Canada Expands Express Entry Draws to Address Labour Shortages
On February 27, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major changes to the 2025 Express Entry system, introducing new category-based draws and prioritizing candidates with Canadian work experience. This update is a strategic move to fill labour gaps in healthcare, skilled trades, and education, ensuring Canada continues to attract the right talent for its growing economy.
If you’re considering immigrating to Canada, here’s everything you need to know about these updates and how they impact your chances of securing permanent residency (PR).
What’s Changing in Express Entry for 2025?
For 2025, IRCC has made key adjustments to its federal economic immigration class to streamline the process and address Canada’s evolving labour needs. The biggest changes include:
✅More In-Canada Express Entry Draws – Priority will be given to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants, making it easier for those already working in Canada to obtain PR.
✅New Education Category – A brand-new category has been introduced, aligning PR invitations with Canada’s long-term labour market demands.
✅Category-Based Invitations in High-Demand Sectors – Candidates with work experience in the following fields will receive priority invitations:
- Healthcare & Social Services – Family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals.
- Trades & Skilled Workers – Carpenters, plumbers, and general contractors.
- Education Professionals – Teachers, child care educators, and instructors for persons with disabilities.
- Francophone Candidates – Individuals with strong French language skills will be prioritized, particularly outside Quebec, to support Canada’s Francophone immigration targets.
By refining these categories, Canada ensures that its immigration system remains flexible, responsive, and aligned with economic priorities.
Why These Changes Matter for Immigration Applicants
🔹 Easier Pathway for Temporary Workers in Canada
The increased focus on Canadian work experience means that temporary residents, international graduates, and skilled workers already in Canada have a higher chance of obtaining PR.
🔹 More Opportunities for Healthcare and Trades Professionals
The demand for healthcare workers, educators, and skilled tradespeople is at an all-time high. If you have experience in these fields, you may receive an Express Entry invitation sooner than before.
🔹 Stronger French Language Advantage
If you have proficiency in French, your chances of receiving an invitation under Express Entry are significantly higher, especially if you plan to settle outside Quebec.
How to Improve Your Express Entry Profile for 2025
To increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the 2025 Express Entry draws, follow these steps:
- Gain Canadian Work Experience – If you’re an international student or temporary worker, aim to secure a job in a priority sector.
- Improve Your French Skills – Even if French is not your first language, boosting your language score can significantly improve your CRS points.
- Update Your Express Entry Profile – Ensure that your work experience, education, and language test results are current to qualify for the latest categories.
- Apply for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – Some provinces have PNP streams aligned with these new Express Entry categories, increasing your chances of selection.
Need Help with Your Express Entry Application?
Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, especially with new Express Entry changes in 2025. At Visaserve, we specialize in helping skilled professionals, temporary workers, and international graduates secure permanent residency in Canada.
Book a consultation today to assess your eligibility and start your journey towards Canadian PR!
