On September 28, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada revealed the results of the third consecutive Express Entry draw, the fourth instance in the month of September. The 267th Express Entry draw specifically targeted candidates skilled in agricultural and agri-food occupations, extending invitations to 600 profiles boasting a CRS score of 354 or above. Notably, this is the inaugural draw focusing on agricultural occupations.
Details - Express Entry Draw #267
Draw Date: September 28, 2023
No. of Invitations Issued: 600
Minimum CRS score: 354
Specified Program: Agriculture and agri-food occupations (2023-1)
Tie-breaking rule: June 12, 2023 at 10:23:21 UTC
The Express Entry system in Canada has been refined to effectively process and welcome professionals skilled in essential areas. The focus on individuals with backgrounds in agriculture and agri-food occupation is a strategic move by Canada to address the talent shortage and fill essential roles needed by the country's agriculture and food processing sectors.
First Category-Specific Draw for Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations
An announcement by the Honorable Mark Miller and the Honorable Lawrence McAuley on September 27 unveiled the imminent launch of the first set of invitations designed for professionals in agriculture and agri-food occupations, channeled through the category-based selection within the Express Entry framework. As of the 28th, official invitations have been sent.
This occurrence marked the introduction of the category-specific draw, exclusively crafted for Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations, implying that all contenders were picked from distinct job roles within this sector, as part of the Express Entry ensemble.
Eligibility for This Category
Candidates seeking positions in agriculture and agri-food occupations must adhere to the following:
Must have at least 6 months of uninterrupted, full-time employment (or equivalent period of part-time engagement) in any of the occupations mentioned in the specified table in the preceding three years.
Experience can be gained domestically or internationally.
Comply with all the stipulations outlined in the guidelines for every individual round.
Complete criteria for eligibility are outlined in the guidelines accompanying each invitation round.
Which are the Eligible Agriculture and agri-food occupations?
Why Focus on Agriculture?
The Canadian authorities have identified a pressing requirement for adept personnel within the Agriculture and Agri-food sector. The strategy to extend invitations to candidates endowed with relevant skills is aligned with Canada’s objective to cater to the escalating need for skilled labour in this segment. In 2022, the sector played a significant role in exporting agricultural products worth approximately $92.8 billion globally. The trend of hosting tailored Express Entry draws is expected to continue, which will occur simultaneously with the general and event-specific rounds of invitations.