If you’re struggling to earn an ITA (Invitation to Apply) via the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or lack a provincial nomination, occupation-based draws in Express Entry could be your best opportunity. These draws target specific job categories, in 2025, that include Education, Healthcare & Social Services, STEM, Trades, and Agriculture/Agri-food—and often have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws.
To qualify, candidates need at least six months of continuous full‑time (or equivalent part‑time) experience in a single eligible occupation.
Top “Easy Entry” Occupations in 2025
| Occupation | NOC | Study/Train Time | Recent CRS Cut-Off* | Median Pay (CAD/hr) | SOWP Eligible | ||
| Nurse aides & patient service associates | 33102 | Immediate | – | $23 | Yes | ||
| Pharmacy & pharmacy tech assistants | 33103 | Immediate | – | $20 | Yes | ||
| Cooks | 63200 | Immediate | 433 (Oct 2024) | $17 | No | ||
| Concrete finishers | 73100 | Immediate | – | $32.76 | Yes | ||
| Floor covering installers | 73113 | Immediate | – | $26.92 | Yes | ||
| Roofers & shinglers | 73110 | Immediate | – | $30 | Yes | ||
| Painters/decorators | 73112 | Immediate | – | $26 | Yes | ||
| Butchers (retail/wholesale) | 63201 | Immediate | 437 (Feb 2024) |
|
No | ||
| Elementary & secondary teacher assistants | 43100 | 10 mo–2 yr | 479 (May 2025) | $24.36 | Yes | ||
| Insurance agents & brokers | 63100 | A few weeks to months | 491 (Apr 2024) | $29.77 | No | ||
| Medical lab assistants | 33101 | 1–2 yr | 510 (May 2025) |
|
Yes |
*Based on the most recent category drawn as of publication. SOWP = spousal open work permit eligibility.
Spotlight: Teacher Assistants & Nurse Aides
- Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)
Work supporting students in classrooms. Diploma programs take 10–24 months; some roles require CPR/first aid. CRS cut-off: 479 (May 2025). - Nurse Aides/Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102)
Simple entry with minimal training. Can begin working immediately. CRS cut-off not available, but included in healthcare draws.
How Category-Based Draws Work
- Work experience: At least 6 months in your occupation within the past 3 years.
- Express Entry eligibility: Must be eligible under the FSWP, FSTP, or CEC programs.
- Occupation match: Must match a category drawn from the eligible occupations.
Example
Brian, a media graduate with a CRS of 470, took a TA training course and worked six months as a teaching assistant. His score rose to 505, placing him above the Education draw cut-off of 479, making him eligible for an ITA.
Why These Roles Stand Out
- Quick entry: Many require minimal training or certification.
- Decent earnings: E.g., concrete finishers ~ $32.76/hr, while teacher assistants earn ~$24/hr.
- SOWP eligibility: Allows spouses to obtain open work permits, adding value during PR processing.
Strategic Takeaway
If you’re facing Express Entry stagnation, switching to one of these targeted roles can offer a faster PR route with relatively low barriers. Prioritize occupations with lower training requirements, decent pay, and SOWP eligibility to boost your chances.
