Express Entry Healthcare Category Draw Changes – Latest IRCC Update
Introduction: Major Changes in Express Entry Healthcare Draws
Canada’s Express Entry system has significantly improved, impacting healthcare professionals seeking permanent residency (PR). The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revised its Healthcare and Social Services category, adding new eligible occupations while removing others.
If you’re a healthcare professional aiming for PR, these updates could affect your eligibility and chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Let’s break down these changes and what they mean for you.
What’s New? IRCC’s Updated Healthcare & Social Services Occupations List
The IRCC has made targeted changes to the Express Entry category-based draws to address labor shortages in Canada’s healthcare sector. Here’s what’s changed:
Newly Added Occupations (Now Eligible for Express Entry Healthcare Draws)
If you work in any of these professions, you now have a direct pathway to PR under the Express Entry healthcare draw:
- Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
- Social Workers (NOC 41300)
- Pharmacy Technicians (NOC 32124)
- Dental Hygienists & Dental Therapists (NOC 32111)
- Animal Health Technologists & Veterinary Technicians (NOC 32104)
Occupations Removed from the Healthcare Draw Category
Unfortunately, these professions are no longer eligible under the healthcare-specific Express Entry draw:
- Educational Counsellors (NOC 41320)
- Kinesiologists & Therapy Professionals (NOC 31204)
- Acupuncturists & Natural Healers (NOC 32209)
How to Apply for Express Entry as a Healthcare Professional
Step 1: Check Your Express Entry Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
Have at least one year of skilled work experience in an eligible healthcare occupation.
Meet the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for draws.
Have valid language test results (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF or TCF for French).Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if your degree is from outside Canada.
Step 2: Create or Update Your Express Entry Profile
- If you already have a profile, update your NOC code and ensure your job title matches the newly eligible professions.
- If you haven’t created a profile yet, submit your details on the IRCC website and choose the Healthcare & Social Services category if applicable.
Step 3: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- IRCC regularly conducts Express Entry draws.
- If you meet the required CRS score and fall under the targeted category, you may receive an ITA for PR.
- Once invited, submit your documents and PR application within 60 days.
Common Challenges & Solutions for Healthcare Professionals Applying for PR
My Occupation Was Removed from the List. What Can I Do?
If your profession is no longer eligible for healthcare draws, you still have options:
- Check other Express Entry categories (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class).
- Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – Some provinces still nominate healthcare workers.
- Consider job offers in eligible healthcare roles to improve your PR chances.
My CRS Score Is Too Low. How Can I Increase It?
- Improve your language scores – Retake IELTS or CELPIP to get a higher CLB level.
- Gain additional work experience – More years of experience can boost points.
- Study in Canada – A diploma or certification can increase your CRS score.
- Secure a job offer – A valid job offer from a Canadian employer adds extra points.
FAQs: Your Express Entry Healthcare Draw Questions Answered
1. Can I apply for Express Entry if I don’t have Canadian work experience?
Yes! You can apply under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program if you meet the eligibility requirements.
2. What happens if my job is no longer on the healthcare list?
You can explore other PR pathways like PNPs or try to secure a job in an eligible profession.
3. How often does IRCC update the Express Entry categories?
IRCC can make changes at any time based on labor market needs. That’s why it’s crucial to stay updated and act quickly.