Top Occupations with the Highest Chances of PR Through Express Entry

Canada’s Express Entry system remains one of the most popular and efficient pathways for skilled workers seeking permanent residence (PR). However, not all occupations have the same chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA). Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regularly prioritizes specific job roles based on labour market shortages, economic needs, and sector developments.

Key Takeaways

• Express Entry prioritises occupations based on Canada’s labour market needs
• Healthcare, STEM, trades, transportation, and agriculture jobs have the highest PR chances
• Category-based draws often require lower CRS scores
• Correct NOC selection is critical for eligibility
• Expert guidance from Idea Immigration can significantly improve application success

If you are planning to apply for Canada PR, understanding what occupations are currently in demand can greatly improve your success rate. In this blog, we explore the best companies with the greatest chance of PR through Express Entry, how category-based draws work, and what applicants should know before applying. Working for at least six months in certain occupations can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence (PR). To access these benefits, candidates must obtain work experience in one of the occupations included in the Express Entry categories and await selection in an eligible draw for an invitation. This article will cover in-demand jobs in each of Express Entry’s current occupation-based categories, including:

What are category-based selections?

In the category-based round of invitations, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites candidates to the Express Entry pool who are eligible for a specific category established by the Minister to meet an identified economic or demographic target.

Categories may therefore be based on official language skills, work experience in a specific occupation or other factors deemed important by the Canadian Minister of Immigration.

Even in category-based rounds, IRCC still,

• Identifies qualified candidates in the pool;
• They are ranked by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS); and
• Inviting the highest-ranked qualified candidates.

Understand Express Entry and business-based draws

Express Entry administers applications under three main federal programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Trade Program (FSTP)

In recent years, IRCC has introduced category-based draws aimed at candidates with specific work experience, language skills or education in in-demand occupations. This means that your job title and National Occupational Classification (NOC) code play an important role in your PR opportunities.

Candidates working in priority occupations often receive invitations with lower CRS score requirements, making Express Entry more accessible than ever.

 

What do I need to do to be eligible for the Express Entry business category?

To be eligible for category-based selection under a business category, you must:

Be eligible under one of the three Express Entry programs with an active candidate profile in the Express Entry pool;

Have at least six months of work experience (in Canada or abroad) during the past three years in an occupation included in one of the categories;

Fulfill any other conditions in the ministerial directive for the draw in question.

The work experience requirement is higher for the newly introduced Physicians with Canadian Work Experience category.

Healthcare and social services occupations

This category includes a mix of regulated health professions (physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, and General Practitioners) and social services roles (e.g., social workers). In 2025, IRCC designated this category as a priority through the Express Entry system.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Occupations

STEM professionals remain critical to Canada’s innovation-driven economy. These roles consistently appear in Express Entry draws due to high demand and limited domestic supply. This category focuses heavily on engineering roles, including engineering technologists/technicians and electrical and mechanical engineers, web developers, as well as cybersecurity.

Trades and Technical Occupations

Trades and technical occupations play a vital role in supporting Canada’s infrastructure development, housing projects, and overall industrial growth. Due to ongoing labour shortages in these fields, Canada actively invites skilled tradespeople through Express Entry and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Occupations such as electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters, HVAC technicians, and heavy equipment mechanics are consistently in high demand across multiple provinces. Applicants applying under the Federal Skilled Trades Program often benefit from lower CRS score requirements compared to other Express Entry streams, making this pathway especially attractive for qualified and experienced trades professionals seeking permanent residency in Canada.

Agriculture and agri-food occupations

Farm supervisors, agricultural technicians, food processing supervisors, and meat cutters or industrial butchers play a crucial role in supporting Canada’s agri-food sector and ensuring food security across the country. Due to labour shortages, especially in rural and regional areas, these occupations are frequently included in category-based Express Entry draws and regional immigration programmes. Candidates with relevant experience in these roles often benefit from targeted invitations and improved chances of permanent residency, making agriculture and agri-food occupations a strong pathway for skilled workers looking to settle in Canada.

Education and Social Services Occupations

Certain education and social support roles are prioritised in Canada to strengthen community development and enhance social well-being. Occupations such as early childhood educators, teaching assistants, social workers, and community support workers are increasingly in demand across provinces. Candidates with the right qualifications and relevant work experience in these fields have seen improved opportunities for permanent residency, as these roles are often considered essential to supporting families, education systems, and vulnerable communities.

How to Improve Your PR Chances Through Express Entry

Even if your occupation is in demand, strategic preparation is essential. Improving your CRS score through:

• Higher language test results (IELTS/CELPIP)
• Educational credential assessments (ECA)
• Gaining additional work experience
• Provincial nominations

Working with a professional consultant, such as Idea Immigration, can help you identify the best Express Entry strategy based on your occupation, profile, and long-term goals.

How IRCC chooses categories

These categories are developed using labour market data and future workforce projections, along with input from key partners such as provinces, territories, and other stakeholders. They are closely aligned with Canada’s broader demographic and labour market objectives, as IRCC is mandated by the federal government to address ongoing labour shortages while also supporting the balanced use of both official languages across the country.

Choosing the right occupation-based pathway can make a significant difference in your Express Entry success. Canada’s focus on targeted labour shortages has opened doors for skilled professionals across healthcare, technology, trades, transportation, and agriculture sectors. By aligning your profile with in-demand occupations and preparing a strong application, you can greatly improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residency. With the right strategy, Express Entry remains one of the fastest and most reliable ways to build a future in Canada. Contact us today to assess your eligibility and receive expert guidance tailored to your immigration goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which occupation has the highest PR success rate through Express Entry?

Healthcare and STEM occupations currently have the strongest PR outcomes due to consistent category-based draws and labour shortages.

Can I apply for Express Entry if my occupation is not listed?

Yes. General draws still occur, but your chances may be higher if your job falls under a priority category or if you receive a provincial nomination.

Does work experience outside Canada count?

Yes. Foreign work experience is valid under the Federal Skilled Worker Program if it meets IRCC requirements.

What CRS score is required for in-demand occupations?

Category-based draws often have lower CRS cut-offs compared to general draws, but scores vary depending on the occupation and draw type.

Should I consult an immigration expert?

Yes. A regulated consultant like Idea Immigration can assess your profile, ensure correct documentation, and guide you through the Express Entry process efficiently.