In a significant push to welcome skilled foreign professionals, Canada’s top employers are actively hiring for category-based Express Entry jobs across STEM, healthcare, trades, and more. Whether you're already in Canada on a work permit or applying from abroad, this hiring trend opens a strategic gateway to Canada permanent residency (PR).
According to Forbes' 2025 list of top 100 Canadian employers, several private and public sector companies are offering positions that qualify under the category-based draws of the Express Entry system. These draws focus on in-demand roles, helping candidates with specific work experience fast-track their PR journey.
Use the Canada PR Points Calculator to check your CRS score and find out if you qualify for permanent residency through Express Entry.
What Are Category-Based Express Entry Draws?
Introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), category-based draws target candidates with specific skills and job experience in key sectors. If you’ve worked for at least six months in an eligible occupation, you could qualify.
Priority Categories for Express Entry in 2025:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare and Social Services
- Trades occupations
- Education occupations
Why This Matters for You?
If you apply for jobs aligned with these categories, your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian PR increase significantly. Whether you are on an open work permit in Canada or applying from India or elsewhere, this is the time to act.
Top Canadian Employers Hiring for Category-Based Express Entry Roles (2025)
Here’s a detailed table of Canada’s top employers hiring for Express Entry-eligible occupations, with associated NOC codes and industries:
| Company Name | Rank | Industry | Express Entry Eligible Roles (NOC Code) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Technology | Cybersecurity specialists (21220) | |
| Microsoft | 2 | Technology | Cybersecurity specialists (21220), Electrical engineers (21310), Tech technologists (22310) |
| The Hershey Company | 5 | Food Manufacturing | Industrial electricians (72201) |
| Parks Canada (Public) | 12 | Government | Carpenters (72310), Electricians (72200), Welders (72106) |
| Fisheries & Oceans Canada (Public) | 13 | Government | Civil engineers (21300), Cooks (63200), Mechanical engineers (21301) |
| BC Hydro (Public) | 18 | Utilities | Civil engineers (21300), Electrical engineers (21310) |
| OpenText | 24 | Software | Cybersecurity specialists (21220) |
| CHEO (Hospital) | 31 | Healthcare | Nurses (31300), Pharmacists (31120), Therapists (41301) |
| The Co-operators | 33 | Financial Services | Insurance agents & brokers (63100) |
| Workers’ Comp Board AB (Public) | 34 | Healthcare / Insurance | Physician assistants (31303), Physiotherapists (31202) |
| Tesla | 39 | Automotive / Tech | Mechanical engineers (21301), Technologists (22301) |
| Fortis | 45 | Utilities | Industrial engineers (21321), Electricians (72201) |
| Agnico Eagle | 47 | Mining | Millwrights (72400), Equipment mechanics (72401) |
CRS Cut-Off Scores for Category-Based Draws (Latest)
| Category | CRS Cut-off Score |
|---|---|
| STEM Occupations | 491 |
| Healthcare & Social Services | 504 |
| Trades Occupations | 433 |
Note: These scores may change based on draw volumes and candidate profiles.
Eligibility for Category-Based Express Entry
To qualify for a category-based draw under the Express Entry system, you must:
- Have 6 months of continuous work experience in one eligible NOC code (within the last 3 years)
- Meet general Express Entry criteria (age, education, language, etc.)
General Express Entry Requirements by Program:
| Requirement | CEC | FSWP | FSTP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Experience | 1 year in Canada (last 3 years) | 1 year continuous (last 10 years) | 2 years full-time (last 5 years) |
| Job Offer | Not required | Not required | Required or Trade Certification |
| Language | CLB 5–7 | CLB 7 | CLB 4–5 |
| Education | Not required | Required | Not required |
| Settlement Funds | Not required | Required | Required |
Tips for Securing a PR-Eligible Job in Canada
Here are some quick tips if you want to align your job search with category-based Express Entry draws:
- Target In-Demand Roles:
- Review Job Descriptions:
- Apply to Top Employers:
- Check Public Sector Rules:
Focus on jobs in STEM, healthcare, trades, or education sectors.
Match duties with NOC codes from IRCC’s NOC database.
Prioritize companies listed above for better Express Entry prospects.
These jobs prioritize Canadian citizens/PRs but may still offer contract roles for foreign nationals.
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You
Visa Solutions 4u is your one-stop guide to navigating Canada immigration through Express Entry. Here's how we can support your journey:
- Personalized Express Entry profile evaluation
- Job-matching with category-based Express Entry roles
- Help in selecting the correct NOC codes
- Full support for resume building, job search, and applications
- Assistance with PR documentation, WES, IELTS, and more
- Post-landing services, including accommodation and local guidance
With our team of experts and strong employer connections, Visa Solutions 4u simplifies the entire process, from planning to PR success.
Apply for Canada PR visa from India with expert guidance. Get step-by-step support on eligibility, documentation, and the application process.
Conclusion
In 2025, Canada's Express Entry system is leaning heavily on category-based selection. Top Canadian employers are hiring for exactly the kinds of roles the government is prioritizing. If you're dreaming of Canadian PR, now is the time to align your job search and take strategic action. Understand the system, target the right roles, and let experts like VisaSolutions4U guide your every step toward success.
Stay ahead. Stay informed. Start your Canada PR journey now.
