Canada Announces New Express Entry Category to Reduce Skill Shortages in March 2025

Canada announces updates to its Express Entry system for 2025 to facilitate the transfer of temporary residents to permanent status. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that the 2025 Express Entry categories will include a new education category and a major move towards in-Canada draws.

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, states that “Canada’s Express Entry system is changing to meet the country’s changing needs.” “We are creating a more dynamic workforce by tackling labor shortages, bolstering our economy, and boosting Francophone immigration.”

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What Are the Updates of the 2025 Express Entry?

• A greater emphasis on in-Canada draws: The strategy for 2025 will place a strong emphasis on welcoming applicants from the Canadian Experience Class, giving preference to individuals who are already making contributions to the Canadian economy.
• New Education Category: To address the severe shortages in this field, a special category for education professionals—such as teachers, child care educators, and instructors for people with disabilities—will be established.
• Draws Based on Targeted Categories: The IRCC will hold special invitation rounds for applicants who possess:
  • strong command of the French language.
  • experience working in social services and health care (e.g., doctors, nurses, dentists).
  • experience working as a carpenter, plumber, or contractor, for example.
• Continued Focus on Francophone Immigration: By giving preference to applicants who speak French well, Canada underlines its commitment to strengthening Francophone communities outside of Quebec.
• Priority Sectors: Education, building, and health care continue to be major areas of emphasis, reflecting Canada’s need for skilled professionals in these sectors.\

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What Does This Mean for International Workers?

This significant change means that Canada is aggressively looking for qualified professionals who can boost its economy right away.

Since almost all of Canada’s labor force growth is due to immigration, these reforms represent a calculated move to ensure Canada’s economic future. Applications from skilled professionals throughout the world are expected to soar as a result of the new education category and the increased emphasis on healthcare and trades.

Announcement: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2025/02/canada-announces-2025-express-entry-category-based-draws-plans-for-more-in-canada-draws-to-reduce-labour-shortages.html.