In a promising start to the year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw of 2025, issuing 1,350 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence (PR). The draw, conducted on January 8, 2025, invited candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 542 to apply for permanent residence.
This CEC draw comes shortly after a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on January 7, where 471 candidates with a CRS score of 793 were invited. These two early draws signal an active beginning for the Express Entry system, following a quieter month of December 2024.
Summary of Recent Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
| January 8, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class | 1,350 | 542 |
| January 7, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program | 471 | 793 |
Trends and Patterns in Express Entry Draws
The IRCC has adapted its strategy in line with the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, prioritizing candidates already in Canada through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and enhanced Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). The department aims to address Canada’s labour market needs and demographic goals by prioritizing candidates with professional and language skills.
Throughout 2024, Express Entry draws largely focused on those already residing in Canada, and the trend is expected to continue in 2025, with a focus on sectors like healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency.
Express Entry: Canada’s Leading Immigration Pathway
Launched a decade ago, Express Entry is the system used to manage immigration for three key economic programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
In addition, candidates nominated through enhanced Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are eligible for expedited processing. The introduction of category-based selections in 2023 allows the IRCC to more selectively invite candidates based on skills or French language abilities, aligning with Canada’s economic priorities.
The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan underscores the Express Entry system’s vital role in meeting Canada’s immigration targets, with an expected 124,680 new immigrants in 2025.
How Express Entry Works for Canadian Immigration
Candidates must begin by submitting a profile through Express Entry, where they are evaluated for eligibility under one of the three economic programs. If chosen in a draw, candidates are issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and given 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. If successful, they will obtain Canadian PR status and can live, work, and settle in Canada.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Express Entry in 2025?
With a continued focus on skilled workers and those already in Canada, the Express Entry system remains the most significant immigration pathway to Canada. The IRCC is expected to continue issuing invitations based on evolving economic priorities, especially in healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency.
As the year unfolds, candidates are encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates in the Express Entry system to maximize their chances of receiving an ITA and securing permanent residence.
The Canada Time – Your source for the latest Canadian immigration news and updates.
