The 2025 Express Entry system prioritizes French-language skills and in-demand sectors. Get official links, eligibility and step-by-step guidance for a strong profile.
Canada • Skilled Immigration • Priority Occupations • Permanent Residence Pathway
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration system for skilled workers. In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will conduct invitation rounds targeting candidates with French-language proficiency and work experience in sectors like healthcare, trades and education. This guide explains the categories, eligibility criteria and how to create a high-ranking profile.
2025 Express Entry Categories
On 27 February 2025, IRCC announced that Express Entry invitation rounds will continue to prioritize certain categories. Candidates must still meet core Express Entry criteria but these categories receive targeted draws:
- French-language proficiency: Candidates who demonstrate strong French language skills receive invitations in category-based rounds.
- Healthcare and social services: Occupations such as nurses, physicians and social workers are prioritized.
- Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM): Engineers, scientists and IT professionals are targeted in specific draws.
- Skilled trades: Tradespeople in construction, transportation and manufacturing receive category-based invitations.
- Agriculture and agri-food: Workers in agriculture, food production and related sectors are recognized.
- Education occupations: Teachers and education administrators may be invited through category-based rounds.
These categories support Canada’s workforce needs and help provincial and federal governments address labour shortages.
Eligibility Requirements
To enter the Express Entry pool, you must be eligible for one of the federal economic programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program or Canadian Experience Class. General requirements include:
- Work experience: At least one year of skilled work experience (TEER 0–3) within the last ten years. For Canadian Experience Class you need one year of skilled work in Canada.
- Language proficiency: Take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP or TEF Canada). French-language candidates can gain additional CRS points.
- Education: A Canadian credential or Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees.
- Proof of funds: Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds unless authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer.
- Admissibility: You must not be inadmissible to Canada for reasons such as criminality or medical issues.
Meeting program-specific requirements is essential to be eligible for the pool. Provincial nomination or job offer can enhance your ranking.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The CRS ranks candidates in the pool based on factors such as age, education, language skills, work experience and adaptability. The maximum score is 1,200 points, allocated as follows:
| Factor | Maximum points |
|---|---|
| Core / human capital (age, education, language, work experience) | 600 |
| Spouse or partner factors | 40 |
| Skill transferability (education + language/work) | 100 |
| Additional (Provincial nomination, job offer, Canadian education, French skills) | 600 |
IRCC regularly updates CRS cut-off scores. Candidates with French-language skills and in-demand occupations may receive category-based invitations even with lower CRS scores.
How to Apply
- Check your eligibility: Use the official eligibility tool and read the program requirements. Ensure you meet the work experience, language and education criteria.
- Gather documents: Collect passports, language test results, educational credentials (ECA), work experience letters and proof of funds.
- Create a profile: Register on IRCC’s online portal. Provide accurate information about your skills, education and work history. You will receive a CRS score.
- Improve your CRS score: Increase your language scores, obtain additional education or secure a job offer/provincial nomination to raise points.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you meet the CRS cut-off or are selected through a category-based round, you will receive an ITA to apply for permanent residence.
- Submit your application: You have 60 days to submit a complete application with forms, fees and supporting documents. IRCC aims to process most applications within 6 months.
Timelines
| Stage | Timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Profile creation | Anytime | Create your profile when ready. Valid for 12 months. |
| Invitation rounds | Irregular (throughout 2025) | IRCC holds category-based and general draws. Monitor the CRS score threshold. |
| ITA submission | 60 days | Once invited, submit your permanent residence application within 60 days. |
| Processing | Approx. 6 months | IRCC processes complete applications under service standards. |
| Landing | Upon approval | Receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and plan your move. |
FAQs
What are the new Express Entry categories for 2025?
IRCC will run category-based draws that prioritize French-language speakers and candidates with experience in healthcare, trades, STEM, agriculture and education.
How does the CRS score work?
The CRS scores candidates based on factors like age, education, language, work experience and adaptability. A higher score increases your chances of receiving an ITA.
Do I need a job offer?
No, a job offer is not required but it can boost your CRS score by up to 200 points and help you qualify under provincial nominee streams.
Can I apply from Nigeria?
Yes. Applicants from any country can submit an Express Entry profile. You may need to provide police certificates and biometrics as part of your application.
Are French skills mandatory?
French is not mandatory but proficiency can help you qualify for category-based draws and earn additional CRS points.
• Information may change; always refer to official IRCC pages before applying.