By
Latiifah Amusan
Canada has unveiled a new immigration pathway for carpenters, plumbers, and welders from countries including Nigeria.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on Tuesday that it will provide a streamlined and efficient pathway through the Express Entry (EE) system for individuals with expertise in these critical fields.
The new category-based selection rounds will prioritize inviting skilled newcomers with experience in the trades as permanent residents.
The minister of IRCC, Marc Miller, emphasized the importance of assisting the construction sector in finding and retaining the workers it needs to support the country’s development.
The Express Entry system is an online platform used by the Canadian government to grant permanent residence to skilled workers, making it the primary system for managing such applications for Canadian immigration.
To be eligible under the Express Entry system, applicants must meet the requirements of either the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.
Canada’s aging population and declining birth rate have led to a shrinking labor force, prompting the government to intensify efforts to attract young and vibrant immigrants through immigration-friendly policies.
In line with this goal, the Canadian federal government announced plans to welcome 500,000 immigrants annually with almost 1.5 million new immigrants expected to arrive in the country over the next three years.
