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Express Entry Program
Category-Based Express Entry Draws
IRCC now conducts targeted draws for specific occupation categories. If you work in healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, agriculture, or speak French, you may receive an invitation at a lower CRS score.
Processing
6 months or less
Recent Cutoff
440
Last Draw
1,000 ITAs
Max CRS
1,200 pts
Program Overview
About Category-Based Express Entry Draws
Starting in 2023, IRCC began conducting category-based Express Entry draws that target candidates with specific attributes or occupations. These draws allow Canada to address labor shortages in key sectors.
Category-based draws often have significantly lower CRS cutoffs than general draws. Healthcare workers, STEM professionals, tradespeople, and French speakers have received invitations at scores that would not qualify in general draws.
The categories are based on Canada's economic priorities and labor market needs. IRCC updates the eligible categories periodically, so staying informed about current priorities can help you time your application.
Key Benefits
Lower CRS cutoffs than general draws
Targets in-demand occupations
Multiple categories active
Same fast processing (6 months)
Combines with PNP if applicable
Addresses labor shortages directly
Free CRS Assessment
Find out your CRS score and chances of receiving an invitation for Category-Based. Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your profile.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Meet these requirements to qualify for Category-Based Express Entry Draws.
Valid Express Entry Profile
You must have an active profile in the Express Entry pool under FSW, CEC, or FST programs.
Category Qualification
Your occupation or attributes must match the targeted category. Categories include healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, agriculture, and French language proficiency.
Occupation Verification
Your primary occupation (where you have the most experience) must match the category. IRCC verifies this against your profile.
Program Eligibility
You must still meet all requirements of your underlying program (FSW, CEC, or FST).
CRS Scoring
Comprehensive Ranking System
Your CRS score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool.
Category Alignment
N/ANo bonus points, but category draws have lower cutoffs. Being in the right category matters more than higher CRS.
Standard CRS
1200 pointsSame CRS calculation as general draws. Category just determines which pool you are drawn from.
PNP Nomination
600 pointsPNP still adds 600 points and can combine with category eligibility.
Draw History
Recent Express Entry Draws
Track recent CRS cutoffs to understand your chances.
January 2026Healthcare
440
CRS Cutoff
1,000 invitations
January 2026STEM
450
CRS Cutoff
800 invitations
December 2025Trades
380
CRS Cutoff
500 invitations
December 2025French Proficiency
410
CRS Cutoff
600 invitations
How to Apply
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for Category-Based Express Entry Draws.
1
Identify Your Category
Determine if your occupation or attributes match current category priorities. Check IRCC announcements for active categories.
2
Verify Occupation Code
Ensure your primary occupation NOC matches the category. Your profile occupation determines eligibility.
3
Create/Update Profile
Submit or update your Express Entry profile. Ensure occupation details are accurate.
4
Monitor Draws
Track category-based draw announcements. Cutoffs can vary significantly between categories.
5
Receive ITA
If your category is drawn and your CRS meets the cutoff, you receive an ITA.
6
Submit Application
Complete and submit your PR application within 60 days.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Category-Based Express Entry Draws
What categories are currently active?
As of 2026, active categories include healthcare, STEM, skilled trades, transport, agriculture, and French language proficiency. IRCC updates categories based on labor market needs.
Do I get bonus CRS points for category?
No, there are no bonus points. Category-based draws simply have lower cutoff scores. A healthcare draw might invite candidates at CRS 440 while general draws require 520+.
Can I be in multiple categories?
You can qualify for multiple categories (e.g., French-speaking healthcare worker), but you are drawn based on your primary occupation in your profile.
How do I know if my occupation qualifies?
IRCC publishes lists of eligible NOC codes for each category. Check your occupation against these lists. Your profile occupation must match exactly.
Are category draws more frequent?
IRCC conducts a mix of general and category-based draws. Categories are drawn when addressing specific priorities. Monitor draw announcements to track patterns.
Ready to Apply for Category-Based?
Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants. We'll assess your profile and create a strategy to maximize your CRS score.