Canada’s forecast for the 2025 Express Entry draws

While many countries are tightening their immigration policies, Canada is adjusting its Express Entry program to better meet the needs of its labor market.
In 2025, skilled workers with Canadian experience, French-speaking applicants, and professionals in high-demand sectors will have a greater chance of obtaining permanent residency.
These changes come as Quebec temporarily suspends some of its immigration pathways. A decision that could lead some candidates to consider other provinces.

Priority for candidates with Canadian work experience

Starting in 2025, candidates who have already worked in Canada will be given an advantage in Express Entry draws. This priority for applicants in the Canadian Experience Class aims to support the integration of those already familiar with the local labor market.

In 2023, over 80% of candidates invited through Express Entry had Canadian work experience. This trend is expected to strengthen with the new 2025 rules.

Targeted invitations to attract French-speaking and essential workers

To address shortages in strategic sectors, the government will continue to organize targeted draws for candidates who:

• Have strong French language skills. A measure aimed at reaching the target of 4.4% francophone immigration outside Quebec.
• Have professional experience in high-demand fields, including:
  • Healthcare and social services: doctors, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, chiropractors.
  • Skilled trades: carpenters, plumbers, electricians, welders.
  • Education: teachers, early childhood educators, specialized instructors.

Demand in these sectors is high. In fact, in 2022, Canada had nearly 100,000 job vacancies in the healthcare sector and over 50,000 in education.

A slowdown in Quebec, acceleration elsewhere?

While Canada is easing access to permanent residency for certain skilled workers, Quebec has suspended its Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP or PSTQ) until June 30, 2025.

Currently, only the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) remains open to workers. This suspension may redirect some talent to other provinces. Especially those who would have normally chosen Quebec for their immigration. With its new rules, the Express Entry program is becoming an attractive alternative for French-speaking individuals looking to settle in Canada.

Processing times: a decisive advantage for Express Entry

Processing time could tip the scales for many candidates.

• Under Express Entry, once invited, a candidate has 60 days to submit their application. IRCC aims to process it within 6 months.
• In comparison, in Quebec, the process can take up to 2 years, from provincial selection to obtaining federal permanent residency.

For skilled workers seeking fast access to permanent residency, Express Entry is becoming the most efficient option.

Reminder: What is the Express Entry program?

Launched in 2015, Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing economic immigration applications. It includes three programs:

• The Federal Skill Worker Program
• The Federal Skilled Trades Program
• The Canadian Experience Class

Candidates are assessed through a points-based system that considers their age, education level, work experience, and language skills. This system is designed to attract immigrants with the highest potential for integration and contribution to the Canadian economy.

Conclusion: Canada remains an attractive destination despite a context of restrictions.

Canada continues to open its doors to skilled workers, with a focus on French-speaking individuals and professionals in high-demand sectors. Despite recent restrictions on economic immigration, Express Entry remains a fast and efficient pathway to permanent residency.

For qualified candidates, opportunities remain abundant and processing times are shorter than ever. While some provinces like Quebec are slowing down admissions, the rest of Canada is actively seeking talent ready to contribute to its economy.

Tip: Make sure your Express Entry profile is up to date to maximize your chances of receiving an invitation in upcoming draws.

Thinking about moving to Canada? Check your eligibility with our free pre-assessment.

For guidance in choosing the best immigration program for your project and support throughout the process, feel free to contact our professionals at: info@immetis.com.