In 2025, Canada’s Express Entry program will offer 124,590 spots, a 12.5% increase from 2024. This expansion aims to fill 1.2 million job vacancies by 2030, focusing on healthcare, skilled trades, and technology. With faster processing times (targeting 6 months) and a stronger francophone focus, Express Entry is more accessible than ever for skilled workers.
These changes reflect Canada’s 2025 immigration strategy to address labor shortages and support economic growth. Whether you’re in healthcare, trades, or a French-speaking candidate, understanding these updates is key to maximizing your chances. Below, we break down the key shifts and what they mean for your immigration journey.
Canada has allocated 124,590 spots to Express Entry for 2025, up by 12.5% compared to 2024. This increase is designed to address the country’s 1.2 million job vacancies projected by 2030, particularly in key sectors like healthcare and skilled trades. Processing times will also improve, with a target of 6 months for most applications.
Key Figures:
In 2025, Express Entry undergoes significant changes to address Canada’s labor market needs and streamline immigration processes. The table below highlights key statistics comparing 2024 and 2025, showcasing the program’s evolution.
| Indicator | 2024 | 2025 | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Entry Admissions | 110,770 | 124,590 | +12.5% to address critical labor gaps. |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 110,000 | 55,000 | -50% to prioritize federal pathways. |
| Francophone Immigration Target | 6.7% | 8.5% | +27% to strengthen francophone communities. |
| Job Vacancies to Fill | – | 1.2 million | Driven by retirements and aging population. |
| ITAs for Priority Sectors | 55% | 65% | Focused on healthcare, trades, and technology. |
| Processing Time Goal | 8 months | 6 months | -25% to streamline applications. |
Express Entry will prioritize three critical sectors to address Canada’s most pressing labor shortages in 2025: healthcare, skilled trades, and francophone immigration. These sectors, representing 65% of all ITAs, are essential to sustaining the economy and supporting communities.
Canada is targeting three key sectors in 2025:
For example, a qualified welder with a CRS score of 450 could receive an ITA, compared to 500+ for other professions.
Admissions under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) will drop to 55,000 in 2025, reflecting a shift toward federal programs. However, targeted provincial pathways, like Alberta’s Tech Pathway, remain viable options for IT professionals.
| Criterion | Express Entry | PNP |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 6 months | 12–18 months |
| Language Requirement | CLB 7+ | CLB 4+ (varies) |
| Sector Flexibility | Limited | High (regional focus) |
Starting on March 1st, 2025, Express Entry will no longer award CRS points for valid job offers, marking a significant shift in how candidates are evaluated. This change aims to reduce fraud and prioritize skills-based immigration.
How to adapt the CRS point changes:
Canada is strengthening its commitment to francophone immigration, aiming for 8.5% of Express Entry admissions to be French-speaking by December 2025. This target reflects the government’s efforts to support minority francophone communities outside Quebec.
French-speaking candidates (CLB 5+) will benefit from:
For example, a French-speaking teacher with 3 years of experience and CLB 5 in French could receive an ITA with a CRS score of 420, compared to 470 for a similar non-francophone profile.
Canada’s immigration strategy for 2025–2027 emphasizes long-term growth, diversity, and addressing critical labor shortages. By focusing on skilled workers, francophone applicants, and key industries, the plan aims to strengthen the economy while preparing for demographic shifts, such as an aging workforce.
The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan confirms:
This progression aims to address demographic challenges, with 25% of the population aged 65+ by 2030
Express Entry in 2025 opens doors for skilled immigrants to contribute to Canada’s economy while addressing labor shortages. To maximize your chances, align your profile with priority sectors and focus on language proficiency and skill development to boost your CRS score.
If you’re preparing your Express Entry profile, join our Live Workshop: How to Prepare for Express Entry 2025. Learn to avoid common mistakes, optimize your CRS score, and navigate targeted draws. Get answers to your questions in real time and access free resources like checklists and sector-specific tips.