Canada is one of the most popular countries for skilled immigrants looking to build a successful career abroad. Through the Express Entry system, foreign workers can apply for permanent residency and get access to high-paying jobs, some with salaries of $80,000 or more per year.
With industries like tech, engineering, healthcare, and skilled trades experiencing labor shortages, now is the best time to apply.
What Is Canada’s Express Entry System?
The Express Entry system is an online immigration application process used by the Canadian government to select skilled foreign workers for permanent residency. Launched in 2015, it manages applications under three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Applicants submit a profile and receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors like age, education, language ability, work experience, and job offers. The highest-ranking candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency during regular Express Entry draws.
Why Apply for Express Entry Jobs in 2025?
Canada’s labor market is facing shortages across many sectors due to population aging, increasing retirements, and industry expansion. To meet economic goals, the government is raising immigration targets and making it easier for foreign workers to apply.
In 2025, the following make Express Entry even more attractive:
- Faster processing times (as fast as 6 months)
- No job offer required to create a profile
- Opportunity to earn $80,000+ in high-demand roles
- Pathway to citizenship after permanent residency
- Eligibility to bring family members with full benefits
Skilled immigrants are contributing to Canada’s economic growth, and employers are actively recruiting qualified professionals through the Express Entry system.
Who Can Apply Through Express Entry?
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must:
- Be under 45 (younger applicants score higher)
- Have at least one year of continuous full-time skilled work experience
- Prove English or French proficiency (IELTS or TEF)
- Have a post-secondary diploma, degree, or trade certification
- Pass health and police clearance checks
- Score enough CRS points based on profile details
You don’t need a job offer to apply, but having one can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
High-Paying Jobs Available Through Express Entry
Here are some of the most in-demand jobs for foreign workers in 2025, many of which come with annual salaries over $80,000:
1. Software Developers and IT Professionals
Canada’s tech hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are hiring for roles like backend developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts, and DevOps engineers. Many employers are open to foreign workers with Express Entry profiles.
Average salary: $75,000 to $110,000 annually
2. Registered Nurses and Healthcare Workers
Healthcare is one of the top priority sectors. Canada is urgently hiring foreign-trained nurses, caregivers, and medical technologists, especially in provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia.
Average salary: $70,000 to $95,000 annually
3. Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
If you’re a licensed or experienced engineer, your chances of getting an ITA through Express Entry are strong. Canada needs infrastructure and renewable energy professionals.
Average salary: $80,000 to $120,000 annually
4. Skilled Trades Workers
Carpenters, welders, electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers are needed in nearly every province. The Federal Skilled Trades Program under Express Entry caters directly to this group.
Average salary: $60,000 to $90,000 annually (plus overtime)
5. Truck Drivers and Heavy Equipment Operators
Canada is experiencing a driver shortage. With proper licensing and experience, foreign drivers can qualify under some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) linked to Express Entry.
Average salary: $55,000 to $85,000 annually
6. Financial Analysts and Accountants
The banking and finance sector seeks professionals with global certifications like CPA, CFA, or ACCA. Experience in international finance is an asset.
Average salary: $75,000 to $100,000 annually
How to Apply for Express Entry Jobs as a Foreign Worker
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use the Canada Express Entry eligibility tool on the official immigration site (Canada.ca) to assess if you qualify. Make sure your documents are ready — passport, language test scores, education credential assessment (ECA), and work history.
Step 2: Create Your Express Entry Profile
Once eligible, create your Express Entry profile and enter your personal information, job experience, education, and language scores. You’ll receive a CRS score after submission.
Step 3: Improve Your CRS Score (Optional)
While waiting for an ITA, you can boost your score by:
- Getting a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Earning higher IELTS scores
- Completing additional education
- Getting a nomination from a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your score meets or exceeds the cut-off in a draw, you’ll receive an ITA. You’ll then submit documents for permanent residency — medical exam, police certificate, and proof of funds.
Step 5: Apply for Express Entry Jobs
While creating your profile, also apply directly to employers via:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed.ca
- Workopolis
- Sector-specific job portals (e.g., HealthForceOntario for nurses)
How Employers Help with Visa and Hiring
Though Express Entry doesn’t require a job offer, many employers help by:
- Providing LMIA-exempt job offers (e.g., through Global Talent Stream)
- Offering provincial nomination referrals
- Assisting with relocation
- Sponsoring spouse and children
- Helping fast-track work permits and PR applications
Tech companies, healthcare providers, construction firms, and transportation companies are most likely to offer this support.
Benefits of Express Entry Jobs for Foreign Workers
- High earning potential (many roles pay over $80K)
- Permanent residency within months
- Eligibility to sponsor family members
- Free public healthcare and education
- Right to live and work anywhere in Canada
- Path to citizenship after 3 years of PR status
You’ll also gain work experience in one of the most stable, multicultural, and inclusive countries in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need a job offer to apply for Express Entry?
No, but it significantly improves your CRS score and increases your chances of receiving an ITA.
Q2: Can I apply without a degree?
Yes, through the Federal Skilled Trades Program or PNPs. However, having post-secondary education improves your score.
Q3: How long does Express Entry take?
From profile creation to visa approval, it can take as little as 6 months if your documents are in order.
Q4: Can I bring my family?
Yes, your spouse or partner and dependent children can come with you. Your spouse may even work full-time.
Q5: What’s the minimum CRS score needed in 2025?
CRS cut-offs vary by draw. Scores have ranged from 465 to 525 depending on category and job type.
Conclusion
Canada’s Express Entry program is a powerful pathway for skilled foreign workers to secure $80K+ jobs, obtain permanent residency, and build a better life. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, trades, or logistics, there’s a place for your skills in Canada.
Start by creating your Express Entry profile, apply to in-demand roles, and connect with employers who are eager to sponsor your move. With streamlined processes and a booming job market, 2025 could be the year you finally turn your Canadian dream into reality.
Posting