Canada has boldly tackled labor shortages and boosted economic growth by prioritizing trades in its Express Entry system, opening new doors for international workers. With 25 trade occupations now eligible, including 19 newly added roles, this update could be your ticket to Canadian permanent residence — if you qualify.
This development follows Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s continued efforts to fine-tune Express Entry category-based draws. For skilled trade workers worldwide, this is the best time to apply for Canadian PR through Express Entry.
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What's New in the Express Entry Trade Category?
In one of the biggest updates to date, the Trade category saw the most additions, with 19 new occupations added and four removed. It now includes a total of 25 occupations that are in high demand across the country.
Let’s break down everything you need to know — from eligibility to how to check if your job qualifies.
List of 25 Eligible Trade Occupations (2025 Update)
Here’s the complete list of occupations now recognized under the Trade category for Express Entry:
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Bricklayers | 72320 |
| Cabinetmakers | 72311 |
| Carpenters | 72310 |
| Concrete Finishers | 73100 |
| Construction Estimators | 22303 |
| Construction Managers | 70010 |
| Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics | 72400 |
| Contractors & Supervisors (Oil & Gas Drilling & Services) | 82021 |
| Cooks | 63200 |
| Electrical Mechanics | 72422 |
| Electricians (except industrial/power systems) | 72200 |
| Floor Covering Installers | 73113 |
| Gas Fitters | 72302 |
| HVAC Mechanics | 72402 |
| Heavy-duty Equipment Mechanics | 72401 |
| Home Building & Renovation Managers | 70011 |
| Industrial Electricians | 72201 |
| Machinists & Tooling Inspectors | 72100 |
| Other Technical Trades | 72999 |
| Painters & Decorators (excluding interior) | 73112 |
| Plumbers | 72300 |
| Roofers & Shinglers | 73110 |
| Sheet Metal Workers | 72102 |
| Water Well Drillers | 72501 |
| Welders & Related Machine Operators | 72106 |
Keyword Tip: This list includes high-demand occupations under the Express Entry Trade category, opening multiple opportunities to apply for Canadian PR through Express Entry if you meet the criteria.
Do You Qualify for the Trade Category in Express Entry?
Here’s what makes you eligible under the Express Entry Trade category:
- At least 6 months of continuous full-time experience (or equivalent part-time) in one of the listed occupations.
- Experience must be within the last 3 years.
- Your job role must closely match the NOC’s lead statements and duties.
Note: You cannot combine work from different eligible occupations. For example, 2 months as a carpenter and 4 months as a plumber won’t qualify.
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How to Check If Your Job Qualifies (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit Canada’s official NOC website and search for the occupation title. Try using alternative job titles too.
Step 2: Review the duties and lead statements. Your actual job experience should align significantly with these.
Step 3: Check if your NOC code appears in the updated list above. If it does, you’re eligible to apply for Canadian PR through Express Entry under the trade stream.
Example Job Titles for Newly Added Trade Occupations
| NOC Title | Example Job Titles |
|---|---|
| Bricklayers | Brickmason, Stonecutter, Apprentice Bricklayer |
| Cabinetmakers | Furniture Cabinetmaker, Wood Furniture Maker |
| Concrete Finishers | Cement Mason, Concrete Finisher, Precast Concrete Finisher |
| Construction Estimators | Quantity Surveyor, Chief Estimator, Cost Estimator |
| Construction Managers | General Contractor, Project Manager, Site Manager |
| Cooks | First Cook, Grill Cook, Hospital Cook, Apprentice Cook |
| HVAC Technicians | Refrigeration Mechanic, Heating Mechanic |
| Sheet Metal Workers | Roofing Installer, Ventilation Technician |
This clarification of job titles makes it easier for applicants to understand their eligibility and confidently prepare to apply for Canadian PR through Express Entry.
Why This Update Matters
The Government of Canada continues to target labor shortages in key sectors. By emphasizing the Trade category in Express Entry, the country hopes to attract talent in construction, machinery, electrical work, and more.
This is especially good news for workers in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where many skilled tradespeople seek immigration opportunities. If you belong to this talent pool, now is the time to evaluate your profile and act.
Express Entry Trade Category at a Glance
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Trade Occupations (2025) | 25 |
| New Occupations Added (Feb 2025) | 19 |
| Work Experience Requirement | 6 months (full-time, continuous in the last 3 years) |
| Key Countries of Interest | India, Philippines, Nigeria, Mexico, Pakistan |
| Focus Sectors | Construction, Machinery, Electrical, Cooking, HVAC |
| Pathway Type | Category-Based Express Entry |
What Experts are Saying
“This is a game-changer for tradespeople globally,” says immigration analyst Maria Kent. “If you’ve been thinking about how to apply for Canadian PR through Express Entry, this could be your golden opportunity.”
“The added clarity and structure make it easier for foreign workers to match their experience to eligible roles,” added PR consultant Hardeep Singh from Ontario.
Final Thoughts: Time to Build Your Canadian Dream
If you’re in a skilled trade and dreaming of a life in Canada, the Canada Express Entry Trade category could be your fast-track route to permanent residence. Start by reviewing your NOC code, ensuring you meet the criteria, and submitting a strong Express Entry profile.
This pathway doesn’t just offer a visa — it’s a door to a better future.
