May 1 Express Entry Draw Invites 1,000 in Education Occupations

Canada Targets Skilled Educators in May 1 Express Entry Draw

On May 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a category-based Express Entry draw targeting education-related occupations, issuing 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.

This marked Round #344 of invitations under the Express Entry system and reflects Canada’s ongoing strategy to address sector-specific labor shortages. The draw focused on professionals in educational roles such as early childhood educators, school teachers, and teacher assistants. These occupations are considered critical to the country’s long-term socioeconomic development and demographic sustainability.

Key Details of the Draw:

  • Date of draw: May 1, 2025

  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate: 479

  • Number of ITAs issued: 1,000

  • Category: Education Occupations (Version 1)

  • Tie-breaking rule: Profiles submitted before August 10, 2024, at 10:35:55 UTC

  • Eligible programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program

Who Was Eligible?

To be eligible, applicants must have had at least six months of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in one of the following occupations within the past three years:

  • Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202)

  • Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)

  • Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221)

  • Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220)

  • Instructors of Persons with Disabilities (NOC 42203)

The draw specifically excludes any period of unauthorized work in Canada. In addition, applicants must have performed the main and essential duties listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system for their eligible job title.

Why This Matters

Canada’s reliance on newcomers to support the education system is growing. With teacher shortages in multiple provinces and an increasing population of young learners, attracting qualified educators is crucial. Through targeted draws like this one, IRCC ensures that immigration aligns with labor market needs.

If you’re a skilled professional in education and want to learn how to enter Canada’s permanent residence pathway, Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. can help you assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process. We offer customized immigration solutions tailored to your career background.