The Canadian Immigration Department broadens the “Express Entry” categories for permanent residence applicants. Canada continues to prioritize immigration as a key driver of economic growth.
This is why recognizing the evolving labour market demands, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of IRCC, has unveiled the 2025 Express Entry categories. This year’s selection includes a new “Education” category to address long-term labour shortages and align immigration with Canada’s economic needs.
“Canada’s Express Entry system is evolving to meet the country’s changing needs. By addressing labour shortages, strengthening our economy, and increasing Francophone immigration, we are building a more dynamic workforce with workers and professionals from in-demand fields. Our approach ensures immigration remains a key driver of Canada’s growth, helping businesses thrive while supporting communities across the country.”
— Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Highlights of the 2025 Express Entry Categories
For 2025, the federal economic immigration program will focus on inviting candidates from the Canadian Experience Class to apply for permanent residence. Additionally, category-based invitation rounds will be held to address critical shortages in key sectors, including:
- Francophone immigration: Prioritizing candidates with strong French language skills.
- Work experience in essential fields:
- Health care and social services (e.g., family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, chiropractors).
- Trades (e.g., carpenters, plumbers, contractors).
- Education (e.g., teachers, child care educators, instructors for persons with disabilities).
These initiatives aim to sustain economic growth, ensure a well-managed immigration system, and address priority sector needs such as health care, construction, and education.
Sector-Based Immigration Priorities
To better understand the focus areas for the 2025 Express Entry draws, the following table provides an overview of key priority sectors and the targeted immigration categories:
| Sector | Key Roles in Demand | Selection Criteria |
| Health Care | Family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists | Work experience in relevant fields |
| Trades | Carpenters, plumbers, contractors | Skilled trades experience |
| Education | Teachers, child care educators, disability instructors | Experience in the education sector |
| Francophone | Various professions | Strong French language proficiency |
Education Category Occupations
Following occupations have been added to the education category for the express entry draws:
- Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
- NOC Code: 43100
- TEER Level: 3
- Instructors of persons with disabilities
- NOC Code: 42203
- TEER Level: 2
- Early childhood educators and assistants
- NOC Code: 42202
- TEER Level: 2
- Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
- NOC Code: 41221
- TEER Level: 1
- Secondary school teachers
- NOC Code: 41220
- TEER Level: 1
Supporting Francophone Immigration
Canada remains committed to strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec. Express Entry will continue prioritizing candidates with strong French language proficiency, reinforcing the government’s dedication to fostering economic vitality among Francophone populations.
A Sustainable Immigration Approach
By adjusting immigration policies, Canada aims to balance growth with sustainability. These changes support businesses, enhance workforce dynamics, and facilitate the transition of temporary residents to permanent status.
Canada’s 2025 immigration strategy aims to strengthen economic prosperity by addressing workforce gaps in critical sectors. The focus on skilled professionals, Francophone immigration, and Canadian work experience ensures a streamlined, effective system that benefits businesses and communities nationwide.