meet the due diligence requirements of these government-approved designated entities.

Immigrant Entrepreneurs Often Use Services Of Business Immigration Lawyers To Set Up Companies

That investing and the development of the business is usually done with the help of business consultants in Canada’s start-up ecosystem with oversight from experienced corporate business immigration lawyers who can ensure a start-up’s business concept meets all industry-required terms and conditions.

The basic government-imposed candidate eligibility requirements for the SUV are:

Quebec Targets 1,006 Candidates With High French Proficiency Or A Job Offer In Canada Immigration Draw

Quebec immigration has issued 1,006 Canada immigration invitations to apply in a new draw through the Arrima Expression of Interest system.

The June 22 draw targeted two categories of candidates.

The first category featured candidates with a French language speaking ability of level 7 or higher on the Quebec proficiency scale, and who scored 626 points or above in the Quebec Expression of Interest points system.

Candidates with a job offer outside of the Montreal metropolitan area were targeted in the second category. There was no minimum score for these candidates.


Quebec Expression Of Interest Draws 2023

Date of invitations Invites Issued Minimum Score Date of extraction from Arrima bank
22-06-23 1,006 626 June 19, 2023 at 6.30am

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How Does Quebec Expression of Interest Work?

  1. Candidates submit an online expression of interest profile via Arrima.
  2. Profiles enter into an Expression of Interest pool, where they are ranked against each other using a points system and are valid for 12-months.
  3. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for a Quebec Certificate of Selection under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program via periodic draws.
  4. Candidates receiving an invitation have 60 days to submit a full application.
  5. Approved candidates who receive a nomination certificate (CSQ) may then apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent residence.

Quebec Expression of Interest Points System

The Quebec Expression of Interest points system is used to rank profiles submitted via Arrima to the Expression of Interest bank, with the highest-ranked profiles invited to apply for Quebec immigration under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program.

Candidates and their spouse or common-law partner can score up to 1,320 points based on human capital and Quebec labour market factors.

What Are the Requirements for Quebec Expression of Interest?

The Quebec Expression of Interest points system involves points in two categories, with some including points for the spouse of common law partner of the principal candidate.

  • Human capital factors:
  • French language ability.
  • French and English combined.
  • Age.
  • Work experience.
  • Education.
  • Quebec labour market factors:
  • Work experience in a field with a labour shortage.
  • Qualifications in one of Quebec’s areas of training.
  • Level of Quebec education.
  • Professional experience in Quebec.
  • Professional experience in the rest of Canada.
  • Job offer inside or outside Greater Montreal.

Quebec publishes lists of High Demand Occupations and Areas of Training that weigh considerably in the assessment.

Manitoba Issues 587 Canada Immigration Invitations In New PNP Draw

Manitoba has issued 587 invitations to apply in a new Canada immigration draw through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program.

The June 29 draw saw LAAs issued through three MPNP streams.

A batch of 315 invitations with a lowest score of 613 went to Skilled Workers in Manitoba candidates currently employed in Manitoba in one of the following major group occupations:

  • 60030 – Restaurant and food service managers
  • 62020 – Food service supervisors
  • 65201 – Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations

Meanwhile, Skilled Workers in Manitoba candidates in all occupations received 240 LAAs, with a minimum score of 669 points.

International Education Stream candidates received 56 LAAs.

The remaining 31 LAAs went to Skilled Workers Overseas candidates through a Strategic Recruitment Initiative, with a minimum score of 801.


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Manitoba stated that 162 of the 587 candidates invited had valid Express Entry IDs and job seeker validation codes.

In a separate draw on June 26, Manitoba issued 49 invitations as part of its special immigration measures for Ukraine.

To qualify, candidates must:

  • Be a citizen of Ukraine;
  • have a minimum of CLB 4 in each language band;
  • have established connection to Manitoba (close relative, family-like, community, previous employment or studies in Manitoba);
  • have a valid language test; and
  • score at least 60 points according to MPNP assessment criteria.

For detailed requirements of all the streams featured in this draw, please see below.


What Were the Details of the Latest Manitoba Draw?

Stream Sub-Stream Letters of Advice to Apply Score of Lowest Ranked Candidate
1) Skilled Workers in Manitoba Occupation-specific selection 315 613
All occupations 184 662
2) International Education Stream 62
3) Skilled Workers Overseas Strategic Recruitment Initiative 26 717
4) Special Immigration Measures for Ukraine 49 60

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How Do I Qualify For The Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream?

The Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream (SWM) is based on the specific needs of Manitoba employers. SWM selects foreign-trained workers with the required skills and nominates them for Canada permanent residence. The stream prioritizes candidates with a strong attachment to Manitoba, with two pathways to Manitoba immigration.

a) Manitoba Work Experience Pathway

For applicants currently working in Manitoba on temporary work permits, through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or as international graduates from any province. Candidates do not need to be working in In-Demand Occupations.

b) Employer Direct Recruitment Pathway

For applicants from overseas with job offers from approved Manitoba employers.


How Do I Qualify For The Skilled Worker Overseas Stream?

The Skilled Worker Overseas Stream (SWO) includes both a dedicated Canada Express Entry Pathway and a direct provincial pathway.

It is aimed at international skilled workers with skills and training in Manitoba’s In-Demand Occupations. Priority is given to applicants and spouses with close family connections, plus the language proficiency, training and experience to find jobs quickly.

a) Manitoba Express Entry Pathway

For international candidates eligible under another MPNP stream, who also meet Express Entry criteria and have an active Express Entry profile. Candidates need skills, training and experience in one of Manitoba’s In-Demand Occupations, and a strong family connection to the province.

b) Human Capital Pathway

For international skilled workers with skills, training and experience in one of Manitoba’s In-Demand Occupations. Candidates must demonstrate potential to find employment soon after they arrive in Manitoba.


What Are The Requirements For the International Education Stream?

The International Education Stream (IES) is dedicated to international graduates from Manitoba colleges and universities. Under IES, candidates are no longer required to work for six months in their field before applying for an MPNP nomination. It has three pathways:

1) Career Employment Pathway  

Eligibility requirements include:

  • Completed a one-year or longer course from an eligible post-secondary Manitoba institution within three years of submission of application.
  • Have a full-time job offer in a Manitoba In-Demand occupation related to the completed degree
  • Resident of Manitoba

2) Graduate Internship Pathway

Masters and Doctoral degree holders who have completed Mitacs Accelerate or Elevate internships can apply for nomination through internships even without a job offer in the province.

3) Student Entrepreneur Pathway

Eligibility requirements include:

  • Completed a two-year or longer course from an eligible post-secondary Manitoba institution
  • Six months business operation experience in Manitoba
  • Resident of Manitoba since graduation.
  • No specific minimum personal net worth requirement

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