Ottawa, 27/02/2025 — Canada.
On February 27, 2025, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller announced the Express Entry priority categories for 2025. The Education category was added to the priority list, while the Transport category was removed from category-based draws.
Four Priority Categories for 2025
According to the IRCC announcement, the categories that will be the focus of Express Entry draws in 2025 are: strong French-language skills; experience in Healthcare and Social Services (family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, chiropractors); the Trades category (carpenters, plumbers, contractors); and the Education category (teachers, early childhood educators, instructors for people with disabilities).
At the same time, the main priority for 2025 Federal Economic Class draws will be inviting candidates with Canadian work experience, through the Canadian Experience Class.
Transport Category Removed
The Transport category, which had been added to the priority list in 2024, was removed from category-based draws in 2025. IRCC did not give a specific reason, but the department’s announcement stated that the adjustments reflect shifting industry needs.
In addition, the list of occupations under the Healthcare and Social Services category was refined: some occupations were added while others deemed less relevant were removed.
Immigration Plan Context
The update to priority categories is tied to Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan. Under this plan, the 2025 permanent resident admission target is split into two main groups: federal economic priorities and an In-Canada focus (prioritizing people already in Canada).
IRCC updates the list of Express Entry priority categories each year. Interested applicants should follow the canada.ca website for specific draw details and the criteria applicable at the time of filing.
References
This article is compiled from government sources. Immigration regulations and figures may change over time; you should check current information on the official website before making a decision.
