Express Entry launches historic sweepstakes for education and technical trades

Good news for professionals dreaming of immigrating to Canada! After four months, educators have been invited back through the Express Entry system and, in an unprecedented development for this year, the technicaltrades have received their first round of 2025Invitations to Apply (ITAs).

September brings more than 9,000 ITAs issued as of the date of this publication. This figure demonstrates that the Canadian government is looking to fill its most pressing labor needs with foreign talent.

Let's take a closer look at these two historical sweepstakes. If you have doubts in the process, read to the end and write down the key recommendations to make your application a success. Let's get started!

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Education Occupations Sweepstakes (September 17, 2025)
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On September 17, Immigration Canada held draw #367, inviting candidates with work experience in the education sector. 

2500 Invitations to Apply (ITA) were issued with a minimum CRS score of 462. 

This draw targeted a specific list of occupations, including (but not limited to) high school teachers, elementary and kindergarten teachers, and early childhood educators. This is the lowest score seen this year for an occupations-based category (outside of francophone draws), demonstrating that Canada is stepping up its efforts to attract these professionals.

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Drawing for TechnicalTrades (September 18, 2025)

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A day later, on September 18, draw #368 focused on trade occupations, which includes technical trades. A total of 1250 ITAs were submitted with a minimum CRS score of 505. 

This lottery covered a wide range oftrades, such as contractors, oil and gas drillers, cooks, painters, roofers and mechanics, among others. Although the score was higher than that of education, it is still competitive for professionals with solid profiles in these areas. 

More than 1,000 ITAs in this category is indicative of the need for skilled workers in these trades.

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Received an ITA: what now?

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If your profile meets the criteria and you have received an ITA, you are on the right track, but you have some way to go. You now have 60 days from the date of the ITA to accept the invitation and submit your complete application for permanent residence. It is important to act quickly and follow these recommendations:

• Gather digital copies of your passport, language test results, Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), employment reference letters, police certificates and proof of settlement funds.
• Have your medical examination performed by an IRCC-licensed panel of physicians.
• Pay the processing fees and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF).
• Pre-check all your information before submitting it and submit it as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• After you submit your application, IRCC will send you a letter asking you to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. You will have 30 days to complete this step.

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What to do if you do not receive an ITA?

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If you were not selected in the September drawings, don't be discouraged. Your profile will remain in the Express Entry system for 12 months, giving you valuable time to improve your score and increase your chances. Follow these recommendations to improve your profile:

• Retake your language test. This is often the fastest and most effective way to increase your CRS score. Raising your level on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) could add up to 50 points. If you are bilingual, consider taking a French test for extra points.
• Get more work experience. If you have less than three years of experience, adding one more year can significantly increase your points in the system.
• Consider a provincial nomination (PNP). This is the most effective way to receive an ITA, as a provincial nomination gives you an extra 600 points. Find out if any provinces have a program that suits your occupation and experience.
• Enhance your educational credentials. If you are able, consider pursuing higher education, such as a master's degree, or a credential evaluation of an additional degree you hold.

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I hope this topic is helpful for your permanent residency process through Express Entry. There are still draws to be made this year and the categories are taking an important place in the system.

If you wish to evaluate your immigration profile with an Immiland Canada regulated consultant, you can fill out this form or schedule a consultation directly here.

Thanks for reading, see you soon!

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With love, 

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Immiland Canada