- At least 6 months full-time equivalent in a single licensed trade occupation over the past 3 years.
- Must hold an eligible NOC 2021 code, such as:
- Construction Managers (70010), Carpenters (72310), Plumbers (72300), Electricians (72200), Cooks (63200), Machinists (72100), and others.
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Government of Canada + 2 - Experience can be in Canada or abroad.
- You must meet all Express Entry program criteria and the specific requirements in each round’s ministerial instructions.
2025 Express Entry: Trade Occupations
In 2025, IRCC continues to prioritize skilled trade professionals through category-based EE draws. If you’ve got at least six months of full-time experience in an eligible trade—either in Canada or abroad.
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EE Updates
The first Express Entry draw for Trade Occupations in 2024 was just held. Express Entry draw #300 saw a CRS score of 436 and invited 1,800 candidates eligible for category-based selection in specific occupations for this category.
Explore Latest Draw in Trades
| Application Type | Current Processing Time (April 1, 2025) | Previous Processing Time (March 4, 2025) | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada, Non-Quebec) | 11 months | 11 months | No Change |
| Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada, Quebec) | 35 months | 35 months | No Change |
| Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada, Non-Quebec) | 24 months | 24 months | No Change |
| Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada, Quebec) | 36 months | 35 months | Increases by 1 month |
| Parents/Grandparents PR (Non-Quebec) | 36 months | 33 months | Increases by 3 months |
| Parents/Grandparents PR (Quebec) | 48 months | 48 months | No Change |
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How to Apply For Trades under EE
The first step to being invited to apply in a trades-specific draw is to enter the Express Entry pool. To join the Express Entry pool of candidates, you must qualify for one of the following three programs.
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Focused Advantage
Targeted draws for trade occupations exclusively
Flexible Experience
Includes part-time equivalent experience over the past 3 years.
Wide Occupation Pool
Includes roles like plumbers, welders, cooks, and construction managers.
Continued Emphasis
Trades remain a key category along with healthcare and education.
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Eligiblity Criteria
NOC Occupations
- As of 2025, the eligible NOCs include:
- Construction Managers (NOC 70010)
- Carpenters (NOC 72310)
- Cooks (NOC 63200)
- Electricians (NOC 72200)
- Plumbers (NOC 72300)
- Machinists (NOC 72100)
- Painters, Welders, Roofers, and others
(Full list published in IRCC ministerial instructions for each draw.)
Proof of Funds Requirement
Unless you are currently authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer, you must show proof of settlement funds. IRCC updates the required amount annually. These funds must be:
- Readily available (not borrowed)
- In your name (or your spouse’s if accompanying)
- Demonstrated through official bank letters or financial statements
Language Requirements
Candidates applying under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) need to demonstrate language ability:
-
Speaking & Listening: CLB 5
-
Reading & Writing: CLB 4
If applying under FSW or CEC, the requirement may be higher (CLB 7 or above). Always check IRCC’s instructions for the round you’re invited in.
Work Experience Rules
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Minimum 6 months continuous experience in the last 3 years
-
Can be Canadian or foreign experience
-
Must match the lead statement & duties of the chosen NOC
-
Paid work only (volunteer or unpaid internships don’t count)
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Latest News and FAQ's
Are CRS cut-offs lower in category draws?
Not always. For example, Trades draws in 2023–2024 had cut-offs between 388–436, while Education’s first draw in 2025 required 479 CRS. Cut-offs depend on the number of candidates in the pool.
How did IRCC decide on the new categories?
According to IRCC, categories were chosen following mandatory discussions and public consultations with stakeholders including provinces and territories, members of industry, unions, employers, workers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, and immigration researchers and practitioners.
How often are these category draws held?
There is no fixed schedule. IRCC decides draw frequency based on annual immigration targets and labour market needs. Ministerial instructions outline details each time.
What categories are active in 2025 for Trades Occupation?
Trades Occupations
Healthcare & Social Services
Education Occupations
French-language Proficiency
(STEM, Transport, and Agriculture are no longer included in 2025).
Which occupations qualify under the Trades category?
The 2025 list includes 25 eligible NOCs such as construction managers, carpenters, plumbers, cooks, machinists, electricians, painters, and welders. IRCC added 19 trades and removed 4 this year.
Do I still need to have an Express Entry profile to be selected if I work in one of the eligible occupations?
Yes. Candidates must still meet the eligibility criteria for an Express Entry managed program. Eligible programs are the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.