Canada recently held its first Express Entry draw for trade occupations in 2025, issuing 1,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. The draw, which took place on September 18, 2025, targeted candidates with experience in specific trade occupations.
Key Details:
– Number of Invitations: 1,250
– Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Cut-off Score:505
– Eligible Occupations: 25 trade occupations, including:
– Construction Trades:
– Concrete finishers
– Painters and decorators
– Roofers and shinglers
– Electrical and Mechanical Trades:
– Electrical mechanics
– Water well drillers
– Other Trades:
– Contractors and supervisors in oil and gas drilling and services
– Floor covering installers
– Cooks (NOC 63200), reflecting Canada’s demand for trained culinary professionals
Requirements:
– At least 6 months of continuous, full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in one of the eligible trades within the past 3 years
– Meet all Express Entry program criteria (FSW, CEC, or FST)
CRS Score Trends:
– The CRS cut-off score for trade draws typically ranges from 380 to 450, but can fluctuate based on IRCC’s invitation numbers and pool composition
– The recent draw’s CRS cut-off score of 505 is significantly higher than previous draws, suggesting a more selective approach in 2025
