Canada’s Express Entry system continues to move forward strongly in 2025, with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issuing thousands of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to qualified candidates.
In the latest development, 421 ITAs were issued on April 28, 2025 under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw. To qualify, candidates needed:
- A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 727
- A created Express Entry profile before 5:11 PM UTC on September 9, 2024
This draw marks the second round in April, following the earlier PNP-specific draw on April 14.
Express Entry Draw Results: January – April 2025
Here’s a snapshot of Express Entry activity so far this year:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | CRS Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 28 | Provincial Nominee Program | 421 | 727 |
| April 14 | Provincial Nominee Program | 825 | 764 |
| March 21 | French-language Proficiency | 7,500 | 379 |
| March 17 | Provincial Nominee Program | 536 | 736 |
| March 6 | French-language Proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
| March 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 725 | 667 |
| February 19 | French-language Proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
| February 17 | Provincial Nominee Program | 646 | 750 |
| February 5 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 521 |
| 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 |
As of now, 31,929 ITAs have been issued through Express Entry in 2025.
Emerging Trends: 2025 Focus Areas
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates have been the major focus so far in 2025.
- No new general draws or category-based draws (besides French-language proficiency) have been held yet.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates last received an opportunity in February, signaling delayed but upcoming chances for inland workers.
IRCC has emphasized that it will prioritize:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates
- Candidates under category-based draws, particularly those with French-language abilities
According to Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC aims to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents this year. A significant portion—232,150 immigrants—will come through the economic immigration streams, including Express Entry.
This prioritization shows a clear path for candidates who have strong Canadian work experience, French proficiency, or provincial nominations.
What This Means for Future Applicants
If you are targeting Express Entry this year:
- Boost your CRS score through French proficiency or provincial nomination pathways.
- Update your profile early, ensuring you meet any cut-off dates if specific draws are announced.
- Monitor IRCC updates carefully, as category-based draws for STEM workers, healthcare workers, and trades are expected later in 2025.
Now is the right time to be strategic, build a strong profile, and be ready for opportunities that IRCC will open in the coming months.
