Express Entry Categories for 2025: Key Updates and Eligibility Criteria
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled the Express Entry categories for 2025, introducing significant changes to align with Canada’s long-term labour market needs. These updates aim to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economic growth and address critical shortages in key sectors. Below, we break down the new categories, eligibility criteria, and major changes in an easy-to-read format.
Key Highlights of Express Entry 2025
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New Education Category: Introduced to meet Canada’s demand for skilled professionals in the education sector.
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Focus on Canadian Work Experience: Priority will be given to candidates with Canadian work experience under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
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Francophone Immigration: Special draws for candidates with strong French-language skills to support bilingualism and Francophone communities.
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Targeted Occupations: Category-based draws will focus on sectors like healthcare, trades, STEM, agriculture, and education.
Express Entry Categories for 2025
Category |
Focus Area |
French-language proficiency |
Candidates with strong French skills to support bilingualism. |
Healthcare and Social Services |
Addressing shortages in healthcare and social service occupations. |
Agriculture and Agri-food |
Filling labour gaps in farming and food production. |
STEM Occupations |
Attracting professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. |
Trades Occupations |
Skilled workers in construction, manufacturing, and technical trades. |
Education Occupations |
New category targeting educators and support staff. |
Major Changes to Express Entry Categories in 2025
Healthcare and Social Services Occupations
The following occupations have been added to this category:
Job Title |
NOC Code |
TEER Level |
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians |
32104 |
2 |
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists |
32123 |
2 |
Dental hygienists and dental therapists |
32111 |
2 |
Other medical technologists and technicians |
32129 |
2 |
Pharmacists |
31120 |
1 |
Pharmacy technicians |
32124 |
2 |
Social and community service workers |
42201 |
2 |
Social workers |
41300 |
1 |
Trades Occupations
New additions to the Trades category include:
Job Title |
NOC Code |
TEER Level |
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling services |
82021 |
2 |
Floor covering installers |
73113 |
3 |
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) |
73112 |
3 |
Roofers and shinglers |
73110 |
3 |
Concrete finishers |
73100 |
3 |
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics |
72401 |
2 |
Industrial electricians |
72201 |
2 |
Construction managers |
70010 |
0 |
Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations
The following roles have been added to this category:
Job Title |
NOC Code |
TEER Level |
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping and horticulture |
82031 |
2 |
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors |
82030 |
2 |
Education Occupations (New Category)
To qualify for the new Education category, candidates must:
Added Occupations:
Job Title |
NOC Code |
TEER Level |
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants |
43100 |
3 |
Instructors of persons with disabilities |
42203 |
2 |
Early childhood educators and assistants |
42202 |
2 |
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers |
41221 |
1 |
Secondary school teachers |
41220 |
1 |
Why These Changes Matter
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Labour Market Alignment: The updates ensure that Canada’s immigration system meets the country’s economic and labour market needs.
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Support for Francophone Communities: French-language proficiency draws promote bilingualism and support Francophone immigration targets.
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Diversity and Inclusion: By targeting specific sectors, Canada continues to welcome skilled workers from diverse backgrounds.
Conclusion
The Express Entry 2025 updates reflect Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled immigrants who can contribute to its economy and address labour shortages. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, tradesperson, educator, or STEM expert, these changes open new pathways to permanent residency. Stay informed and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for your desired category to maximize your chances of success.
For more updates on Canada’s immigration policies, follow IRCC’s official announcements or consult with a certified immigration consultant.
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