Author: KBI Team

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) recently unveiled a list of occupations that are predicted to face significant shortages until 2033. This forecast, based on data from the Economic Policy Directorate (EPD) and the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), offers a clear picture of the challenges—and opportunities—ahead for job seekers and employers.

From healthcare to construction, here’s a deep dive into the most in-demand roles that will shape Canada’s workforce over the next decade.

A Labour Market Under Pressure: Key Insights
Canada is projected to have 8.1 million job openings by 2033, split between:

• 2.6 million new jobs driven by economic growth.
• 5.5 million replacement jobs due to retirements, particularly among baby boomers.

Replacement demand accounts for 68.1% of these job openings, highlighting the need to fill positions left by an aging workforce. Most of these roles will require post-secondary education or management skills, emphasizing the value of skilled labor.

While the supply of job seekers (8.2 million) seems to match demand, over 100 occupations will face shortages, making them highly competitive. Meanwhile, 17 occupations may experience surplus, especially in arts and culture sectors.

Top 100 Occupations Facing Shortages Until 2033

Healthcare: The Beating Heart of Canada’s Labour Crisis
Healthcare has 38 occupations at risk, reflecting Canada’s aging population and rising demand for medical services. These are:

• Specialists in Clinical Medicine (NOC 31100)
• Specialists in Surgery (NOC 31101)
• General Practitioners (NOC 31102)
• Veterinarians (NOC 31103)
• Dentists (NOC 31110)
• Optometrists (NOC 31111)
• Audiologists (NOC 31112)
• Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
• Dietitians (NOC 31121)
• Psychologists (NOC 31200)
• Chiropractors (NOC 31201)
• Physiotherapists (NOC 31202)
• Occupational Therapists (NOC 31203)
• Other Health Diagnosing Professions (NOC 31209)
• Nursing Coordinators (NOC 31300)
• Registered Nurses (NOC 31301)
• Nurse Practitioners (NOC 31302)
• Physician Assistants (NOC 31303)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)
• Paramedics (NOC 32102)
• Respiratory Therapists (NOC 32103)
• Animal Health Technologists (NOC 32104)
• Other Therapy Technicians (NOC 32109)
• Dental Hygienists (NOC 32111)
• Medical Lab Technologists (NOC 32120)
• Medical Radiation Technologists (NOC 32121)
• Medical Sonographers (NOC 32122)
• Cardiology Technologists (NOC 32123)
• Pharmacy Technicians (NOC 32124)
• Other Medical Technicians (NOC 32129)
• Massage Therapists (NOC 32201)
• Medical Lab Assistants (NOC 33101)
• Nurse Aides (NOC 33102)
• Pharmacy Assistants (NOC 33103)

Natural and Applied Sciences: Innovators in Demand
This sector, with 12 flagged occupations, reflects Canada’s focus on tech, engineering, and sustainability:

• Architecture and Science Managers (NOC 20011)
• Cybersecurity Specialists (NOC 21220)
• Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
• Mechanical Engineers (NOC 21301)
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC 21310)
• Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers (NOC 21321)
• Geological Engineers (NOC 21331)
• Civil Engineering Technologists (NOC 22300)
• Mechanical Engineering Technologists (NOC 22301)
• Construction Estimators (NOC 22303)
• Electrical Engineering Technologists (NOC 22310)
• Aircraft Mechanics and Inspectors (NOC 22313)

Trades, Construction, and Transportation: Building Canada’s Future
The construction sector has 25 occupations, driven by housing demand and infrastructure growth:

• Construction Managers (NOC 70010)
• Home Renovation Managers (NOC 70011)
• Machinists (NOC 72100)
• Sheet Metal Workers (NOC 72102)
• Welders (NOC 72106)
• Electricians (NOC 72200)
• Industrial Electricians (NOC 72201)
• Plumbers (NOC 72300)
• Gas Fitters (NOC 72302)
• Carpenters (NOC 72310)
• Cabinetmakers (NOC 72311)
• Bricklayers (NOC 72320)
• Millwrights (NOC 72400)
• Heavy-Duty Mechanics (NOC 72401)
• HVAC Mechanics (NOC 72402)
• Aircraft Mechanics (NOC 72404)
• Automotive Technicians (NOC 72410)
• Electrical Mechanics (NOC 72422)
• Water Well Drillers (NOC 72501)
• Air Pilots (NOC 72600)
• Other Technical Trades (NOC 72999)
• Concrete Finishers (NOC 73100)
• Roofers (NOC 73110)
• Painters (NOC 73112)
• Floor Installers (NOC 73113)
• Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 73300)
• Water Transport Crew (NOC 74201)
• Construction Helpers (NOC 75110)

 Education and Social Services: Shaping Minds and Communities
11 occupations in this category signal the growing need for educators and caregivers:

• Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220)
• Elementary Teachers (NOC 41221)
• Social Workers (NOC 41300)
• Therapists in Counselling (NOC 41301)
• Police Officers (NOC 42100)
• Firefighters (NOC 42101)
• Social Service Workers (NOC 42201)
• Early Childhood Educators (NOC 42202)
• Disability Instructors (NOC 42203)
• Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)
• Home Support Workers (NOC 44101)

Natural Resources and Agriculture
Canada’s resources sector highlights 6 key occupations:

• Oil and Gas Supervisors (NOC 82021)
• Livestock Workers (NOC 84120)
• Livestock Labourers (NOC 85100)
• Harvesting Labourers (NOC 85101)
• Greenhouse Labourers (NOC 85103)
• Mine Labourers (NOC 85110)

 Sales and Service
This category includes 5 in-demand occupations, ranging from retail to insurance:

• Insurance Agents (NOC 63100)
• Cooks (NOC 63200)
• Butchers (NOC 63201)
• Postal Services Reps (NOC 64401)

Manufacturing and Utilities
Manufacturing lists 7 occupations, spanning from industrial butchers to metal fabricators:

• Paper Machine Operators (NOC 94122)
• Industrial Butchers (NOC 94141)
• Fish Plant Workers (NOC 94142)
• Electrical Assemblers (NOC 94203)
• Metal Fabrication Labourers (NOC 95101)
• Wood Processing Labourers (NOC 95103)
• Food Processing Labourers (NOC 95106)
• Fish Processing Labourers (NOC 95107)

What’s Next for Canada?

As healthcare, trades, and technology sectors face severe shortages, employers must innovate by offering better wages, training, and more accessible career pathways. For job seekers, these occupations represent secure, future-proof career opportunities.

Kingsbridge Immigration can help you navigate Canada’s job market, offering guidance on immigration programs that align with in-demand occupations. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in securing a brighter future in Canada.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced updates to the Express Entry system for 2025, including the introduction of a new category and changes to existing occupation lists, which became effective on February 27, 2025.

These changes confirm predictions made in July 2024 regarding new categories for education occupations.

Express Entry, Canada’s primary immigration pathway for skilled workers, operates through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The category-based selection introduced in 2023 now expands to better address labor shortages and demographic goals, while also supporting Canada’s bilingual identity.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Express Entry Changes

1. New Category Introduced: Education Occupations

The Education category, predicted by INC (Immigration News Canada), has been added to target teachers, educators, and support staff essential to Canada’s education sector.

2. Transport Category Removed

Reflecting evolving labor market needs, the transport category has been removed from the system.

3. Expanded Healthcare and Social Services

Eight new occupations, including pharmacists and social workers, have been added to address labor shortages, while six less-relevant roles were removed.

2025 Priority Categories for Express Entry Draws

The following four categories have been prioritized for Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in 2025, as predicted by INC:

• • French-language proficiency
• • Healthcare and Social Services
• • Trades occupations
• • Education occupations

These categories will see more frequent and targeted draws to meet Canada’s strategic workforce goals.

Who’s Eligible for Category-Based Express Entry Draws?

To qualify for an ITA through a category-based round, candidates must meet the Express Entry eligibility criteria for one of these three programs:

• • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Candidates must also satisfy the specific requirements for the category in that draw round.

How Category-Based Express Entry Draws Work

IRCC ranks candidates in the Express Entry pool based on CRS scores, with top-ranking candidates receiving ITAs for permanent residence. For example, a high-scoring secondary school teacher might be selected in an Education category draw, while a pharmacist could benefit from a Healthcare draw.

What Do These Changes Mean for Applicants?

Opportunities

• • Educators: The new Education category creates more opportunities for teachers and educational assistants.
• • Trades Workers: Expanded trades occupations increase chances for skilled laborers.
• • French Speakers: Bilingual candidates continue to benefit from a focus on French proficiency.

Challenges

• • Transport Workers: With the removal of the transport category, workers in this sector will need to rely on general draws.
• • STEM Professionals: The removal of 19 STEM-related occupations means stiffer competition for tech workers in non-category draws.

Your Path to Canada in 2025

These changes reflect Canada’s adaptive approach to immigration, ensuring its policies align with economic needs, labor market demands, and cultural priorities. Whether you’re a teacher, tradesperson, or French speaker, understanding these updates can help you optimize your Express Entry profile and improve your chances of securing permanent residency.

Ready to make Canada your home in 2025? Keep track of these changes, adjust your Express Entry strategy, and stay informed through Kingsbridge Immigration! Your trusted partner in navigating Canadian immigration pathways.

If you’re eyeing Canadian permanent residency, you’re probably curious about what the future holds for Express Entry in 2025. The big question: Will CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) scores drop, creating more opportunities for hopeful immigrants? Let’s dive into what we know and what to expect! 

Canada’s Immigration Goals for 2025 

Canada’s immigration plan for 2025 is ambitious, with higher targets set for welcoming skilled workers, families, and other immigrants to support economic growth. These increased targets could influence Express Entry CRS scores, potentially creating more opportunities for applicants. 

Factors That Could Lower CRS Scores in 2025 

1.Category-Based Draws: 

Introduced recently, category-specific draws target candidates in fields like healthcare, tech, and trades. These draws often have lower CRS cut-offs compared to all-program draws, opening doors for skilled workers in high-demand sectors. 

2.Larger Draws: 

With Canada aiming to meet higher immigration targets, 2025 could see larger draws, which might lead to lower CRS cut-offs to include more candidates. 

3.Increased PNP Nominations: 

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are growing in importance. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, and as provinces nominate more candidates, the overall CRS thresholds in regular draws could shift downward. 

Challenges That May Keep Scores High 

1.Competitive Applicant Pool: 

As awareness of Express Entry grows globally, the pool of highly qualified candidates continues to expand, which could maintain or increase CRS cut-offs. 

2.Changes in Policy: 

Any updates to immigration policies, including CRS scoring criteria, could impact the thresholds in unexpected ways. 

How to Stay Competitive in 2025 

Regardless of CRS score trends, here’s how you can strengthen your Express Entry profile: 

• Improve Language Scores: Boosting IELTS or CELPIP results can make a significant difference. 

• Get a Provincial Nomination: Explore PNP options for your profession or skills. 

• Enhance Work Experience: Gain additional skilled or Canadian work experience if possible. 

• Stay Updated: Keep track of Express Entry changes and adapt your strategy accordingly. 

While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, 2025 could offer exciting opportunities for Express Entry candidates, especially with Canada’s focus on targeted immigration and increasing skilled worker intakes. Whether CRS scores drop or not, preparing your profile and staying informed will always give you the best chance of success. 

Are you ready to turn your Canadian dream into reality? Start planning now for Express Entry in 2025! 

If you’ve submitted your Express Entry application and are anxiously awaiting updates, delays can feel incredibly frustrating. Understanding why your application might be taking longer than expected can help you stay informed and prepared. Let’s dive into the potential reasons behind the wait. 

1. High Volume of Applications 

Canada’s Express Entry system is one of the most popular pathways for skilled workers to immigrate. With thousands of applications received annually, processing times can be affected by the sheer volume of submissions. If there has been a surge in applications, it might take longer for yours to be reviewed. 

2. Complex Background Checks 

Immigration officers perform thorough background checks to ensure all information provided is accurate and complete. This includes verifying your work experience, education credentials, and security clearances. If your case requires additional scrutiny or involves multiple countries, the process can take longer. 

3. Incomplete Documentation 

If any documents are missing or unclear, immigration officers may need to request additional information. This can significantly delay processing times. Double-checking your application for completeness before submission is crucial to avoid this pitfall. 

4. Program-Specific Delays 

Some programs under the Express Entry system, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), require additional approvals. If you’re nominated through a province, their processing time can add extra weeks or months to your wait. 

5. System Updates or Technical Issues 

Occasionally, IRCC updates their systems or experiences technical issues that temporarily slow down processing. While these disruptions are usually brief, they can contribute to delays. 

What Can You Do About Delays? 

• Check Processing Times: Visit the official IRCC website to get the most recent updates on processing times for your application type. 

• Monitor Your Application: Regularly log in to your online profile to check for any requests for additional information or updates on your application status. 

• Respond Promptly: If IRCC requests additional documents or clarifications, ensure you respond quickly and accurately to avoid further delays. 

• Consider Seeking Help: If delays persist without explanation, consider reaching out to an immigration consultant or lawyer for advice. 

Stay Patient and Positive 

Delays in Express Entry processing can be disheartening, but they are often due to thorough reviews ensuring fairness and accuracy. Stay proactive by monitoring your application, responding promptly to requests, and keeping up with the latest updates from IRCC. Your Canadian dream is still within reach—sometimes, it just takes a little extra patience. 

Are you considering applying for Canada’s Express Entry system for the first time? It might feel overwhelming, but with the right information and mindset, you can navigate the process with ease. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored to first-time applicants: 

Step 1: Understand the Programs Under Express Entry 

Express Entry isn’t a one-size-fits-all system. It manages applications for three distinct programs: 

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Ideal for those with significant work experience and education. 

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Tailored for individuals in skilled trades like construction, manufacturing, or plumbing. 

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Perfect for those with Canadian work experience. 

Identifying the program that suits you best is the first critical step. 

Step 2: Know the Eligibility Requirements 

Every program under Express Entry has its specific requirements. These include language proficiency, education credentials, and work experience. Familiarize yourself with these details to ensure you meet the minimum standards. 

Step 3: Focus on Building a Strong CRS Profile 

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) evaluates candidates based on factors like age, language proficiency, education, and work experience. Take time to: 

–Achieve high scores in your IELTS or CELPIP tests. 

–Validate your education through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). 

–Gain relevant work experience in your field. 

–A competitive CRS score is your ticket to receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). 

Step 4: Be Strategic with Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) 

Many provinces in Canada have streams aligned with Express Entry. If you meet the criteria for a specific Provincial Nominee Program, you can earn an additional 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA. 

Step 5: Stay Updated and Be Patient 

The Express Entry system updates frequently, with category-specific draws and changing cut-off scores. Staying informed about these updates and maintaining patience throughout the process is crucial. 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid 

• Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents. 

• Relying solely on Express Entry without exploring PNPs. 

• Ignoring updates or deadlines. 

Applying for Express Entry as a first-timer can seem daunting, but with careful preparation, you can boost your chances of success. Stay informed, be strategic, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your dream of Canadian residency. 

Ready to take the leap? Start your journey with confidence today!

Canada offers multiple immigration pathways tailored to meet different needs, and two popular options are Express Entry and Spousal Sponsorship. Both lead to permanent residency but cater to distinct situations. Let’s explore these pathways to help you determine which one is the best fit for your journey. 

Express Entry: For Skilled Workers 

The Express Entry system is designed for skilled workers who wish to contribute to Canada’s economy. It’s a point-based system that assesses candidates on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. 

Key Features: 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• Skilled work experience in occupations under NOC TEER categories. 

• Minimum language proficiency (CLB 7 for Federal Skilled Worker Program). 

• Proof of funds to settle in Canada (unless you have a valid job offer). 

Application Process: 

• Create an Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates. 

• Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. 

• Invitations to Apply (ITA) are issued to top-ranking candidates in periodic draws. 

Advantages: 

• Fast processing times (as little as 6 months). 

• High transparency and predictability. 

• Opportunity to apply for jobs in Canada even before receiving an ITA. 

Ideal for: 

Individuals with strong professional qualifications and language skills who want a merit-based pathway to Canada. 

Spousal Sponsorship: Reuniting Families 

Spousal Sponsorship is part of Canada’s Family Class immigration stream, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner. 

Key Features: 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. 

• Both the sponsor and applicant must prove the genuineness of their relationship. 

Application Process: 

• Submit an application with proof of relationship (e.g., photos, joint bank accounts, communication records). 

• The process can be conducted from within Canada (Inland) or outside (Outland). 

Advantages: 

• Does not require CRS scores, work experience, or language tests. 

• Focuses solely on the relationship. 

• Provides Open Work Permits for Inland applicants while awaiting a decision. 

Ideal for: 

Married or partnered individuals wanting to reunite with their loved ones in Canada. 

Choosing the Right Pathway 

Your choice between Express Entry and Spousal Sponsorship depends on your circumstances: 

For professionals: If you have a strong educational background, relevant work experience, and language proficiency, Express Entry offers a fast-track option to Canada. 

For families: If you’re married or in a genuine relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, Spousal Sponsorship is your best route. 

When both apply: If you qualify for Express Entry but also have a Canadian spouse, you can explore both options simultaneously to maximize your chances of success. 

Canada’s immigration system is designed to accommodate diverse needs, whether you’re a skilled worker looking for opportunities or a partner seeking to reunite with your loved one. Understanding the differences between Express Entry and Spousal Sponsorship will help you make an informed decision and set you on the right path to achieving your Canadian dream. 

Need expert advice? Reach out today to discuss your options and start your immigration journey! 

When it comes to immigrating to Canada, you’ve probably heard about Express Entry as the fast-track option. But what about Non-Express Entry pathways? Let’s break down the differences, so you can decide which route aligns with your goals and circumstances. 

What Is Express Entry? 

Express Entry is Canada’s online system for managing applications for permanent residency under three key programs: 

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) 

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) 

It’s a competitive, points-based system where candidates with higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws. 

What Is Non-Express Entry? 

Non-Express Entry includes pathways that operate outside the CRS-based system, such as: 

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some streams aren’t linked to Express Entry. 

• Family Sponsorship: Allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor family members. 

• Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: For individuals with compelling personal circumstances. 

• Refugee Streams: For those seeking asylum. 
   

How Quickly Can You Immigrate? 

Express Entry: The processing time is typically around 6 months for complete applications, making it one of the fastest routes. 

Non-Express Entry: Timelines vary. PNP streams may take longer, and Family Sponsorship applications can take over a year. 
 

Who Can Apply? 

Express Entry: Ideal for skilled workers with education, language proficiency, and work experience. 

Non-Express Entry: Suitable for individuals who don’t meet CRS criteria but qualify through PNPs, family ties, or unique circumstances. 
 

Do You Have Options? 

Express Entry: Focuses on federal programs, but some PNP streams are linked to it. 

Non-Express Entry: Offers more varied pathways for applicants who may not meet Express Entry requirements. 

Advantages of Express Entry 

• Faster processing times. 

• Transparent and predictable system. 

• Opportunities for additional points (e.g., provincial nominations, job offers). 
   

Advantages of Non-Express Entry 

• Broader eligibility criteria for family members or humanitarian cases. 

• Greater opportunity for lower CRS candidates through non-Express Entry PNPs. 

• More tailored to individual circumstances. 
   

Which Path Should You Choose? 

If you’re a skilled worker with strong language proficiency and work experience, Express Entry is often the quickest and most efficient choice. However, if you have family ties in Canada, or don’t meet the CRS thresholds, Non-Express Entry options may better suit your situation. 

Choosing between Express Entry and Non-Express Entry depends on your qualifications, timeline, and goals. Both pathways offer incredible opportunities to build your future in Canada. Ready to take the next step? Explore your options today!