On July 7, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the first Express Entry draw of the month, issuing 356 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.
This was a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-specific draw, and candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750 to receive an invitation.
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This result aligned with our July 2, 2025 prediction regarding CRS trends and invitation numbers.
The CRS cut-off increased by 8 points compared to the last PNP draw held on June 23, 2025, largely due to the reduced number of invitations issued.
Express Entry Draw Details – July 7, 2025
- Program Category: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Date and Time: July 7, 2025
- Number of ITAs Issued: 356
- Minimum CRS Score Required: 750
- Tie-Breaking Rule: March 19, 2025, at 04:09:09 UTC
- Ranking: Candidates ranked 356 or higher were invited
This draw was highly competitive, with the tie-breaker favoring those who submitted their profiles before March 19, 2025.
To date, IRCC has issued 42,201 ITAs in 2025, reinforcing Canada’s ongoing commitment to skilled immigration through Express Entry.
CRS Score Distribution as of July 6, 2025
As of the day before the draw, there were 256,224 candidates in the Express Entry pool. Notably, only 358 had scores above 600, highlighting the exclusivity of PNP-specific draws.
| CRS Score Range | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|
| 601–1200 | 358 |
| 501–600 | 22,591 |
| 451–500 | 77,550 |
| 401–450 | 72,608 |
| 351–400 | 53,697 |
| 301–350 | 21,135 |
| 0–300 | 8,285 |
| Total | 256,224 |
Most candidates fall within the 451–500 range, indicating growing competition, particularly for non-PNP draws.
IRCC Draw Trends in 2025
So far this year, IRCC has held:
- 12 PNP draws
- 6 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws
- 3 French-language proficiency draws
- Multiple targeted draws for healthcare, STEM, and education sectors
These patterns align with Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, emphasizing in-demand professions and Francophone immigration.
Upcoming CEC Draw Expected This Week
Based on recent trends, a CEC draw is expected on July 8 or 9, 2025. The last CEC round on June 26 issued 3,000 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 521, a 26-point drop from May 13.
If similar numbers are invited this week, the next cut-off could be around 515.
This would be welcome news for in-Canada candidates with Canadian work experience, a key focus of IRCC this year.
What Express Entry Candidates Should Do Now
- Update Your Profile: Ensure all documents and details are current, especially proof of funds (due July 28, 2025).
- Improve CRS Score: Consider retaking language tests, gaining work experience, or pursuing education in Canada.
- Explore PNP Options: A provincial nomination adds 600 points—often crucial for lower-scoring candidates.
- Seek Guidance: A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) can offer tailored strategies for improving your chances.
FAQs
What was the latest Express Entry draw?
On July 7, 2025, IRCC invited 356 PNP candidates with a minimum CRS of 750. The tie-breaking date was March 19, 2025, at 04:09:09 UTC.
Is a CRS score of 490 good?
A score of 490 is competitive, especially for CEC draws, though it falls short for PNP draws, which often exceed 700. You’re in a strong position for upcoming general or CEC draws.
Can I get PR with a 400 CRS score?
It’s challenging, but not impossible. Focus on PNP nominations (worth 600 points) or improving your profile via language tests, work experience, or education.
Is 510 a strong CRS score?
Yes. For CEC draws, 510 is within reach of recent cut-offs. The June 26 draw had a threshold of 521, so a draw this week may see a score around 510–515.
Final Thoughts
The latest draw confirms Canada’s ongoing preference for skilled workers with provincial nominations. If you’re in the pool, stay proactive, monitor draw trends, and improve your profile where possible. With continued draws expected this month, opportunities remain strong for qualified candidates.
