Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued another round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Express Entry pool. In its latest
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued another round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Express Entry pool. In its latest draw, the department invited 455 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 802 and had to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024, to be eligible for an invitation.
This draw marks the fourth Express Entry draw of 2025, following two Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws and a PNP draw earlier in the year. So far, IRCC has issued a total of 6,276 ITAs through the Express Entry system in 2025.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 4 | Provincial Nominee Program | 455 | 802 |
| January 23 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 527 |
| January 8 | Canadian Experience Class | 1,350 | 542 |
| January 7 | Provincial Nominee Program | 471 | 793 |
IRCC’s Focus on PNP, CEC, and Category-Based Draws
Since July 2024, IRCC has prioritized candidates eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and category-based selection draws. This aligns with the department’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, which emphasizes admitting candidates who can contribute to Canada’s economic and demographic goals.
In 2025, the priority categories under Express Entry are:
Healthcare;
Trades; and
French-language proficiency.
These categories reflect Canada’s ongoing efforts to address labor shortages in critical sectors and promote bilingualism.
How Does Express Entry Work?
Express Entry is Canada’s application management system for three of its largest economic immigration programs:
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC);
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP); and
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
The system operates on a candidate-applicant model. Eligible individuals first submit an Express Entry profile and enter the candidate pool. Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
Candidates with the highest CRS scores are most likely to receive an ITA. Once invited, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence (PR), including supporting documents such as police clearance certificates and proof of funds.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Express Entry Process
Determine Eligibility: Check if you meet the minimum requirements for one of the three Express Entry-managed programs.
Complete Language Testing and Gather Documents: Take an approved language test (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French) and obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if required.
Submit Your Profile: Create and submit your Express Entry profile on the IRCC website to receive a CRS score.
Wait for a Draw: Remain in the candidate pool until IRCC holds a draw that matches your CRS score and profile submission date.
Receive an ITA: If invited, submit a complete PR application within 60 days, including all required documents and fees.
Provide Biometrics: Complete biometrics if requested by IRCC.
Await Final Decision: If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if applicable, a permanent resident visa. Once you land in Canada and sign your COPR, you officially become a permanent resident.
Why This Matters
The latest PNP draw highlights IRCC’s commitment to addressing labor market needs through targeted immigration pathways. For candidates with strong CRS scores and provincial nominations, these draws represent a significant opportunity to secure permanent residence in Canada.
For those considering immigration to Canada, staying informed about Express Entry trends and eligibility requirements is crucial. At NewSteps Immigration Consultants in Surrey, BC, we specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of the immigration process. Whether you’re exploring Express Entry, PNP, or other pathways, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.