Express Entry
Canada Express Entry Draw #368 for Trade Occupations Issues 1,250 Invitations in 2025
The first Canada Express Entry draw for trade occupations in 2025 has taken place, giving skilled workers in this field a strong opportunity to apply for permanent residency. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in this latest Express Entry Draw #368, marking a significant milestone for tradespeople hoping to build their future in Canada.
Why the Trade Occupations Draw Matters
Trades remain one of the backbones of Canada’s workforce. From construction to electrical, welding to mechanics, these professions are in high demand across the country. By launching a dedicated draw for trade occupations, IRCC is signaling the vital role tradespeople play in sustaining economic growth.
This draw required candidates to:
- Hold a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 505.
- Have submitted an Express Entry profile before November 5, 2025, at 10:36 p.m. UTC.
The higher cut-off score reflects the competitive nature of this draw, as it was the first in nearly a year for trade occupations.
Breakdown of Express Entry Draws in 2025
So far, IRCC has been very active in issuing ITAs across multiple categories. The following table highlights this year’s activity:
| Category | Number of Draws |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 17 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 9 |
| French Language Proficiency | 5 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 4 |
| Education | 2 |
| Trade Occupations | 1 |
In total, 61,047 invitations have been issued through Express Entry in 2025.
Trade Occupations in Focus
This year’s Canada Express Entry draw for trade occupations marks only the first round of invitations in this category, with more expected. According to an internal IRCC planning document, 3,300 ITAs are projected for trade workers during the second half of 2025. Since 1,250 have already been issued, another 2,050 invitations could follow before year-end, although IRCC may adjust this schedule depending on labour market needs.
This is positive news for international tradespeople looking to move to Canada. Occupations like carpenters, heavy equipment operators, electricians, and welders are consistently listed as in-demand, offering newcomers not just permanent residency but also career stability and long-term growth.
Express entry draw #368is a strong indicator that Canada continues to value skilled trades as essential to its economy. For those working in these fields, this creates a clear pathway to permanent residency and a chance to contribute to Canada’s future. With more draws expected this year, tradespeople around the world should stay prepared, update their profiles, and ensure their CRS scores remain competitive.
