Canada continues to adapt its immigration landscape with several important federal updates in May 2025. From the resumption of Canadian Experience Class draws to streamlined work permit processes, these changes signal new opportunities and adjustments for prospective immigrants. Here’s a detailed overview of the latest developments every applicant and consultant should know.
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry Draw Resumes
Date: May 13, 2025
Invitations to Apply (ITAs) Issued: 500
Minimum CRS Score: 547
After a pause since early February 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) resumed the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) specific Express Entry draw. This signals a renewed emphasis on candidates with Canadian work experience—a group considered essential for Canada’s skilled workforce needs.
This draw offers fresh hope to temporary workers and international graduates already in Canada aiming for permanent residency. Candidates must have a profile with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 547 to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
(Source: Economic Times, Immigration News Canada)
2. Appointment of New Immigration Minister
Date: May 13, 2025
New Minister: Lena Metlege Diab
Predecessor: Rachel Bendayan
Following the federal election on April 28, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney formed a Liberal minority government and appointed Lena Metlege Diab as the new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This leadership change may bring policy refinements and continued focus on strengthening Canada’s immigration system. Immigration professionals and applicants should stay updated on any upcoming directives under Minister Diab’s tenure.
(Source: Economic Times)
3. Streamlined Work Permit Process for International Experience Canada (IEC) Participants
Effective Date: May 6, 2025
IRCC introduced a significant process improvement for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants currently in Canada. Eligible participants can now apply to renew or obtain new work permits by mail without the previous requirement to leave and re-enter Canada. This change reduces travel costs, processing times, and logistical challenges for young foreign nationals participating in IEC programs.
(Source: Economic Times)
⏰ Processing Times Update as of May 6, 2025
Understanding current IRCC processing times helps applicants plan their applications better. Here’s the latest update on key immigration processes:
| Application Type | Processing Time (May 2025) | Previous Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship | ||
| – Grant of Citizenship | 10 months | 8 months |
| – Citizenship Certificate | 4 months | 3 months |
| Permanent Resident (PR) Cards | ||
| – New PR Card | 35 days | 19 days |
| – PR Card Renewal | 10 days | 10 days (unchanged) |
| Temporary Resident Visas | ||
| – Visitor Visa (Inside Canada) | 20 days | 17 days |
| – Visitor Visa Extension | 163 days | 140 days |
| Super Visa Processing Times | ||
| – India | 119 days | 127 days (improved) |
| – United States | 74 days | 94 days (improved) |
| – Nigeria | 68 days | 61 days (longer) |
| – Pakistan | 172 days | 138 days (longer) |
| – Philippines | 116 days | 3 days (significant increase) |
These variations reflect shifting workloads and changing priorities within IRCC. Applicants from countries like the Philippines should particularly note the increased processing time for Super Visa applications.
(Sources: Immigration News Canada, ICC Immigration Inc)
What This Means for Applicants and Consultants
- Applicants with Canadian work experience should prepare to take advantage of the resumed CEC draws. Ensure your Express Entry profile is updated and accurate.
- IEC participants in Canada can benefit from the new mail-in work permit process, avoiding costly travel and permit disruptions.
- Those applying for citizenship and visitor visas should anticipate longer processing times in some categories and plan accordingly.
- Consultants and immigration professionals must stay informed about ministerial changes and evolving policies to guide clients effectively.
Stay Updated and Plan Ahead
Canada’s immigration system is dynamic and responsive to economic needs. Keeping abreast of official government announcements and processing time updates is critical for smooth immigration pathways. For the most accurate and current information, always refer directly to IRCC’s official website.
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