Comprehensive Guide to Occupations Eligible for Targeted Express Entry Draws in 2025
Table of Contents
- Overview of Category-Based Draws
- Healthcare and Social Services Occupations
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations
- Trade Occupations
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations
- Education Occupations
- What Does This Mean for Express Entry Candidates?
1. Overview of Category-Based Draws
Category-based draws are a targeted approach within Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, designed to address Canada’s specific labor market needs. These draws prioritize candidates with specific work experience, skills, or language proficiency that align with Canada’s current economic demands.
2. Healthcare and Social Services Occupations
Healthcare professionals continue to be in high demand across Canada. The updated 2025 categories include a wide array of healthcare and social service occupations that are eligible for targeted Express Entry draws. These roles address the increasing need for healthcare professionals in Canada’s growing medical and social support sectors.
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Animal Health Technologists and Veterinary Technicians | 32104 |
| Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists | 31112 |
| Cardiology Technologists and Electrophysiological Diagnostic Technologists | 32123 |
| Chiropractors | 31201 |
| Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists | 32111 |
| Dentists | 31110 |
| Dieticians and Nutritionists | 31121 |
| General Practitioners and Family Physicians | 31102 |
| Licensed Practical Nurses | 32101 |
| Massage Therapists | 32201 |
| Medical Laboratory Technologists | 32120 |
| Medical Radiation Technologists | 32121 |
| Medical Sonographers | 32122 |
| Nurse Practitioners | 31302 |
| Pharmacists | 31120 |
| Physiotherapists | 31202 |
| Social Workers | 41300 |
| Veterinarians | 31103 |
3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations
With the rapid pace of technological advancements and innovation, Canada’s economy is heavily reliant on skilled workers in the STEM fields. The 2025 targeted Express Entry draws include various engineering, scientific, and tech-related professions.
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineers | 21300 |
| Cybersecurity Specialists | 21220 |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineers | 21310 |
| Mechanical Engineers | 21301 |
| Industrial Engineers | 21321 |
| Geological Engineers | 21331 |
| Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22300 |
| Electrical Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22310 |
4. Trade Occupations
The trades sector is essential to Canada’s economy, especially in construction and maintenance. With continued growth in infrastructure projects, tradespeople remain in high demand. As part of the 2025 targeted draws, the following skilled trades are included.
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Contractors and Supervisors, Oil and Gas Drilling and Services | 82021 |
| Electricians | 72200 |
| Welders and Related Machine Operators | 72106 |
| Carpenters | 72310 |
| Plumbers | 72300 |
| Construction Managers | 70010 |
| Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics | 72401 |
5. Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations
Canada’s agricultural industry is an important pillar of its economy, and there is a strong demand for skilled workers in farming, food production, and related industries. In 2025, agri-food workers will be targeted for Express Entry draws.
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Butchers – Retail and Wholesale | 63201 |
6. Education Occupations
The demand for skilled educators in Canada continues to rise, particularly in primary, secondary, and special needs education. The newly introduced education category in the 2025 Express Entry draws will focus on attracting talented teaching professionals.
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants | 43100 |
| Instructors of Persons with Disabilities | 42203 |
| Early Childhood Educators and Assistants | 42202 |
| Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers | 41221 |
| Secondary School Teachers | 41220 |
7. What Does This Mean for Express Entry Candidates?
For candidates seeking permanent residency in Canada through the Express Entry system, these targeted category-based draws present a unique opportunity. If you possess experience or qualifications in any of these in-demand sectors, your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency are significantly increased.
It’s important for applicants to stay up-to-date with the Express Entry program’s developments and ensure that their profile meets the eligibility criteria for their desired occupation. By understanding the specific needs of the Canadian labor market, candidates can better tailor their applications and improve their chances of success in the Express Entry draws.
These category-based draws provide a fantastic opportunity for skilled workers from various fields. If you’re in a high-demand occupation, this could be the perfect time to apply for Canadian permanent residency!
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
