Canada updates Express Entry categories for 2025

In a recent announcement that caught the attention of many, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled updates to the Express Entry categories for this 2025. Among the most notable changes are the introduction of the new Education category, which includes five occupations, and the elimination of the Transportation category.

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In this blog, I will give details of this important change and how it opens up new opportunities for immigrants. Read with me to the end and take note of the current categories. Let's get started.

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Priority categories for 2025

The priority categories for 2025 will be:

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1. Proficiency in French
2. Occupations in the health and social services field
3. Commercial occupations
4. Educational occupations

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These categories will be given priority in invitations to submit applications to apply for permanent residence (ITA) through the Express Entry system. The Canadian government is focused on aligning the selection of federal economic immigrants with the country's long-term labor shortage.

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By 2025, federal economic class draws will be focused on inviting candidates with experience working in Canada (Canadian Experience Class) to apply for permanent residence.

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Changes in eligible occupations

In addition, changes were made to the eligible occupations within the existing categories. 

• In the health care and social services category, new occupations such as animal health technologists, dental hygienists and social workers were added, while others were eliminated. 

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• In the STEM category, occupations such as civil engineering technologists and mechanical engineers were added, and others such as architects and software developers were removed. 

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• In the trade category, occupations such as floor covering installers and cooks were added, and others such as builders and elevator mechanics were eliminated . 

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• Finally, in the agriculture and agri-food category, occupations such as agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors were added.

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Canada's economic and demographic objectives

These changes reflect Canada's economic and demographic objectives, and seek to meet labour market demand in critical areas. In addition, the French language proficiency category continues to promote bilingualism and French-speaking immigration outside Quebec.

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New opportunities for immigrants

Immigration accounts for nearly 100% of Canada's workforce growth, helping to address labour shortages in key sectors. With these updates, Canada opens new opportunities for immigrants and continues to strengthen its commitment to diversity and economic growth.

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How does Express Entry work?

Express Entry to Canada, better known as Express Entry, works through an online system used by Immigration to manage applications for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency while contributing their labour.

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There are three immigration programs administered by Express Entry:

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1. Canadian Experience Class
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program

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In general, to apply for Express Entry, qualified foreign nationals must:

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• Create a profile and join the group.
• Accumulate a high score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to be considered in the rounds.
• If the IRCC calls for an application, the candidate must fill it out and wait for the government to review it and make a decision.

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Recommendations for a successful Express Entry application in 2025

Below, I share three useful recommendations for quick entry to Canada:

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1. Preparation from the country of origin

Before you begin your application process, make sure you meet all the necessary requirements. This includes obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to validate your professional studies and demonstrating your English or French language skills through recognized tests such as IELTS or TEF. In addition, gather all necessary documentation, such as work certificates and criminal records, to avoid delays in the process.

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2. Learning French or improving your level

Proficiency in French can be a decisive factor in increasing your chances of success in Express Entry, especially if you apply for the French language proficiency category. One option to accelerate learning is to take French courses and practice regularly until you reach a minimum level of B2 (CLB 7). There are specific academic programs, such as General French and Mobilité Francophone, that prepare you for language exams and help you improve your language skills.

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3. Information on migratory routes

Familiarize yourself with the different immigration pathways available in the Express Entry system. There are three main programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). 

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In addition, consider the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), which allow Canadian provinces to select candidates based on their employment and demographic needs. Investigate which of these avenues best fits your profile and maximize your chances of success.

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I hope you find these recommendations useful and take advantage of the Express Entry updates this year. Thanks for reading, see you in the next blog!

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With love,

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Immiland Canada