As countries adapt their immigration programs to address labor shortages and support aging populations, Canada is taking a significant step forward in 2025 with updates to its immigration policies.
Understanding Express Entry
If you are planning to submit your application for Express Entry, it is crucial to understand these changes and how they impact your eligibility and application process.
Express Entry is a point-based immigration system with three main categories:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Additionally, within Express Entry, there are Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs are designed to address labor shortages in specific provinces. Most PNPs require applicants to have a valid Express Entry profile before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to a particular province.
Occupation-Specific Draws
In 2023, Canada introduced occupation-targeted draws, prioritizing applicants with skilled work experience in high-demand fields. These targeted occupations include:
Healthcare
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Trade
Transport
Agriculture
French-speaking professionals
French-Speaking Candidates in Demand
Canada prioritizes bilingualism, with some provinces requiring more French-speaking immigrants to maintain their linguistic balance. As a result, many provinces are selecting French-speaking candidates to contribute to their communities and workforce.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
While PNPs operate within the federal Express Entry system, provinces have their own rules and requirements that evolve based on labor market needs. Staying updated on these changes is essential to maximizing your chances of selection.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class is tailored for individuals who have gained at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. If you are in Canada on a valid temporary status and working in a skilled occupation, this program could be your pathway to permanent residency.
More Opportunities Through Targeted Draws
With ongoing immigration changes and targeted draws, applicants now have increased opportunities to be selected for permanent residency.
How We Can Help
We can help you determine your eligibility, guide you through the application process, and keep you updated on the latest immigration changes! Contact us today to explore your options.
