Maple News reports that foreign nationals struggling to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through Canada’s Express Entry may boost their chances by pivoting to in-demand occupations within targeted category-based draws. These specialized draws were introduced to streamline immigration for candidates with expertise in priority sectors such as healthcare, trades, agriculture, STEM, and education.
Candidates who lack a provincial nomination, advanced French proficiency, or a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the general or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) pool may find success through Express Entry’s occupation-specific pathways. To be eligible, applicants must have at least six months of continuous full-time—or equivalent part-time—work experience in a single qualifying occupation within the last three years.
Unlike traditional draws that often require a CRS above 480, category-based draws feature significantly lower thresholds. For example, trades-focused draws have seen cut-offs as low as 433, while healthcare draws have recently hovered around 510. This allows skilled workers in essential roles to stand out, even without the highest scores.
Maple News highlights several roles that are more accessible—either because they require little to no formal training or allow candidates to begin working relatively quickly. These include positions like nurse aides, pharmacy assistants, cooks, and various construction trades (e.g., concrete finishers, roofers, floor covering installers), many of which are SOWP-eligible, making it easier for spouses to work in Canada as well.
For those considering slightly more time-intensive paths, jobs like teacher assistants and medical lab technicians require anywhere from ten months to two years of training. Despite the additional preparation, these professions can lead to competitive opportunities in education and healthcare—both of which are focus sectors in Express Entry draws.
Wages in these roles also vary. Concrete finishers, for instance, earn a median of $32.76 per hour, while others like cooks or butchers earn lower median wages around $17–$19. However, for many newcomers, these occupations represent a viable route to achieving PR when other streams remain out of reach.
Applicants are reminded that eligibility and required credentials can differ by province, so it is advisable to consult local regulations when considering a career shift. Ultimately, those willing to retrain or switch careers may find that strategic alignment with Canada’s immigration priorities pays off.
With category-based draws becoming a central part of Canada’s immigration landscape, these occupational fast-tracks can offer a valuable advantage to candidates seeking entry under Express Entry.