Government prioritizing in-demand professions, Francophone immigration
The Canadian government has announced updates to its Express Entry system for 2025, introducing a new category focused on education while continuing to prioritize in-demand sectors such as healthcare, trades, and social services.
The changes aim to address long-term labour shortages and support economic growth.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, outlined the adjustments, emphasizing a shift toward inviting more candidates with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence.
“Canada’s Express Entry system is evolving to meet the country’s changing needs. By addressing labour shortages, strengthening our economy and increasing Francophone immigration, we are building a more dynamic workforce with workers and professionals from in-demand fields,” he said.
“Our approach ensures immigration remains a key driver of Canada’s growth, helping businesses thrive while supporting communities across the country.”
In addition to prioritizing candidates with work experience in Canada, the 2025 Express Entry system will focus on category-based invitations in key areas, including:
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for those seeking to immigrate permanently through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
As part of a broader strategy to manage sustainable population growth and economic prosperity, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is concentrating on industries facing acute labour shortages. The federal government’s commitment to increasing Francophone immigration remains a key priority, it said, with a continued focus on selecting candidates proficient in French.
Recent policy changes, including amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in 2022, have enabled Canada to refine its selection criteria to support economic priorities, says Ottawa. Between 2018 and 2024, nearly half of French-speaking immigrants admitted outside Quebec came through the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class.
With immigration accounting for almost 100% of Canada’s labour force growth, the government said these changes underscore its ongoing efforts to attract and retain skilled professionals, ensuring Canada’s workforce aligns with the evolving demands of the economy.
