Canada’s First 2025 Express Entry Draw Targets Trade Jobs
Canada’s Express Entry system is a popular pathway for international job seekers looking to make their mark in the Great White North. Recently, on September 18, Canada held an Express Entry draw specifically targeting trade occupations, issuing 1,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). This significant step marked the first draw of the year focused on trade.
To put this in perspective, the minimum score required on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)—which rates candidates based on various factors such as age, education, and work experience—was 505 points. That’s quite a leap from previous draws that saw a requirement of 462 points for education-related occupations.
This year’s drawing didn’t occur in isolation. Up until now, Canada has conducted a variety of Express Entry draws in 2025, including:
– 17 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws (PNP allows provinces to select candidates to fill regional labour shortages)
– Nine Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws (for those who have recent Canadian work experience)
– Five targeted toward French language proficiency
– Numerous other draws focused on sectors such as healthcare, education, and social services.
The number of ITAs issued has surged in 2025, with over 64,547 invitations so far, edging closer to the figures seen in 2024, when a total of 98,903 ITAs were granted.
As a potential candidate, securing a job offer can significantly boost your chances of an ITA. If you’re exploring job opportunities from abroad, remember our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, is dedicated to Canadian jobs that offer visa sponsorship to international applicants. You’ll find every listing includes visa support.
If you’re an employer considering hiring foreign talent, one effective strategy is to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This is a document that assesses the need for a foreign worker for the job in question. Alternatively, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) lets provinces nominate individuals based on their specific labour market needs.
So, what should candidates do next? It’s vital to work towards securing an approved job offer as it’s one of the best ways to increase your chances for an ITA in subsequent draws. You can also complete our free online evaluation at VisaJobsCanada.com. Within a couple of business days, we’ll provide you with tailored feedback on your eligibility for Canadian immigration.
Having reliable information can make a world of difference in this process, especially considering the complexities involved in Canadian immigration policies. The immigration landscape is always evolving, so staying informed is essential for navigating this journey successfully.
If you have more questions about visa procedures, job opportunities, or what it’s like living in Canada, feel free to explore our website or leave a comment below. We’re committed to helping you every step of the way as you embrace this exciting opportunity!
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