Canada’s New Express Entry Draw Targets Educators — Here’s How You Can Qualify
On May 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through a category-based Express Entry draw targeting professionals with recent work experience in education occupations. With a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 479, this draw was the first of its kind to focus exclusively on educators.
This significant policy shift reflects Canada’s growing need for qualified professionals in early learning, primary and secondary education, special needs instruction, and classroom support roles.
If you’re an international student in a teaching-related program or a temporary foreign worker (TFW) already employed in the education sector, this may be one of the most accessible pathways to permanent residence.
Which Occupations Were Targeted?
This draw focused on five education-related NOC codes:
NOC 42202 – Early Childhood Educators and Assistants
NOC 41221 – Elementary School Teachers
NOC 41220 – Secondary School Teachers
NOC 42203 – Instructors of Persons with Disabilities
NOC 43100 – Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants
While all five occupations are essential to Canada’s learning ecosystem, two stand out for being highly accessible and in urgent demand:
➡ Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202)
➡ Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)
NOC 42202 – Early Childhood Educators and Assistants
To Qualify as an ECE:
- Complete a certificate or diploma in Early Childhood Education from a recognized post-secondary institution (typically 1–2 years)
- Complete a practicum or supervised work placement in a licensed child care setting
- Obtain registration with your provincial or territorial regulatory body (e.g., the College of Early Childhood Educators in Ontario)
- Hold valid First Aid/CPR certification and pass a vulnerable sector police check
➤ Why It’s a Top Option for International Students and TFWs:
- Many international students enroll in ECE programs at community colleges with built-in co-ops or placements—qualifying as Canadian work experience
- After graduation, they are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing full-time work in licensed facilities
- TFWs working as in-home caregivers or early years support staff can transition into licensed ECE roles via bridging programs or short courses
- Some provinces offer expedited credential recognition for foreign-trained educators to join the regulated workforce
If you’ve completed—or are close to completing—an ECE program, you may already be eligible for Express Entry under the new education category.
NOC 43100 – Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants
Teacher assistants (TAs) work in elementary and high schools to provide classroom support, often to students with learning difficulties, behavioral needs, or language barriers. This role is increasingly important as Canadian classrooms become more diverse and inclusive.
➤ To Qualify as a TA:
- High school diploma plus a postsecondary certificate or diploma in educational assistance, special needs support, or early childhood education
- Experience working in a K–12 classroom, supporting lesson delivery or supervising students
- Background checks and potentially first aid certification, depending on the school board
➤ Why TAs Are a Strategic Pathway to PR:
- TAs are in-demand across school boards, especially in regions facing staffing shortages or with growing ESL populations
- International students in Education Support or Developmental Services programs can gain TA experience through practicums or internships
- TFWs working in private tutoring, daycare, or after-school programs may be eligible if their duties align with the NOC definition
- Experience as a TA also serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed teacher in Canada, offering longer-term career growth
Because NOC 43100 is considered TEER 3, one year of full-time experience in this role—acquired in Canada—meets the minimum work experience requirement for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) eligibility under Express Entry.
Other Targeted NOCs: Quick Overview
Occupation | Requirements |
NOC 41221 – Elementary School Teachers | Bachelor’s in education, supervised teaching practicum, and provincial certification |
NOC 41220 – Secondary School Teachers | B.Ed. + specialization in a teachable subject, licensing from province or territory |
NOC 42203 – Instructors of Persons with Disabilities | Education in special needs or developmental services, experience with inclusive classrooms |
How Our Firm Can Assist You
📌 How Elliott Immigration Corporation Can Help
At Elliott Immigration Corporation, we support educators, support workers, and aspiring permanent residents through every step of the immigration process.
Whether you are:
- An international student completing your practicum in an ECE or TA role
- A TFW employed in a school, daycare, or education support setting
- A foreign-trained educator seeking a permanent path to teaching in Canada
… we can help you:
- Assess your eligibility under the new Express Entry education draw
- Match your experience to the correct NOC code
- Ensure your proof of work meets IRCC’s Express Entry requirements
- Guide you through provincial registration, credential recognition, and next steps
🎓 Ready to Build a Future in Canada’s Education Sector?
This is a rare opportunity to secure permanent residence through a profession you already love. But immigration draws can change quickly — and your eligibility may depend on how well your profile is prepared.
📩 Email: contact@canadianimmigrationpartners.com
📞 Phone: 647-557-2288
🧑💼 Consultation: www.canadianimmigrationpartners.com/consultation/
Let’s turn your classroom experience into a pathway to permanent residence.
