Canada’s Express Entry system remains a leading pathway for skilled workers to immigrate in 2025.
With growing demand across healthcare, education, technology, and trades, the system prioritises skilled professionals needed to drive Canada’s economy forward.
Aligning your career with these high-demand occupations can significantly improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of Express Entry jobs in 2025
- Top 12 jobs for Express Entry with NOC codes, salaries, and job descriptions
- Why these jobs are in demand in Canada
- How in-demand jobs improve your changes
- 5-question FAQ on Express Entry jobs and eligibility
Overview of Express Entry Jobs in 2025
Canada’s immigration priorities for 2025 reflect persistent labour shortages, particularly in healthcare, education, technology, and skilled trades. Occupation-specific Express Entry draws target professionals with the skills Canada urgently needs, giving them a distinct advantage in securing permanent residence.
Here are 12 of the most in-demand jobs for Express Entry immigration this year, including their NOC 2021 codes, median salaries, and why they are critical to Canada’s future.
1. Registered Nurse (NOC 31301)
Median Annual Salary: $78,000
Responsibilities: Deliver direct patient care, administer treatments, and support recovery plans.
Why It’s In Demand: Ageing populations and hospital expansions are creating ongoing demand for nurses across the country. Read more
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (NOC 32101)
Median Annual Salary: $60,000
Responsibilities: Provide routine care, assist with procedures, and monitor patient conditions under a registered nurse’s supervision.
Why It’s In Demand: Shortages in frontline healthcare providers have driven demand in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Read more
3. Specialist Physician (NOC 31100)
Median Annual Salary: $250,000+
Responsibilities: Diagnose and treat complex health conditions in specialised fields such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
Why It’s In Demand: Canada faces a specialist shortage, particularly in rural areas. Read more
4. Early Childhood Educator (NOC 42202)
Median Annual Salary: $50,000
Responsibilities: Create and implement learning programs to support young children’s emotional and cognitive development.
Why It’s In Demand: The federal government’s investment in childcare spaces has increased the need for qualified educators.
5. Elementary School Teacher (NOC 41221)
Median Annual Salary: $75,000
Responsibilities: Teach core subjects, foster critical thinking, and promote social development in young students.
Why It’s In Demand: Population growth and teacher retirements have resulted in shortages, especially in French-speaking and remote communities.
6. College and Vocational Instructor (NOC 41210)
Median Annual Salary: $80,000
Responsibilities: Deliver specialised training and instruction in colleges, technical institutes, and vocational schools.
Why It’s In Demand: Skills-based education is essential to meet labour market needs in trades and emerging industries.
7. Software Developer/Engineer (NOC 21232)
Median Annual Salary: $95,000
Responsibilities: Design, develop, and test software applications across sectors including fintech, healthcare, and e-commerce.
Why It’s In Demand: Canada’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, with strong job markets in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Read more
8. Data Analyst (NOC 21223)
Median Annual Salary: $80,000
Responsibilities: Gather, clean, and interpret data to help organisations make strategic decisions.
Why It’s In Demand: Demand for data-driven insights continues to rise across all sectors.
9. Financial Analyst (NOC 11101)
Median Annual Salary: $82,000
Responsibilities: Evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial performance, and guide decision-making.
Why It’s In Demand: As markets evolve, businesses need skilled analysts to navigate financial uncertainty.
10. Electrician (NOC 72410)
Median Annual Salary: $65,000
Responsibilities: Install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in various settings.
Why It’s In Demand: Infrastructure development and the shift to green energy drive demand for skilled trades.
11. Welder (NOC 72106)
Median Annual Salary: $60,000
Responsibilities: Weld and fabricate metal components for construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.
Why It’s In Demand: A skilled welder shortage persists in construction and industrial sectors.
12. Human Resources Manager (NOC 10011)
Median Annual Salary: $105,000
Responsibilities: Manage recruitment, employee relations, and workforce development strategies.
Why It’s In Demand: Companies require experienced HR professionals to navigate competitive labour markets.
Why These Jobs Are Prioritised in Express Entry
Canada’s Express Entry system uses the National Occupation Classification (NOC) to identify in-demand jobs eligible for category-based draws. Applicants working in these fields can earn higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores thanks to job-specific advantages like Canadian work experience, language proficiency, and education alignment.
By aligning your expertise with these occupations, you can enhance your Express Entry profile and improve your chances of securing permanent residence.
FAQs About Express Entry Jobs in 2025
What are the most in-demand jobs for Express Entry in 2025?
Top roles include registered nurses, early childhood educators, software developers, electricians, and specialist physicians. These roles align with Canada’s immigration priorities.
How can I find out if my job is eligible for Express Entry?
Check your occupation’s NOC 2021 code against the latest list of targeted Express Entry occupations. This ensures your eligibility under the category-based draws.
Do healthcare and education jobs increase my CRS score?
Yes, healthcare and education jobs targeted in Express Entry draws may boost your CRS score, especially when paired with Canadian work experience.
Where are these jobs in demand across Canada?
Healthcare jobs are needed nationwide, including rural areas. Education, trades, and tech jobs are especially in demand in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
How do I apply for Express Entry in Canada?
Create an online profile with the Express Entry system, including your NOC code, education, and work experience. If eligible, you’ll enter the pool for a potential ITA.
