IRCC announces first Express Entry invitations for skilled newcomers with STEM experience

author avatar
Julia Hornstein
Published: June 28, 2023

Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry announced the first STEM round for category-based selection will open the week of July 5th.

Find out if you are eligible for Express Entry

The draw will prioritize sending invitations to candidates with Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) expertise, which includes data scientists, software developers and programmers, mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries, and electrical and electronic engineers.

Through this initiative, Canada hopes to meet the growing demand for STEM talent and fill key positions that contribute to the nation's economic growth and technological advancement.

This announcement is a milestone in Canada's commitment to attracting top global talent and solidifying Canada's position as a leader in research, development and innovation. The announcement is also in line with the Canadian government's effort to retain and recruit top candidates to address STEM workforce labour challenges, building on the recent launch of the Tech Talent Attraction Strategy.

Last month, the Honourable Minister Fraser announced the new Express Entry category based selection. Category based selections will help address labour needs that support an identified economic goal and will also strengthen Francophone immigration by inviting candidates that have specific work experience or French language ability to apply for permanent residence.

“Canada’s ability to remain at the cutting edge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics depends largely on our country’s ability to recruit top talent from around the world. I’m excited to announce this STEM category-based selection round with my colleague, Minster Champagne, which will increase access to permanent residence for skilled workers with STEM experience. We look forward to welcoming these talented and innovative newcomers to our country.” said the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

Category based selection rounds will continue throughout the year alongside the general invitation rounds, with more details to be announced in the coming weeks.

Find out if you are eligible for Express Entry

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
IRCC’s December processing times bring positive news for many study permit, PGP applicants
Smiling man sitting at a test, with a laptop to his side and a tablet in his hands.
Canada invites healthcare workers in first category-based Express Entry draw of December
A sunny winter day at the river, with a bench in the foreground and a majestic mountain range in the background.
Express Entry: 6,000 CEC invitations issued in largest draw in more than 16 months
A lighthouse stands on the PEI coast during winter time.
These are the biggest changes coming to Express Entry in 2026
A view of the Toronto skyline from the lake.
Top Stories
Snowstorm caught you off guard? Here’s how to be better prepared for the next one
Quebec invites over 1,800 candidates across various sectors and occupations through the PSTQ
IRCC’s December processing times bring positive news for many study permit, PGP applicants
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
IRCC’s December processing times bring positive news for many study permit, PGP applicants
Smiling man sitting at a test, with a laptop to his side and a tablet in his hands.
Interested in Canada’s H-1B pathway? Maximize your chances by keeping these documents ready
Businessman looking at documents
Permanent residence pathways you can qualify for with NCLC level 5 French
Upper body shot of a man in a white shirt and black blazer smiling as he walks outside.
Canada launches new streams to attract and retain top research talent from abroad
A group of researchers working hard as part of Canada's new global talent initiative.
Link copied to clipboard