Canada has established targeted Express Entry draws to attract skilled professionals in various sectors, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), outlining the STEM program in Canada. These draws prioritize candidates based on their work experience rather than their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, making it an attractive pathway for STEM professionals seeking to immigrate to Canada.
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STEM Visa in Canada
While there is no specific STEM visa in Canada, STEM professionals can immigrate through multiple pathways such as the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Global Talent Stream. These programs facilitate the entry of high-demand STEM workers to address labor shortages in critical sectors:
- Global Talent Stream (GTS): a fast-track work permit program for high-skilled workers in technology and engineering fields;
- Startup Visa Program: encourages entrepreneurs in STEM-related businesses to establish startups in Canada;
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): enables international students with Canadian STEM degrees to gain work experience and apply for PR.
For more information about STEM education in Canada, our team of specialized Canadian lawyers can offer support in this matter.
Eligibility criteria for the STEM program in Canada
To be eligible for a this STEM category-based draw through the Express Entry, candidates must:
- Meet the general Express Entry requirements and qualify under one of the three programs (FSW, CEC, or FST);
- Have relevant work experience or skills that align with the chosen category;
- Possess a minimum of six months of work experience in an eligible STEM occupation within the last three years;
- Demonstrate the required language proficiency in English or French, as specified in the draw.
Additionally, meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation, as invitations are issued based on ranking within the pool of candidates. For an efficient application through the STEM education program in Canada, you can rely on our specialized Canadian attorneys.
Required documentation for STEM education in Canada
Applicants must provide accurate and complete documentation to support their Express Entry profile and enter the STEM program in Canada. Required documents include:
- Proof of work experience: reference letters, employment contracts, and pay stubs to verify job experience in an eligible STEM field.
- Educational credentials: degrees, diplomas, or certificates evaluated by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if obtained outside Canada;
- Language proficiency test results: IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF/TCF scores proving English or French proficiency;
- Valid passport: a government-issued passport to confirm identity and travel history;
- Proof of funds: Bank statements or financial records to demonstrate financial stability for relocation in Canada.
- Medical examination and police clearance: proof of good health and no criminal record.
Eligible occupations for the STEM program in Canada
To qualify for the STEM education program in Canada, candidates must have at least six months of work experience in an eligible occupation within the last three years.
Newly added occupations:
- Civil engineering technologists and technicians;
- Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians;
- Geological engineers;
- Insurance agents and brokers;
- Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians;
- Mechanical engineers.
Recently removed occupations:
- Architects;
- Computer and information systems managers;
- Data scientists;
- Software engineers and designers;
- Web developers and programmers.
Steps to apply for STEM visa in Canada
While the frequency of these draws may fluctuate, Canada’s demand for STEM education remains strong. Understanding the eligibility criteria, exploring alternative pathways, and taking strategic steps to improve CRS scores can significantly enhance the chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. The steps to enter the STEM program in Canada involve:
- Determine Express Entry Eligibility: candidates must first qualify under one of the three Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST);
- Submit a profile: once eligible, candidates enter the Express Entry;
- Check CRS score: the CRS score ranks candidates based on factors like work experience, education, and language proficiency;
- Identification for a category-based draw: if eligible, the IRCC may consider the candidate for a STEM-specific draw;
- Ranking process: Candidates are ranked against others in the STEM category;
Find support from our specialized immigration lawyers in Canada in order to successfully follow the steps for STEM education in Canada.
STEM education data in Canada
The following breakdown with data from 2022 provides insights into the Canadian STEM program fields, highlighting key trends in student demographics and program distribution:
- The total enrollment in STEM education in Canada was of 149,253 students (24% of total);
- For the science and technology STEM subfield were enrolled 49,959 students;
- For the engineering STEM subfield were enrolled 55,317 students;
- For the Mathematics and Computer subfield were enrolled 43,977 students.
For more information and assistance in order to enter a STEM education program in Canada, do not hesitate to contact our team of immigration lawyers.
