Canada’s Express Entry system has undergone significant updates for 2025, introducing new categories and revising existing ones to better align with the nation’s economic needs.
These targeted draws focus on specific occupations across various sectors, offering streamlined pathways for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency. This article provides a detailed overview of the eligible occupations under each category.
Understanding Category-Based Express Entry Draws
Category-based selection within the Express Entry system allows Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to invite candidates with specific skills, language proficiencies, or work experience that meet Canada’s economic priorities. To qualify, candidates must:
- Meet the minimum criteria for Express Entry, including eligibility under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
- Possess at least six months of continuous, full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time experience) in an eligible occupation within the past three years.
- Satisfy all specific requirements outlined in the instructions for each round.
Full List of Occupations Eligible for Targeted Express Entry Draws 2025
The eligible occupations are categorized as follows:
- Healthcare and Social Services Category
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category
- Trade Category
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Category
- Education Category
1. Healthcare and Social Services Category
This category addresses the critical need for healthcare professionals and social service workers in Canada. Eligible occupations include:
- General practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102)
- Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses (NOC 31301)
- Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
- Social workers (NOC 41300)
- Psychologists (NOC 31200)
- Dentists (NOC 31110)
- Veterinarians (NOC 31103)
- Paramedical occupations (NOC 32102)
2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category
To foster innovation and technological advancement, Canada has identified key STEM occupations for targeted immigration. Eligible occupations include:
- Civil engineers (NOC 21300)
- Cybersecurity specialists (NOC 21220)
- Electrical and electronics engineers (NOC 21310)
- Mechanical engineers (NOC 21301)
- Industrial and manufacturing engineers (NOC 21321)
3. Trade Category
Skilled trades are vital to Canada’s infrastructure and development. Eligible occupations include:
- Electricians (NOC 72200)
- Plumbers (NOC 72300)
- Welders and related machine operators (NOC 72106)
- Carpenters (NOC 72310)
- Heavy-duty equipment mechanics (NOC 72401)
4. Agriculture and Agri-Food Category
Canada relies heavily on skilled workers in agriculture and agri-food sectors. Eligible occupations include:
- Agricultural service contractors, farm supervisors, and specialized livestock workers (NOC 82030)
- General farm workers (NOC 84120)
- Nursery and greenhouse workers (NOC 85103)
5. Education Category
Canada prioritizes educators to address labor shortages in the education sector. Eligible occupations include:
- Secondary school teachers (NOC 41220)
- Elementary school and kindergarten teachers (NOC 41221)
- College and vocational instructors (NOC 41210)
How to Apply for Express Entry in 2025
To apply for Express Entry under these categories, follow these steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the Express Entry criteria and have at least six months of work experience in a targeted occupation.
- Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your details, including language test scores and educational credentials.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected in a targeted draw, submit a complete application within 60 days.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Provide proof of work experience, education, and other necessary documents.
- Receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR): Once approved, prepare to move to Canada.
Canada’s 2025 Express Entry system prioritizes skilled professionals in high-demand sectors. If you work in healthcare, STEM, trades, agriculture, or education, this could be your opportunity for Canadian permanent residency.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of category-based Express Entry draws?
Category-based draws target specific high-demand occupations, allowing Canada to attract skilled workers who meet labor market needs more efficiently.
How can candidates qualify for targeted Express Entry draws?
Candidates must meet eligibility requirements under the Express Entry system and demonstrate work experience or language proficiency relevant to the selected category.
When will the new Express Entry categories take effect?
The updated targeted occupation categories will be implemented in 2025, with the first category-based draws expected to take place in early 2025.