These Low-Education Occupations are Eligible for Category-Based Express Entry Draws

In recent years, many Express Entry draws have been category-based, only inviting candidates with work experience in priority occupations. Candidates with work experience in other occupations might be wondering how they can become eligible for these category-based draws without spending years retraining in a new field. We’ve put together a list of the Express Entry occupations that: (1) are eligible for category-based draws; and (2) require the lowest levels of education.

With minimal training, you can begin working in these occupations which may make you eligible for a category-based draw. However, be sure to calculate your potential CRS score in advance to ensure that you’ll be competitive once you gain the requisite experience.

Please note: We have not included STEM occupations in this list. While there have been category-based draws for STEM occupations in the past, the Canadian government has not indicated that these occupations will be prioritized in 2025 and beyond.

Considerations Before Retraining for a Category-Based Draw Occupation

Before committing to one of these occupations, there are a few things to consider:

How much work experience do I need to quality for a category-based Express Entry draw?

In all previous category-based Express Entry draws, IRCC has required candidates to have six-months of continuous full-time work experience in one of the priority occupations (or an equivalent amount in part-time experience) and this experience must have been gained within the three years prior to the draw date.

Note: It is possible that IRCC may change these parameters in the future. Categories are reviewed on an annual basis, so there is a risk that by the time a candidate gains enough eligible work experience, the occupation may no longer be targeted.

What do I need to prove my work experience in Express Entry?

If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Express Entry, then you will have to submit documentation proving you meet the work experience you’ve claimed in your profile. Generally, you can do this by submitting work reference letters from any past or current employers. These letters must attest to the duties and responsibilities you performed at your job, and they must match the duties listed in the NOC codes for the occupations you claimed.

There are additional requirements that must be met for these letters, as well as alternative documentation options in the event you cannot obtain such a letter. For full details, refer to our guide on work reference letters for Express Entry.

Will I be able to work in this occupation in Canada?

Many of the listed occupations require licensing or certification in order to work in Canada. Typically, this certification is handled at the provincial level and may vary from province-to-province. Before committing to your new occupation, research the provincial certification requirements, as you may need to prepare to go through a months’ long process upon arrival in Canada.

If you’re already in Canada, you will need to obtain the proper certification before you can begin working in this occupation, as indicated in the requirements below.

Can I study for this occupation in Canada? Will this qualify me for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

In certain cases, yes, you can complete educational training for some of these occupations in Canada. If completed at a Designated Learning Institution, these courses should make you eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), enabling you to stay in Canada and gain Canadian work experience. However, it is important to check the specific course and school to ensure PGWP eligibility.

As an example, the Pharmacy Technician Diploma offered by Humber College is a two-year program which is eligible for a PGWP.

Occupations Eligible for Category-Based Express Entry Draws with Low Education or Training Requirements

Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)

Job Description:

Teacher assistants play a vital role in the classroom, offering direct support to students and helping teachers with a variety of instructional and non-instructional tasks. They often work with individual students or small groups, reinforcing lessons and promoting personal development. Many also support students with special needs, requiring patience and additional training. These positions exist in public and private schools as well as special needs institutions and treatment centres.

Job Duties:

• Assist students with integration into the classroom and school setting
• Help students individually or in small groups with assignments and reinforce learning under the supervision of a teacher
• Support students with special needs using methods such as sign language, braille, or remedial programs
• Monitor and report student progress
• Supervise students during gym, lab, library, or field trip activities
• May help with operating AV equipment and assist in school libraries or offices
• May monitor students during lunch or recess periods

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is required
• Most teacher assistants complete a 10-month college program in educational assistance or a related social science field
• Specialized training and experience are typically required for working with students with special needs

Minimum Training Time:

• Entry-level positions typically require completion of a 10-month college certificate program, though shorter pathways may exist for assistants not working with special needs students

Category: Education Occupations

Butchers – Retail and Wholesale (NOC 63201)

Job Description:

Retail and wholesale butchers are responsible for preparing standard and specialty cuts of meat, poultry, fish, and shellfish for sale. They work in grocery stores, supermarkets, butcher shops, and fish markets. In addition to cutting and preparing meat products, they may also be responsible for managing inventory, maintaining food safety standards, and providing customer service.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school may be required.
• Completion of a college butchery program or training course may be required.
• Several months of on-the-job training are common, especially in retail environments.

Minimum Training Time:

• Entry-level positions may be available after a few months of on-the-job training.

Category: Agriculture and agri-food occupations

Floor Covering Installers (NOC 73113)

Job Description:

Floor covering installers lay carpet, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, and other types of flooring in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. The work involves precise measurement, surface preparation, and the use of various adhesives and tools. This trade requires attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a variety of environments.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• A 2- to 3-year apprenticeship or over 4 years of work experience is generally required.
• Trade certification is compulsory in Quebec and voluntary in other provinces.
• Red Seal endorsement is available for this occupation in Canada, allowing certified workers to move between provinces.

Minimum Training Time:

• While full certification takes several years, basic work can begin in under 1 year through entry-level positions or pre-apprenticeship programs.

Category: Trade Occupations

Painters and Decorators (NOC 73112)

Job Description:

Painters and decorators apply paint, wallpaper, and other finishes to interior and exterior surfaces. They read job specifications, prepare surfaces, select and mix materials, and may advise clients on colors or finishes. They often work on ladders or scaffolding and must follow safety protocols.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• A 3- to 4-year apprenticeship or equivalent experience is typically necessary.
• Trade certification is compulsory in Quebec and voluntary elsewhere.

Red Seal endorsement is available for this occupation in Canada, allowing certified workers to move between provinces.

Minimum Training Time:

• Entry-level positions may be accessible with less than 1 year of on-the-job training.

Category: Trade Occupations

Roofers and Shinglers (NOC 73110)

Job Description:

Roofers and shinglers install, repair, and replace roofing systems on residential and commercial buildings. Roofers focus on flat roofing systems using materials like asphalt and waterproof membranes, while shinglers specialize in sloped roofs with shingles, shakes, or tiles. The work is physically demanding and done in various weather conditions.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• A 2- to 3-year apprenticeship or 3+ years of work experience is typical for roofers.
• Shinglers usually require 1 to 2 years of on-the-job training.
• Trade certification is compulsory in Quebec and voluntary in other regions.
• Red Seal endorsement is available for this occupation in Canada, allowing certified workers to move between provinces.

Minimum Training Time:

• Shinglers can start with 1–2 years of training. Entry-level laborers may start sooner with basic safety training.

Category: Trade Occupations

Concrete Finishers (NOC 73100)

Job Description:

Concrete finishers are skilled tradespeople who work on a wide range of concrete surfaces and structures. Their tasks include leveling, smoothing, and finishing freshly poured concrete, as well as applying sealants and repairing damaged areas. They work on projects like sidewalks, floors, roads, and high-rises.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• A 2- to 4-year apprenticeship or over 3 years of work experience is standard.
• Trade certification is compulsory in Quebec and voluntary in other provinces.
• Red Seal endorsement is available for this occupation in Canada, allowing certified workers to move between provinces.

Minimum Training Time:

• Entry-level jobs may be available after several months of on-the-job training or short courses.

Category: Trade Occupations

Cooks (NOC 63200)

Job Description:

Cooks prepare and cook a wide variety of meals in establishments like restaurants, hospitals, hotels, and camps. Their responsibilities may include preparing complete dishes, overseeing kitchen operations, managing inventory, and maintaining food safety standards.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Secondary school is usually required.
• A 3-year apprenticeship or culinary program or several years of commercial cooking experience may be needed.
• Trade certification is available but voluntary in all provinces.
• Red Seal endorsement is available for this occupation in Canada, allowing certified workers to move between provinces.

Minimum Training Time:

• Entry-level kitchen positions can be accessed with under a year of training or experience. On-the-job training is common.

Category: Trade Occupations

Pharmacy Technical Assistants and Pharmacy Assistants (NOC 33103)

Job Description:

These roles support pharmacists by preparing prescriptions, maintaining patient records, and managing inventories. Technical assistants focus more on preparing and compounding medications, while assistants handle clerical tasks and support dispensing.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Technical assistants: Completion of up to 2-year vocational program.
• Pharmacy assistants: 6- to 12-month college program, or secondary school plus on-the-job training.

Minimum Training Time:

• Pharmacy assistants may begin work after a few months of training or experience. Technical assistants typically require 1–2 years of education.

Category: Healthcare and Social Services Occupations

Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102)

Job Description:

These professionals assist nurses and other healthcare staff in providing basic care to patients. Duties include bathing, feeding, transporting patients, monitoring vital signs, and maintaining records. They work in hospitals, long-term care homes, and assisted living facilities.

Education & Training Requirements:

• Some secondary school and on-the-job training, or a short college/personal support worker program.
• CPR and first aid are usually required.

Minimum Training Time:

• College programs can be completed in 6 months, with entry-level work possible after a short training period or orientation.

Category: Healthcare and Social Services Occupations

Final Thoughts on Low-Education Occupations for Category-Based Draws

The occupations listed above present excellent opportunities for newcomers who wish to access the Express Entry system without spending years in training. While most do require specific certifications or apprenticeships for long-term advancement, many allow entry into the workforce with minimal education or training—helping you gain the Canadian work experience needed for immigration success. As always, check licensing requirements in your target province and verify that your chosen training program is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if studying in Canada.

If you’re unsure whether you’re competitive for Express Entry or you want help creating a plan for your Canadian immigration, we recommend booking a consultation with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant. We recommend a handful of experienced consultants whose reputations we’ve verified and whose work we trust. You can find more information about these consultants here.