Canada is reducing the total number of immigrants it will accept, but it still needs people with specific job skills to fill labour shortages.
On February 27, 2025, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shared the top job categories for its Express Entry program.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an online system that handles applications for permanent residency for skilled workers. It usually takes about six months to process.
Canada’s priority jobs in 2025
Canada is focusing on workers in three main areas:
Health Care and Social Services
– Family doctors
– Nurse practitioners
– Dentists
– Pharmacists
– Psychologists
– Chiropractors
Trades
– Carpenters
– Plumbers
– Contractors
Education
– Teachers
– Child care educators
– Instructors for people with disabilities
Canada also wants to invite more French-speaking applicants as part of its plan to grow the Francophone population.
“Canada’s needs are changing, and so is the Express Entry system,” said Immigration Minister Marc Miller. “We want to fill job gaps, grow our economy, and support communities by inviting skilled workers from different fields.”
Express Entry Programs
Express Entry started in January 2015. It manages applications under these federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Part of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
According to Canada’s 2023 report, 120,770 people (including family members) became permanent residents through Express Entry.
Top 3 countries of accepted applicants in 2023:
- India – 54,015
- Nigeria – 9,200
- China – 5,115
The Philippines was 8th with 2,590 new residents in 2023 — similar to the past two years: 2,235 in 2022 and 2,940 in 2021.
Plan to cut overall immigration numbers
Even with the need for skilled workers, Canada is lowering its total immigration targets due to public concerns. Many citizens say too many newcomers are causing higher housing costs and pressure on services like healthcare.
Here are the new plans:
- 2025: From 500,000 → 395,000
- 2026: From 500,000 → 380,000
- 2027: From 500,000 → 365,000
So while fewer people overall may be accepted, those with needed skills — including from the Philippines — still have good chances under Express Entry.