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.