With the aim of attracting qualified talent to the agricultural and agri-food sector, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has published 600 invitations to apply (ITA) in the first-ever category-based Express Entry draw. Applicants with experience in agricultural service contracting, farm supervision, and retail and wholesale butchery were required to achieve a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 354.
The agriculture and agri-food industry is a crucial sector in Canada, having exported nearly $92.8 billion in agriculture and food products globally in 2022. The focus on this sector in the draw will help it attract the skilled talent it needs across the country.
Yesterday, September 27saw 500 candidates with a minimum CRS of 472 invited to the French proficiency category, while he was in September 263,000 candidates were invited to a draw for all programs with a minimum CRS of 504. Today’s draw marks the third Express Entry draw of the week.
Targeted Express Entry draw for agricultural and agri-food professions
- Express Entry Tour: #267
- Type of print: Agriculture and agri-food professions
- Draw date: September 28, 2023
- CRS cut-off score: 354
- Number of invitations: 600
- Tie-breaker rule: June 12, 2023
Express entry targeted for agricultural and agri-food professions
Individuals working in agriculture-related occupations and who meet specific economic objectives established by the Minister can apply for Targeted Express Entry. Eligibility for this draw, as well as any other category-based Express Entry draws, requires qualification to one of three relevant Canadian immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) ProgramTHE Canadian Experience Class (CEC)and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST).
Occupations related to agriculture and agri-food are those that have a direct link to food production and the agricultural industry. Roles in these occupations include activities such as agriculture, cultivation, livestock handling, food production and distribution. Eligible occupations falling under this category are listed below.
Occupations eligible for the targeted Express Entry draw for agricultural and agri-food occupations are as follows:
| Professions | CNP Code 2021 |
|---|---|
| Contractors and Supervisors, Landscaping, Grounds Maintenance and Horticulture Services | 82031 |
| Agricultural Service Contractors and Farm Supervisors | 82030 |
| Butchers – retail and wholesale | 63201 |
Eligibility conditions for the targeted Express Entry draw in 2023
Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser recently announced that the country’s immigration system has established specific categories for category-based selection. This development comes after the passage of Bill C-19 in June, which has now become law and defines the categories.
This important step allows the minister to invite immigrants based on specific attributes, such as language proficiency or work experience, rather than relying solely on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The categories selected for category-based selection are:
The categories chosen for category-based selection are:
- Mastery of the French language
- Health professions
- Occupations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
- Skilled trades
- Transportation occupations (including truck drivers)
- Agriculture and agri-food professions
You must also meet all the eligibility conditions for one of the three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker ProgramTHE Canadian Experience Classor the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
| Date | Drawing type | Invitations | CRS cutoff score |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 20, 2023 | Transport professions | 1,000 | 435 |
| August 3, 2023 | Business professions | 1,500 | 388 |
| August 2, 2023 | Mastery of the French language | 800 | 435 |
| July 12, 2023 | Mastery of the French language | 3,800 | 375 |
| July 7, 2023 | Mastery of the French language | 2,300 | 439 |
| July 6, 2023 | Health professions | 1,500 | 463 |
| July 5, 2023 | STEM professions | 500 | 486 |
| June 28, 2023 | Health professions | 500 | 476 |
Need help?
If you work in the agriculture or agri-food sector and are considering moving to Canada, our team can help you make your dream a reality. Directed by Mr. Keshav Sharmaa highly regarded Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), we provide expert advice and assistance throughout the Canadian immigration process.
For a limited time, eligible candidates from the targeted Express Entry pool can take advantage of our comprehensive services for $999 CAD. Our tailor-made package includes:
- Submission of a complete and accurate Express Entry profile and/or PNP expression of interest
- Assistance in preparing documents in advance in anticipation of receiving an ITA
- Individual ZOOM appointment with a CRIC to discuss your personalized case
- Continuous support from a CRIC throughout the process and even after
Start your journey towards realizing your dream of living and working in Canada by contact us here Or schedule a consultation with us today.
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