Canada’s Express Entry system continues to evolve, and 2025 has brought forward some notable developments that affect who gets selected and how applications are prioritized. These updates reflect current economic conditions, workforce shortages, and demographic patterns.
Overview of Express Entry Changes
Express Entry is still the main system used by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for skilled immigrants. It covers the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. While the structure remains intact, some key rules have changed — and they matter.
The most talked-about update? Category-based selection. It’s not a new idea, but this year’s use of it is more structured. In 2025, six occupation- or skill-specific groups will be given priority in the selection process. These are:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare occupations
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
- Trades (like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work)
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Education (teachers, early childhood educators, etc.)
Why these groups? They represent areas where labor shortages are growing or persistent. By emphasizing specific job experience or language skills, IRCC aims to better match new arrivals with the country’s existing needs.
Another notable development: Canadian work experience is now more significant than before. Candidates who’ve already lived and worked in Canada, particularly through temporary programs like Post-Graduation Work Permits or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, are seeing more invitations to apply. These individuals are typically already integrated into the workforce and are considered lower-risk applicants from a settlement standpoint.
Additionally, as of March 2025, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) no longer assigns points for arranged employment (i.e., job offers). The reason? The government found too many inconsistencies and abuses tied to employment letters — some were valid, but many were questionable. By removing these points, IRCC is trying to level the playing field and avoid exploitation of the system.
The number of candidates being selected through general draws has also dropped slightly. More invitations are going toward those with skills in the priority categories mentioned above or those already in Canada with valid temporary status.
Recent Changes to Express Entry You Must Consider
The Express Entry system isn’t just changing in isolation — it’s part of a broader shift in how immigration targets are set. According to Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2025–2027:
- 395,000 new permanent residents are expected in 2025
- 380,000 in 2026
- 365,000 in 2027
This marks a cooling-off compared to the earlier target of 500,000. Why the dip? Federal officials have said it’s intended to ease pressure on housing and social systems, giving time for local infrastructure to keep up.
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Another thing to note: nearly half of the immigrants projected for 2025 are already in the country. Many entered as international students or temporary workers. Now, they’re being transitioned to permanent status — a shift that reflects how immigration has become more about retention than simply new admissions.
FAQ
What immigrants are coming to Canada?
Mainly skilled workers in healthcare, trades, STEM, and education, plus international graduates and temporary workers already living in Canada.
How many immigrants will come to Canada in 2025?
Canada plans to admit 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, with many transitioning from temporary resident status.
What is the new immigration law for Canada in 2025?
There is no new law, but key updates include category-based draws, the removal of job offer points, and more emphasis on Canadian work experience.
