Canada’s immigration system has undergone significant changes recently, with the government prioritizing skilled workers in trades for permanent residency through the Express Entry system. If you have experience in a trade occupation, this could be the golden opportunity you’ve been waiting for to secure a new life in Canada.

As of February 27, 2025, Canada revamped its Express Entry categories, particularly the Trade Occupations category, making it easier for skilled workers in specific trades to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). In this blog, we will walk you through these important changes, the eligibility criteria, and how ICC Immigration can help you secure your future in Canada.

What Is Express Entry and How Does It Work?

Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system for skilled workers, including those applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. The system uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to score candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for Permanent Residency through periodic draws. Historically, the CRS score threshold has been high, especially in the general draws. However, Canada’s recent changes to Express Entry now prioritize candidates from specific sectors, including the Trades category.

Major Changes to the Express Entry Trade Category in 2025

In 2025, Canada made substantial updates to the Trade Occupations category under Express Entry. The most significant change is the expansion of eligible occupations, with 19 new trades added to the list, making it more inclusive and offering greater opportunities to skilled tradespeople.

The newly updated Trade category now includes a total of 25 occupations, offering greater flexibility for applicants to qualify. These occupations are primarily in high-demand sectors such as construction, electrical work, cooking, and machinery repair.

List of Eligible Trade Occupations:

Some of the newly added occupations to the Trade category include:

• Bricklayers (NOC 72320)
  
• Cabinetmakers (NOC 72311)
  
• Carpenters (NOC 72310)
  
• Concrete finishers (NOC 73100)
  
• Electricians (NOC 72200)
  
• Gas fitters (NOC 72302)
  
• Heavy-duty equipment mechanics (NOC 72401)
  
• Industrial electricians (NOC 72201)
  
• Plumbers (NOC 72300)
  
• Welders (NOC 72106)
  

These professions are now eligible for the Express Entry Trade category if applicants meet the minimum eligibility criteria.

Note: Apprentices in these trades are also eligible, provided they have performed most of the duties required in their occupation.

Key Eligibility Requirements for the Trade Category

To be eligible for the Trade category under Express Entry, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Work Experience: You must have at least six months of continuous full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time experience) in an eligible trade occupation within the past three years. This work experience must align with the National Occupation Classification (NOC) code associated with your occupation. 
2. Occupation Matching: Ensure that your job experience closely matches the duties described in the NOC code for your occupation. You can verify this by consulting the Government of Canada’s NOC website and the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) site.
   
3. CRS Score: The CRS cut-off for the Trade category is generally much lower than that of general draws. For example, in 2024, the CRS score for Trade occupations ranged between 433 and 436, which is significantly lower than the general draw threshold, which ranged between 524 and 549.
   

This means that even if your CRS score is on the lower end, you may still qualify for an ITA under the Trade category, making it easier to obtain Permanent Residency.

Benefits of the New Trade Category in Express Entry

The Trade category changes have made it easier for skilled tradespeople to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Here are some key benefits:

1. Lower CRS Score Threshold: If your occupation qualifies under the Trade category, your chances of receiving an ITA increase significantly. The lower CRS score cut-off means that candidates with less experience or lower qualifications can still compete effectively.
   
2. High Demand for Skilled Trades: Canada has been experiencing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, particularly in areas such as construction, electrical work, and industrial mechanics. As a result, the Canadian government has placed a higher priority on attracting these workers to meet the growing demand.
   
3. More Occupations Added: With 19 new occupations added to the Trade category, more skilled workers now qualify for permanent residency. These include vital sectors such as plumbing, electrical work, cooking, and welding.
   
4. Work Experience Counts: The six-month work experience requirement makes it easier for workers with practical experience to qualify, even if they haven’t yet completed formal education or training programs.
   
5. Apprenticeship Opportunities: Apprenticeships are highly valued in the Trade category. If you are currently in an apprenticeship program, your work experience may still count toward your eligibility, increasing your chances of success.
   

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but with the right support, you can make your dream of permanent residency a reality. ICC Immigration is here to help you every step of the way.

Our team of immigration experts will guide you through the process, ensuring you are well-prepared to submit your Express Entry application. We specialize in Permanent Residency applications, including those for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other pathways. Our services include:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Whether you’re applying through Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or other immigration pathways, we ensure a smooth and efficient process.
  
• Work Permits and Study Permits: We can help you explore temporary options such as work permits and study permits, which can ultimately lead to Permanent Residency.
  
• Family Sponsorships: If your family is already in Canada, we can assist with family reunification through family sponsorships, simplifying the PR application process.
  
• Expert Legal Guidance: Our legal team is committed to ensuring full compliance with Canadian immigration policies, enhancing your chances of success.
  

Choosing to work with ICC Immigration means choosing a secure, reliable pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency. Our team is committed to helping you avoid the uncertainty and potential risks associated with asylum claims, and instead, we’ll help you take a strategic approach to building your future in Canada.

Conclusion

Canada’s Express Entry Trade category overhaul is a significant opportunity for skilled workers in trades to secure Permanent Residency. With more occupations added and lower CRS score thresholds, it’s an exciting time for tradespeople to pursue their Canadian dreams. If you think you qualify, don’t wait—act now to explore your options and increase your chances of success with ICC Immigration by your side.