Canada’s Express Entry system underwent significant changes in February 2025, particularly affecting the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) category. These modifications have altered the landscape for many prospective immigrants, with 19 occupations removed and six new ones added to the STEM category. Understanding these changes is crucial for applicants aiming to secure Canadian permanent residency through this pathway.
Updated STEM Occupations List (2025)
As of February 2025, the STEM category under Express Entry comprises the following 11 occupations. Newly added occupations are highlighted in bold:
Occupation | NOC Code |
Architecture and science managers | 20011 |
Civil engineering technologists and technicians | 22300 |
Civil Engineers | 21300 |
Cybersecurity specialists | 21220 |
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians | 22310 |
Electrical and electronics engineers | 21310 |
Geological Engineers | 21331 |
Industrial and manufacturing engineers | 21321 |
Insurance agents and brokers | 63100 |
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22301 |
Mechanical Engineers | 21301 |
Note: The bolded occupations were added to the STEM category in February 2025.
Determining Your Eligibility
To qualify for the STEM category under Express Entry, applicants must:
Newly Added Occupations and Example Job Titles
The following occupations were added to the STEM category in February 2025, along with example job titles:
NOC Code | Occupation Title | Example Job Titles |
22300 | Civil engineering technologists and technicians | Bridge design technician |
22310 | Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians | Communications technologist |
21331 | Geological Engineers | Geophysical engineer |
22301 | Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians | Aeronautical technologist |
21301 | Mechanical Engineers | Acoustics engineer |
63100 | Insurance agents and brokers | Insurance sales representative |
Removed occupations
The below occupations which were earlier a part of the STEM category, prior to having been removed in February of 2025:
Job Title | NOC Code |
Architects | 21200 |
Business systems specialists | 21221 |
Computer and information systems managers | 20012 |
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) | 21311 |
Computer systems developers and programmers | 21230 |
Data scientists | 21211 |
Database analysts and data administrators | 21223 |
Engineering managers | 20010 |
Information systems specialists | 21222 |
Land surveyors | 21203 |
Landscape Architects | 21201 |
Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries | 21210 |
Metallurgical and materials engineers | 21322 |
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers | 41400 |
Software developers and programmers | 21232 |
Software engineers and designers | 21231 |
Urban and land use planners | 21202 |
Web designers | 21233 |
Web developers and programmers | 21234 |
Impact of Changes
The removal of 19 occupations from the STEM category means that many professionals who previously qualified may no longer be eligible under this specific category. Conversely, the addition of six new occupations opens opportunities for individuals in these roles to apply through the STEM category. It's essential for applicants to stay informed about these changes and assess their eligibility accordingly.
Next Steps
If you believe your occupation aligns with the updated STEM category:
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To know more and apply for immigration to Canada in 2025, you may get in touch with our registered Canada migration expert at Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.