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Monthly Archives: February 2025

February 28, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 27, 2025, IRCC announced significant changes to its Express Entry system, aiming to better align immigration policies with labor market demands and economic priorities. 

See below major highlights of the changes made to 2025 Express Entry:

  1. The new category announced in 2025 is Education.
  2. Transport is no longer listed under the category-based draws.
  3. IRCC has added a number of social services occupations to the healthcare category.
  4. IRCC has identified four key priority categories for Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in 2025 which include:
    • French-language proficiency
    • Healthcare and social service occupations
    • Trades occupations
    • Education occupations

Complete Overview of Express Entry Draw Categories for 2025

The 2025 updates involve more than just the addition or removal of categories. IRCC has refined the occupation lists in each category to better match Canada’s workforce demands. See below a detailed breakdown of the changes, showing recently included and removed occupations.

1. Healthcare and Social Services Occupations

The healthcare sector continues to be a key focus of Canada’s immigration strategy, driven by an aging population and the increasing need for medical and social support services.

See below 8 Occupations Added:

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians 32104 2
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists 32123 2
Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111 2
Other medical technologists and technicians 32129 2
Pharmacists 31120 1
Pharmacy technicians 32124 2
Social and community service workers 42201 2
Social workers 41300 1

6 Occupations Removed:

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Educational counsellors 41320 1
Instructors of persons with disabilities 42203 2
Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment 31204 1
Other assisting occupations in support of health services 33109 3
Other practitioners of natural healing 32209 2
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists 32200 2

2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations

STEM has experienced a notable decrease, with no new occupations added and a substantial 19 removed.

See below 19 Occupations removed:

Occupations Removed (19)

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Architects 21200 1
Business systems specialists 21221 1
Computer and information systems managers 20012 0
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) 21311 1
Computer systems developers and programmers 21230 1
Data scientists 21211 1
Database analysts and data administrators 21223 1
Engineering managers 20010 0
Information systems specialists 21222 1
Land surveyors 21203 1
Landscape Architects 21201 1
Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries 21210 1
Metallurgical and materials engineers 21322 1
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers 41400 1
Software developers and programmers 21232 1
Software engineers and designers 21231 1
Urban and land use planners 21202 1
Web designers 21233 1
Web developers and programmers 21234 1

3. Trades Occupations

Trades have undergone a major expansion, with 19 new occupations added to meet the growing demands of construction and infrastructure.

See below 19 Occupations added:

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services 82021 2
Floor covering installers 73113 3
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) 73112 3
Roofers and shinglers 73110 3
Concrete finishers 73100 3
Other technical trades and related occupations 72999 2
Water well drillers 72501 2
Electrical mechanics 72422 2
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics 72401 2
Bricklayers 72320 2
Cabinetmakers 72311 2
Gas fitters 72302 2
Industrial electricians 72201 2
Sheet metal workers 72102 2
Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors 72100 2
Home building and renovation managers 70011 0
Construction managers 70010 0
Cooks 63200 3
Construction estimators 22303 2

4 Occupations removed:

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Residential and commercial installers and servicers 73200 3
Elevator constructors and mechanics 72406 2
Machine fitters 72405 2
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers, and servicers 72014 2

4. Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations

A small expansion, featuring the addition of two new roles and removal of none.

2 Occupations added:

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticulture services 82031 2
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors 82030 2

5. Education Occupations (New Category)

The standout update for 2025 is the introduction of the Education category, which focuses on professionals who are shaping the future. This new category opens up opportunities for educators and other education-related professionals to apply for immigration, recognizing their crucial role in Canada’s growth.

This update is beneficial as it highlights the importance of education in Canada’s development, providing a clear path for skilled educators to contribute to the country’s workforce. By prioritizing this sector, Canada ensures that the next generation has access to high-quality education and support.

5 Occupations Added 

Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants 43100 3
Instructors of persons with disabilities 42203 2
Early childhood educators and assistants 42202 2
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers 41221 1
Secondary school teachers 41220 1

 

Express Entry categories are determined based on Canada’s labor market needs and immigration priorities. The government evaluates various factors such as the demand for specific occupations, the country’s economic growth, and demographic trends. Categories are updated periodically to align with these needs, ensuring that skilled professionals fill critical roles in Canada’s workforce.

This system helps ensure that the right individuals are selected to contribute to the Canadian economy, while also supporting the country’s social and economic development. Regular adjustments to these categories allow for flexibility in responding to emerging trends and challenges.

Do you require assistance with crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com.

 

 

February 27, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada has updated more information on the eligibility criteria for its new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots, set to launch on March 31, 2025. These pilots aim to provide a streamlined pathway to permanent residence (PR) for qualified home care workers.

The immigration department has stated that when the Home Care Worker Pilot (HCWP) opens, it will initially only accept applications from candidates already in Canada. Those outside of Canada will be able to apply at a later time.

What are the HCWP streams?

Foreign nationals can apply for the new HCWP through two streams:

  1. Workers in Canada stream
  2. Applicants not working in Canada stream

When the program opens in late March, only the Workers in Canada stream will accept applications. The Applicants not working in Canada stream will open later in the year.

IRCC recommends applicants for the Workers in Canada stream take an approved language test and get their education assessed through an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) ahead of the March opening.

Details on the application process for the Applicants not working in Canada stream are not yet available.

See below eligibility criteria for the HCWP:

  • Language Proficiency: Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 4.

  • Educational Requirements: Hold the equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma, as verified by an Education Credential Assessment (ECA).

  • Work Experience: Demonstrate recent and relevant work experience in the home care sector.

  • Job Offer: Secure a full-time job offer from in the home care sector within Canada but outside Quebec.

You are now able to work wherever there is a need, meaning your job offer can come from any of the following:

– Private Households

– Organizations that directly hire full-time workers to provide short-term occasional home care for those who are semi-independent of recovering from an injury or illness, for example:

– home health care service providers

– home care support service providers

– direct care agencies

– personal care services in residential settings

– pediatric home health care service providers

Eligibility criteria Details
Work experience – Six months of recent, relevant work;

OR

– A credential of at least six months of related home care training.

Language proficiency CLB 4 or higher in English or French.
Job offer Must have a job offer from either

– A private household;

OR

– An organization* that directly hires full-time home care workers to provide short-term or occasional home care.

Education Secondary school diploma.

 

Eligibility Update for Out-of-Status Workers and Previous Applicants

The eligibility criteria for the Home Care Worker Pilot (HCWP) in Canada have been updated to include out-of-status home care workers currently in the country. These individuals may now qualify to apply under the HCWP due to a public policy, though only a limited number of spots are available.

Additionally, former applicants to the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots, which were closed in June 2024, may still be eligible to apply. Those who applied under the “Gaining Experience” category before June 2024 and have since accumulated sufficient eligible work experience can submit proof to IRCC to have their permanent residence (PR) application considered.

Do you need more information and guide on this program, get all you need to know on this webinar. Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 24, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 20, 2025, Prince Edward Island (PEI) held its second Expression of Interest (EOI) draw of the year, inviting 87 candidates to apply for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This draw focused on individuals working in key occupations and sectors important for PEI’s economy.

Key Details of the February 20, 2025, Draw

  • Invitations Issued: 87
  • Focus Areas: The draw targeted candidates working in sectors critical to PEI’s growth.

Upcoming Draw Dates

PEI has scheduled several upcoming EOI draws throughout 2025. These dates include:

  • March 20, 2025
  • April 17, 2025
  • May 15, 2025
  • June 19, 2025
  • July 17, 2025
  • August 21, 2025
  • September 18, 2025
  • October 16, 2025
  • November 20, 2025
  • December 18, 2025

These dates give applicants many chances to submit their EOI profiles.

How the Application Process Works

To apply, candidates must submit an EOI through the PEI Office of Immigration’s online portal. This allows the province to assess eligibility and determine who should be invited to apply for a nomination.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following general criteria:

  • Intention to Reside in PEI: Applicants must plan to live and work in PEI.
  • Economic Ability: Applicants should have enough financial resources to support themselves and their families.
  • Work Experience and Education: Applicants must have qualifications that align with the province’s labor market needs.
  • Language Proficiency: Applicants must show adequate skills in English or French.

Conclusion The PEI PNP plays an important role in attracting skilled workers to the province, helping it grow and thrive economically. Interested candidates should make sure to meet the eligibility criteria and stay updated.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 24, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 20, 2025, Manitoba held its latest Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) draw and issued 41 invitations to apply for provincial nominations. These invitations were sent to candidates under two main streams:

1. International Education Stream (IES):

  • 19 invitations were given to candidates who are international graduates from Manitoba’s educational institutions. To be eligible, applicants needed to:
  • Have a master’s degree or higher; and
  • Have a Manitoba supporter who:
    • Is a close relative,
    • Is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and
    • Has lived in Manitoba for at least one year.

2. Skilled Worker Overseas Stream (SWOS):

  • 22 invitations were given to candidates outside of Canada who were invited directly by Manitoba’s PNP, often through recruitment initiatives. The minimum score required for this stream was 711.

Additionally, 7 of the 41 invitations were extended to candidates who had an active Express Entry profile, signaling a faster immigration process under the federal Express Entry system.

The Manitoba PNP is a great opportunity for skilled workers, international students, and others who are eligible to live and work in the province. If you’re interested in applying, it’s important to meet the eligibility criteria for each stream and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to be considered in future draws.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

February 20, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first category-based Express Entry draw of the year, inviting 6,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence. This special draw focused on French speakers, highlighting Canada’s ongoing effort to attract bilingual talent and strengthen its multicultural and bilingual identity.

Details of the Draw:

  • Number of Invitations: 6,500
  • Category: French Language Proficiency
  • Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 428
  • Draw Date: February 19, 2025
  • Tie Breaking Rule: February 10, 2025

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

If you received an invitation in this draw, you are now one step closer to getting permanent residency in Canada! You have 60 days to submit your application, making sure you include all the right documents and information.

Why French?

This draw was special because it focused on candidates who speak French. Canada values people who are bilingual (speak both French and English), especially in areas like Quebec, where French is the main language. By encouraging people who speak French to apply, Canada hopes to strengthen its bilingual communities and workforce.

What’s Next?

This draw was just the beginning! IRCC will continue to hold similar draws in the future, sometimes focusing on other skills or professions that are in demand. If you want to increase your chances of being invited in future draws, make sure your profile is up-to-date and be ready for the next opportunity! Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 18, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its latest Express Entry draw, focusing on candidates from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A total of 646 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750.

Key Details of the February 17, 2025, PNP Draw:

  • Number of ITAs Issued: 646
  • Minimum CRS Score: 750
  • Program Specified: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Tie-breaking Rule: July 23, 2024

This draw marks the 336th round of invitations under the Express Entry system.

Recent Trends in Express Entry Draws:

The February 17 draw continues the trend observed in earlier 2025 draws, with a focus on candidates from the PNP. For instance, the previous draw on February 4, 2025, also targeted PNP candidates, issuing 455 ITAs to those with a minimum CRS score of 802.

In contrast, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws have seen a decrease in the minimum CRS scores. The February 5, 2025, CEC draw issued 4,000 ITAs to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 521.

Implications for Prospective Applicants:

The higher CRS score requirements in PNP draws suggest that candidates with provincial nominations are highly competitive in the Express Entry pool. Prospective applicants aiming to boost their chances of being invited should consider getting a provincial nomination, as it significantly increases their CRS score.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 17, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Between February 3 and 6, 2025, Alberta conducted three draws under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), issuing a total of 308 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. These draws targeted specific streams to address the province’s labor market needs.

February 3, 2025: Rural Renewal Stream

On February 3, 2025, Alberta issued 190 ITAs under the Rural Renewal Stream, with a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 68. This stream aims to attract skilled workers to rural communities, supporting regional development and addressing labor shortages in these areas.

February 5, 2025: Dedicated Health Care Pathway – Express Entry

The February 5 draw focused on the Dedicated Health Care Pathway for Express Entry candidates, inviting 70 individuals with a minimum score of 52. This pathway is designed to expedite the integration of skilled healthcare professionals into Alberta’s healthcare system, addressing critical workforce needs.

February 6, 2025: Dedicated Health Care Pathway – Non-Express Entry

On February 6, Alberta targeted the Dedicated Health Care Pathway for non-Express Entry candidates, issuing 48 ITAs with a minimum score of 50. This initiative underscores Alberta’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system by attracting qualified professionals through both Express Entry and non-Express Entry pathways.

See below details of all three draws:

Date Stream Cut-off score Number of invitations
February 3, 2025 Rural Renewal stream 68 190
February 5, 2025 Dedicated Health Care Pathway (Express Entry) 52 70
February 6, 2025 Dedicated Health Care Pathway (non-Express Entry) 50 48

These draws reflect Alberta’s strategic approach to immigration, focusing on sectors and regions that are vital to the province’s economic growth and social well-being. By targeting specific streams, Alberta aims to attract professionals who can contribute to its diverse communities and dynamic economy.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 10, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 6, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) conducted its latest draw, issuing a total of 76 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to candidates across two streams:

International Education Stream

  • Number of LAAs Issued: 59
  • Eligibility Criteria: Candidates were required to meet the International Education Stream’s eligibility requirements and possess at least four years of full-time work experience within the past five years.

Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

  • Number of LAAs Issued: 17
  • Minimum Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS): 612
  • Selection Criteria: Candidates were directly invited by the MPNP under a strategic recruitment initiative.

Notably, of the 76 LAAs issued in this draw, 18 were extended to candidates who declared a valid Express Entry profile number and job seeker validation code.

Next Steps for Invited Candidates

Invited candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application for Canadian Permanent Residency, including all necessary documentation. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the application becoming invalid.

Understanding the MPNP

The MPNP is designed to attract skilled workers and international graduates to Manitoba, addressing the province’s labor market and economic needs. The program offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residence, supporting Manitoba’s economic and workforce requirements.

Expression of Interest (EOI) System

To begin the immigration process through the MPNP, candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). This online profile involves answering questions to determine eligibility, resulting in an EOI ranking score. Selected candidates receive a provincial nomination, significantly expediting the process of obtaining Canadian Permanent Residency.

EOI Ranking Factors

The EOI ranking system evaluates candidates based on six factors:

  • Age: Maximum 75 points
  • Language Proficiency: Maximum 125 points
  • Education: Maximum 125 points
  • Work Experience: Maximum 175 points
  • Adaptability: Maximum 500 points
  • Risk Assessment: Maximum 200 points

On average, 80% of applications under the MPNP are processed within 8-10 months.

This draw underscores Manitoba’s commitment to attracting skilled individuals and international graduates to contribute to the province’s economic growth and labor market needs.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

February 6, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 5, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw, inviting 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency in a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw.

  • Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class
  • Date: February 5, 2025
  • Total ITAs Issued: 4,000
  • Minimum CRS Score: 521
  • Tie-breaking Rule: November 14, 2024

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

To enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in future draws, consider the following strategies:

  1. Improve Language Proficiency: Achieving higher scores in language tests like IELTS or CELPIP can significantly boost your CRS score.
  2. Gain Additional Work Experience: Accumulating more skilled work experience, especially within Canada, can add valuable points to your profile.
  3. Pursue Further Education: Obtaining higher educational qualifications or securing an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for existing credentials can enhance your CRS score.
  4. Secure a Provincial Nomination: Being nominated by a Canadian province or territory can provide an additional 600 CRS points, substantially increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.

See below latest CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as at February 5, 2025

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 173
501-600 23,165
451-500 68,910
491-500 13,487
481-490 13,003
471-480 15,652
461-470 13,815
451-460 12,953
401-450 63,508
441-450 12,567
431-440 13,621
421-430 12,432
411-420 12,833
401-410 12,055
351-400 51,079
301-350 21,576
0-300 5,641
Total 234,052

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 5, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On February 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw, inviting 455 candidates to apply for permanent residency.

  • Draw Type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Date: February 4, 2025
  • Total ITAs Issued: 455
  • Minimum CRS Score: 802
  • Tie-breaking Rule: December 7, 2024

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry

  1. Checking Eligibility – You should first determine whether you meet the requirements for one of the three Express Entry programs.
  2. Preparing Documents – Essential paperwork, such as language test results and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), must be gathered.
  3. Submitting Profile – An Express Entry profile needs to be created, after which a CRS score will be assigned.
  4. Entering the Pool – Candidates will remain in the pool while waiting for a draw where their CRS score reaches the required cut-off.
  5. Receiving an ITA – If selected, a complete application for permanent residence must be submitted.
  6. Providing Biometrics – If requested, biometric information will need to be provided.
  7. Awaiting the Final Decision – IRCC will assess the application, and those who are approved will be granted a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

  • The Federal Skilled Worker Program
  • The Federal Skilled Trades Program
  • The Canadian Experience Class.

Regular draws are held to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency, with specific draws targeting PNP nominees, CEC candidates, and individuals with proficiency in the French language.

Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency. Those not selected in this draw are encouraged to improve their CRS scores through enhanced language proficiency, additional educational credentials, or obtaining a provincial nomination to increase their chances in future draws.

As Canada continues to prioritize the attraction of skilled immigrants to support its economic growth and address labor market needs, the Express Entry system remains a vital pathway for individuals seeking to establish themselves in the country.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com