Many newcomers and international students in Canada wonder: “Which jobs should I target to qualify for PR through Canada’s special category draws?” The answer is crucial because with just six months of Canadian work experience in the right occupations, you can boost your chances of permanent residency (PR).
At Globexa Immigration, we help applicants understand the best strategies to achieve Canadian PR. In this guide, we’ll share six specific jobs across three special categories (Trade, Healthcare, and Education) that can open new pathways for you—even if you don’t have prior experience in those fields.
1. Why Focus on Special Category Jobs in Canada?
Canada’s immigration system offers multiple routes such as Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and even French language streams. But special category jobs are unique:
They create new PR opportunities even with only six months of Canadian work experience.
They are accessible to people from any academic background (arts, commerce, engineering, etc.).
Some jobs require no prior education or license, making them entry-level friendly.
So, whether you are already working in IT, security, or retail, you can parallelly build your profile with special category roles and improve your immigration chances.
2. Category 1: Trade Jobs
If you have contacts or references in the construction field, you can directly target these three jobs.
Roofers – NOC 731
Painters – NOC 73112
Floor Covering Installers – NOC 73113
Why these jobs?
No license required.
No prior background in construction needed.
Anyone can work for six months and become eligible for PR under special draws.
Tip: Always confirm with your employer that your job offer matches the correct NOC code.
3. Category 2: Healthcare Jobs
Healthcare remains one of Canada’s most in-demand sectors. With a short course or certificate, you can qualify for jobs that lead to PR.
Personal Support Worker (PSW) – NOC 33102
Requires a 6-month certificate program.
Improves employability and opens doors to long-term opportunities.
Pharmacy Technical Assistant / Pharmacy Assistant – NOC 33103
Usually a 6-month certificate.
License required, but once obtained, job prospects are strong.
After six months of work in these roles, you become eligible for Healthcare Special Category Draws.
Recent cut-offs:
Trade: CRS cut-off around 433
Healthcare: CRS cut-off around 475
4. Category 3: Education Jobs
Education is another strong sector for special draws, especially for those who enjoy working with children.
Early Childhood Educators & Assistants – NOC 4202
Requires a 6-month certificate in Ontario (approved by NAC/NACCC) or a shorter course in British Columbia (as little as 2 months).
Internship included, which helps secure employment.
In many provinces, you can work without a license, but having one makes you more competitive.
Recent cut-off: Education category draws had a CRS cut-off around 479.
5. How to Strategically Use These Jobs
Combine roles with your main job: For example, you might be an IT engineer working full-time, but parallelly do six months as a roofer or PSW. This way, you qualify under both CEC and special draws.
Certificates can be done alongside studies: Even as a full-time student or on an open work permit, you can complete these certificates.
Multiple pathways: Six months in trade, healthcare, or education adds an extra option for PR, without replacing your main career.
6. Colleges & Certificates to Explore
Several career colleges in Ontario and British Columbia offer short certificates that make you job-ready:
Central College (Ontario) – Online study + local internship (PSW, Early Childhood Educator).
Royal College – PSW programs.
Western Community College (BC) – Popular for Early Childhood Assistant programs.
At Globexa Immigration, we assist students and workers in securing admission into these certificate programs and guide them through the PR process.
Final Thoughts
Targeting the right special category jobs can significantly increase your chances of Canadian PR. Even with just six months of experience, you can qualify under draws for Trade, Healthcare, or Education.
👉 If you are already inside Canada and unsure about your best PR pathway, we at Globexa Immigration can evaluate your profile, suggest the right NOC codes, and even help you enroll in certificate programs that lead to employment and PR eligibility.
Contact Globexa Immigration today to explore your personalized options for Canada PR through special category jobs.
