Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has invited more candidates to apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
In the latest round, 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates under the Healthcare and Social Services occupation category.
To qualify for this draw, candidates needed:
- A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 470, and
- An Express Entry profile created before April 23, 2025, at 8:08 p.m. (UTC).
This marks the fifth draw of the month and the second one this week. Since May 2025, IRCC has been conducting one draw per month specifically for Healthcare and Social Services occupations. Before that, no draws were held in this category this year, showing a clear shift toward prioritizing professionals in these fields.
Details of the August 19, 2025, Express Entry Draw
The key details for the latest draw are:
Tie-breaking Rule: April 23, 2025, at 20:08:53 UTC
Program: Healthcare and social services occupations (Version 2)
Date & Time: August 19, 2025
CRS Score (Lowest Ranked Candidate): 470
Total Invitations Issued: 2,500
This category-based selection comes after three other draws earlier this month: a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on August 18, a French language proficiency draw on August 8, and a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on August 7.
So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 55,820 ITAs through Express Entry.
Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025
What Happens After Receiving an ITA?
After receiving an ITA, candidates must submit a complete application within 60 days, including required documents like police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
Key Steps to Complete the Process:
- Submit Full Application: Provide all necessary documentation within the 60-day timeframe.
- Processing Time: Applications are typically processed within six months, but delays may happen if documentation is incomplete.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Requirements: If nominated by a province, ensure that you meet specific provincial criteria, such as working in a designated occupation.
- Prepare for Life in Canada: Begin researching housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities to ensure a smooth transition once your application is approved.
What is the Express Entry System?
The Express Entry system is Canada’s main immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. Launched in 2015, it manages applications for three key economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For professionals with foreign work experience.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For those with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For skilled tradespeople.
Conclusion:
The latest draw highlights Canada’s growing focus on healthcare and social services professionals, reflecting the country’s ongoing need for skilled workers in these essential sectors. With over 55,000 ITAs already issued this year, Express Entry continues to be a key pathway for candidates aiming to build their future in Canada.
