If you’re a STEM professional aiming for Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry, recent updates to the STEM category in 2025 could significantly impact your eligibility. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you determine if you qualify:
Express Entry STEM Category: Overview
Canada’s Express Entry system introduced category-based draws to address specific labor market needs. The STEM category targets professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, offering them a streamlined pathway to permanent residency. Notably, STEM-specific draws often have lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements compared to general draws.
Eligibility Criteria for the STEM Category
To qualify for the STEM category under Express Entry, you must:
Meet Core Express Entry Requirements:
- – Be eligible for one of the three federal immigration programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Kinh nghiệm tại Canada (CEC)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- – Have a valid Express Entry profile.
2. Possess Relevant Work Experience:
- – Accumulate at least 6 months of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience within the last 3 years.
- – Experience can be gained in Canada or abroad.
- – Work must align with an eligible STEM occupation as defined by the National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes.
3. Match Your Occupation to Eligible NOC Codes:
– Visit the Government of Canada’s NOC website to identify the NOC code corresponding to your job title.
– Ensure your job duties closely match those listed under the NOC’s lead statement and main responsibilities.
Updated STEM Occupations List for 2025
In 2025, the STEM category underwent significant changes, with 19 occupations removed and 6 new ones added. Some of the current eligible occupations include:
Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
Mechanical Engineers (NOC 21301)
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC 21310)
Software Developers (NOC 21232)
Cybersecurity Specialists (NOC 21220)
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers (NOC 21321)
Geological Engineers (NOC 21331)
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians (NOC 22300)
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians (NOC 22301)
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians (NOC 22310)
Insurance Agents and Brokers (NOC 63100)
CRS Score Advantage
One of the significant benefits of the STEM category is the potential for lower CRS score requirements. For instance, while general draws in 2024 required CRS scores between 524–549, STEM-specific draws had cutoffs as low as 491, inviting thousands of candidates.
Steps to Determine Your Eligibility
Identify Your NOC Code:
Use the NOC website to find the code matching your job title.
Verify Job Duties:
Ensure your work experience aligns with the main duties and responsibilities listed under the identified NOC code.
Assess Work Experience Duration:
Confirm you have at least 6 months of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience in the identified occupation within the last 3 years.
Evaluate Express Entry Program Eligibility:
Determine if you meet the criteria for FSWP, CEC, or FSTP.
