Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued over 23,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through multiple Express Entry draws in 2025. These draws targeted candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and French-language proficiency categories.
Key Details of the March 17th Draw
The latest draw, conducted on March 17, 2025, issued 536 ITAs to PNP candidates. To qualify, applicants needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 736 and must have created their Express Entry profile before 2:02 PM UTC on March 12, 2025.
- Target: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.
- Number of ITAs: 536.
- Minimum CRS Score: 736.
- Profile Deadline: Candidates needed to have created their Express Entry profile before 2:02 pm UTC on March 12, 2025.
This draw, the third in March alone, highlights the IRCC’s ongoing efforts to diversify its immigrant intake.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Also Read: Canada to Remove LMIA-Based Job Offer Points from Express Entry System
Growing Opportunities for Express Entry Candidates
Express Entry draws in 2025 have seen significant ITA allocations, with over 23,000 candidates invited across different categories. The largest draw so far was on February 19, where 6,500 French-speaking candidates received ITAs. Similarly, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on February 5 issued 4,000 ITAs with a CRS cut-off score of 521.
New Express Entry Priority Categories for 2025
On February 27, IRCC introduced new priority categories to address labour shortages and attract skilled professionals. The 2025 priority categories include:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare and social services occupations
- Trade occupations
- Education occupations
These categories highlight Canada’s commitment to welcoming skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy and workforce.
Understanding Express Entry
Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system for skilled workers. It manages applications for three key programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For candidates with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For skilled professionals with foreign work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For candidates with experience in skilled trades.
Applicants are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Those with the highest scores receive ITAs in regular draws.
PNP candidates often have higher CRS scores as provincial nominations grant them an additional 600 points, increasing their chances of selection.
Upcoming Changes to CRS Scoring
IRCC plans to remove additional CRS points for job offers under arranged employment by Spring 2025. This change may impact candidates relying on job offers to boost their scores.
What This Means for Applicants
With over 23,000 ITAs issued so far in 2025, Express Entry candidates have strong opportunities to secure Canadian permanent residency. Those targeting future draws should focus on improving their CRS scores through higher education, language proficiency, and gaining Canadian work experience.
For the latest updates on Express Entry draws, stay informed with IRCC announcements and prepare accordingly for upcoming selections.
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