In-Demand Jobs for Canada’s Category-Based Express Entry Draws & Spousal Work Permits

Canada is actively seeking skilled workers in high-demand sectors, offering priority immigration pathways through Express Entry category-based draws and spousal open work permits (SOWPs). If you have experience in healthcare, trades, or food services, you could have a higher chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency—and your spouse may qualify for an open work permit.

Here’s the latest on eligible occupations, job vacancy trends, and how to boost your immigration chances.

Canada’s Top 3 In-Demand Sectors (2025 Data)

Statistics Canada reports the highest job vacancy rates in:

1. Healthcare & Social Assistance (4.1%)

2. Accommodation & Food Services (4%)

3. Construction & Trades (3.2%)

Low-demand sectors have vacancy rates below 2%.

Express Entry Category-Based Draws: Eligible Occupations

To qualify for a category-based draw, you need 6+ months of full-time work experience in one of these high-demand fields.

1️⃣ Healthcare & Social Assistance (Highest Demand)

✅ Doctors, Nurses & Allied Health Professionals

• Physicians (NOC 31100, 31101, 31102)

• Nurses (NOC 31301, 32101)

• Pharmacists (NOC 31120)

• Dentists (NOC 31110)

• Psychologists (NOC 31200)

✅ Technologists & Support Roles

• Medical Lab Techs (NOC 32120)

• Paramedics (NOC 32102)

• Social Workers (NOC 41300)

📌 Full List of Eligible Healthcare NOCs

2️⃣ Construction & Trades

✅ Skilled Trades Workers

• Electricians (NOC 72200)

• Plumbers (NOC 72300)

• Welders (NOC 72106)

• Carpenters (NOC 72310)

✅ Supervisors & Technicians

• Construction Managers (NOC 70010)

• HVAC Mechanics (NOC 72402)

📌 Full List of Eligible Trades NOCs

3️⃣ Accommodation & Food Services

✅ Butchers (NOC 63201) – Agriculture & Agri-Food category
✅ Cooks (NOC 63200) – Trades category

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Eligibility

If you work in Canada on an eligible work permit, your spouse may qualify for an open work permit.

✅ Eligible Sectors for SOWP

✔ Healthcare (TEER 2 & 3 jobs)

• Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)

• Dental Hygienists (NOC 32111)

• Medical Lab Assistants (NOC 33101)

✔ Construction/Trades (TEER 2 & 3 jobs)

• Electricians (NOC 72200)

• Plumbers (NOC 72300)

• Heavy Equipment Operators (NOC 73400)

❌ Accommodation & Food Services jobs DO NOT qualify for SOWP.

📌 Check Full SOWP-Eligible NOCs

Which Provinces Have the Most Job Openings?

Highest job vacancy rates (April 2025):

• Manitoba (3.3%)

• Saskatchewan (3.3%)

• British Columbia (3.1%)

• Quebec (3.1%)

Lowest job vacancy rates:

• Newfoundland (2.1%)

• Ontario (2.5%)

How to Improve Your Immigration Chances

1. Check if your job qualifies for a category-based draw.

2. Get your credentials assessed if you’re in healthcare or trades.

3. Boost your CRS score with language tests or a job offer.

4. Apply for a provincial nomination (PNP) if eligible.

🚀 Need help? Book a free consultation with an immigration expert.

Key Takeaways

✔ Healthcare & trades workers have the best Express Entry chances.
✔ Spouses of skilled workers in TEER 2/3 jobs may get open work permits.
✔ Manitoba, Saskatchewan & BC have the most job openings.

📢 Is your occupation on the list? Start your Canada immigration journey with us today!