Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently issued additional invitations to apply (ITAs) for candidates in the Express Entry pool. A total of 455 ITAs were granted in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw.
To qualify, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 802 and must have submitted an Express Entry profile by 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024.
This marks the fourth draw of the year, following two Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws and a PNP draw earlier in January.
So far in 2025, IRCC has extended 6,276 ITAs through the Express Entry system.
Since July 2024, IRCC has focused on inviting candidates who qualify for the PNP, CEC, and category-based selection draws. This aligns with IRCC’s Immigration Levels Plan, which prioritizes newcomers who can contribute to Canada’s economy and demographic needs, especially those with specific professional and language skills, via the federal immigration system.
In 2025, the priority categories for Express Entry are: Healthcare, Trades and French-language proficiency.
Latest Draw Details
- Draw Date: February 4, 2025
- Draw Type: Provincial Nominee Program
- Number of Invitations: 455
- Minimum CRS Score Required: 802
Express Entry Draws List
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS |
| 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 |
Overview of Express Entry
Express Entry is a system that manages three of Canada’s main economic immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Newcomers eligible for one of these programs must submit a profile to be entered into the Express Entry pool. They are then assigned a CRS score based on factors like skills, work experience, and language abilities. Candidates with higher CRS scores have a better chance of receiving an ITA.
Once an ITA is issued, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence (PR) application, including additional documents like police clearance certificates and proof of funds, depending on the individual’s circumstances. After the PR application is submitted, IRCC aims to process it within six months. If successful, applicants can receive PR status and must land in Canada to finalize the process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry:
1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the minimum criteria for one of the three Express Entry programs.
2. Prepare Documents: Complete your language testing and gather required documents, such as an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), if necessary. Check if you qualify for any Express Entry categories based on your experience or language ability.
3. Submit Profile: Submit your profile to the IRCC website and receive a CRS score.
4. Wait for a Draw: Wait in the candidate pool for a draw based on your CRS score and profile creation time. You may also be eligible for a category-based draw.
5. Receive ITA: If you are invited, submit a complete PR application with all necessary documents and fees within 60 days. This may include medical exams and/or police certificates.
6. Provide Biometrics: If requested by IRCC, submit your biometrics.
7. Final Decision: Wait for IRCC’s decision. If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and possibly a permanent resident visa. Once you land in Canada and sign the COPR, you will become a permanent resident.
