As 2025 begins, Canada’s Express Entry system remains a cornerstone of the country’s immigration strategy. Major changes and new policies are expected to reshape the system, focusing on reducing fraud, refining occupation-specific draws, and aligning with Canada’s updated Immigration Levels Plan.
This article explores these anticipated developments, providing a clear picture of what aspiring immigrants can expect in the coming year.
On This Page You Will Find
- Eliminating Job Offer Points: Insights into the removal of job offer points and its impact on fraud prevention and candidate selection.
- Expansion of Occupation-Specific Draws: How changes in Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility hint at future Express Entry criteria.
- 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan: Key takeaways from Canada’s updated targets and priorities, including the focus on French-speaking immigrants.
- Predictions for 2025: Anticipated trends and impacts on key candidate groups, such as CEC and PNP applicants.
- Tips for Applicants: Practical advice for enhancing your CRS score and adapting to these changes.
Eliminating Job Offer Points to Combat Fraud
In a significant step to prevent fraud, candidates in the Express Entry system will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer. Previously, the Labour Market Impact Assessment-backed job offer was worth 50 or 200 points, depending on the NOC TEER category. This change, announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, takes effect in spring 2025.
The primary goal of this measure is to curb the illegal buying and selling of LMIAs, which have previously been exploited to inflate candidates’ chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Key implications of this policy change include:
- Equal Opportunity: Candidates without job offers will now compete on a more level playing field, with emphasis placed on other qualifications such as skills, education, and language proficiency.
- Broader Impact: The policy will apply to all candidates in the pool as of spring 2025, as well as new applicants, excluding those who have already received an ITA.
- Focus on Integrity: By removing the incentive for fraudulent practices, Canada aims to uphold the credibility of the Express Entry system.
Expansion of Occupation-Specific Draws
While no official announcement has been made, indications suggest that Canada may broaden the range of occupations eligible for targeted Express Entry draws. Recent changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which added education-related fields to the list of eligible categories, hint at potential shifts in Express Entry criteria.
Newly PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study
In December 2024, the education category was added to the PGWP program, alongside existing categories like STEM, healthcare, and trades. Some of the newly included fields of study under this category are:
- Early childhood education and teaching (CIP 13.1210)
- Montessori teacher education (CIP 13.1207)
- Child care provider/assistant (CIP 19.0709)
If these fields align with Express Entry’s occupation-specific draws, candidates in the education sector may find new opportunities to immigrate to Canada.
Insights from the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan
Canada’s recently unveiled Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027 provides critical insights into the future of the Express Entry system. The plan highlights shifts in targets and priorities, offering a glimpse into the trends we can expect in 2025.
Excerpt From Immigration Levels Plan
| 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | |
| Total | 395,000 | 380,000 | 365,000 |
| French-speaking target | 8.5% (29,325) | 9.5% (31,350) | 10% (31,500) |
| Federal Economic Priorities | 41,700 | 47,400 | 47,800 |
| In-Canada Focus | 82,980 | 75,830 | 70,930 |
Reduced Overall Immigration Targets
The total immigration target will decrease incrementally from 395,000 in 2025 to 365,000 in 2027. However, federal economic priorities, which include Express Entry candidates, will see a slight increase in focus.
Emphasis on French-Speaking Immigrants
For the first time, Canada has set explicit targets for French-speaking immigrants, with an 8.5% target for 2025, rising to 10% by 2027. This could translate into an increased number of Express Entry draws aimed at French-speaking candidates outside Quebec.
Split in the Federal High Skilled Class
The Federal High Skilled Class, traditionally encompassing programs like the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC), is now divided into two categories:
- Federal Economic Priorities
- In-Canada Focus
This division signals a shift in priorities, with the majority of invitations likely going to CEC and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates under the in-Canada focus.
Predictions for Express Entry in 2025
Based on these changes, here’s what prospective immigrants can anticipate:
1. Increased Competition for CEC and PNP Candidates
Candidates already living and working in Canada through the CEC or PNP will likely dominate the ITAs. These programs fall under the in-Canada focus, which has a target more than twice the size of the Federal Economic Priorities category.
2. More Opportunities for French-Speaking Candidates
As part of the new targets, French-speaking candidates with strong language skills and work experience are likely to benefit from dedicated draws.
3. Focus on High-Demand Occupations
Occupation-specific draws may expand to include new sectors, such as education, reflecting Canada’s evolving labor market needs. This aligns with the broader goal of attracting skilled immigrants who can address critical labor shortages.
4. Enhanced Integrity Measures
The elimination of job offer points and ongoing scrutiny of fraudulent practices will make the Express Entry system more transparent and reliable. Candidates must ensure their profiles are accurate and truthful to avoid disqualification.
5. Streamlined Processes for Specific Categories
As Express Entry evolves, targeted improvements to application processing times and candidate selection criteria can be expected, particularly for prioritized groups like healthcare workers and French speakers.
Advice for Prospective Immigrants
Navigating these changes requires careful preparation. Here are actionable tips for those planning to apply through Express Entry in 2025:
- Strengthen Language Skills
Invest in language training to improve your English and French proficiency, as this remains a critical factor in scoring high on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). - Target In-Demand Occupations
Stay informed about updates to occupation-specific draws and focus on gaining experience in fields that align with Canada’s labor market needs. - Optimize Your CRS Score
Without job offer points, other factors like education, age, and work experience will play a larger role. Consider pursuing further education or certifications to enhance your profile. - Monitor Policy Updates
Keep track of announcements from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to stay informed about changes that may impact your eligibility or application process. - Seek Expert Guidance
Given the complexity of these changes, consulting with a licensed immigration consultant can help you navigate the system and maximize your chances of success.
Aligning With Priorities
Canada’s Express Entry system in 2025 is set to undergo transformative changes aimed at enhancing its integrity, fairness, and alignment with national priorities. By eliminating job offer points, expanding occupation-specific draws, and introducing French-speaking targets, the system will prioritize transparency and targeted economic growth.
Aspiring immigrants must stay proactive, adapt to these shifts, and focus on strengthening their profiles to meet Canada’s evolving criteria. With preparation and perseverance, candidates can navigate these changes and seize the opportunity to build a new life in Canada.
FAQ: Canada Express Entry in 2025
What is the significance of removing job offer points in Express Entry?
The removal of job offer points, effective spring 2025, is a measure to prevent fraud by eliminating incentives for illegally purchasing or selling Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs). This ensures a level playing field for candidates, emphasizing skills, education, and language proficiency over job offers. While candidates with job offers no longer receive extra points, the system focuses on transparency and fairness, benefiting those who genuinely meet Canada’s immigration needs.
How will occupation-specific draws change in 2025?
While no official announcement has been made, changes to PGWP eligibility suggest an expansion of occupation-specific draws. Fields such as education and childcare, recently added to PGWP eligibility, may also become priorities in Express Entry. This aligns with Canada’s labor market needs, offering targeted opportunities for skilled workers in high-demand sectors like healthcare, STEM, and trades. Prospective candidates should monitor updates closely to align their profiles with these emerging opportunities.
How does the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan impact Express Entry?
The plan sets a 2025 target of 395,000 immigrants, with a focus on French-speaking candidates and those under the in-Canada focus category. The Federal High Skilled Class is now split into Federal Economic Priorities and In-Canada Focus, prioritizing Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. This division reflects Canada’s goal of addressing labor market needs while supporting existing residents working toward permanent residency.
What opportunities exist for French-speaking immigrants in 2025?
French-speaking immigrants are a priority under the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, with a target of 8.5% of admissions in 2025. This represents a commitment to strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec. Candidates proficient in French are likely to see an increase in targeted draws. Improving French language skills can significantly enhance CRS scores and boost eligibility in these specialized programs.
What advice would you give to Express Entry candidates in 2025?
Candidates should focus on improving language proficiency, particularly in French and English, as these remain critical CRS factors. Target in-demand occupations by gaining experience in fields like healthcare, STEM, and trades. Stay informed about updates to occupation-specific draws and policy changes, and consider seeking expert guidance from licensed immigration consultants to navigate the evolving system. Adapting to these shifts will improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
