Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued additional invitations to apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Express Entry pool.
On February 4, 2025, the department extended 455 ITAs through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw. Candidates who were invited needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 802 and had to submit their Express Entry profile before 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024.
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This draw is the fourth of the year, following two Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws and a PNP draw earlier this month.
So far, in 2025, IRCC has issued 6,276 ITAs through Express Entry.
Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Since July 2024, IRCC has focused on candidates qualifying for PNP, CEC, and category-based selection draws for ITAs. This aligns with Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, which outlines annual admissions for candidates in Canada, especially those with the necessary professional and language skills to meet the country’s economic and demographic objectives.
For 2025, Canada’s Express Entry system prioritizes the following categories:
- Healthcare
- Trades
- French-language proficiency
How Express Entry Works
Express Entry is an applicant management system that handles three of Canada’s main economic immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The system operates on a candidate-based approach. If newcomers meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three programs, they must first complete and submit a candidate profile. Candidates are scored based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), considering factors like skills, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria. The highest-scoring candidates have the best chance of receiving an ITA.
Once an ITA is issued, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence (PR), which requires additional documents like police clearance certificates and proof of funds. After submitting the PR application, candidates become applicants, and IRCC aims to process PR applications within six months. If approved, newcomers receive PR status and must land in Canada to finalize the process.
Express Entry Process – Step-by-Step Guide:
- Determine your eligibility: Make sure you meet the requirements of at least one of the three Express Entry programs.
- Complete language testing and gather documentation: Submit your Express Entry profile, including necessary documents like an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), if applicable.
- Submit your profile: Complete your profile on the IRCC website and receive a CRS score.
- Wait in the candidate pool: You’ll remain in the pool until IRCC holds a draw for which you’re eligible based on your CRS score and profile submission time.
- Receive an ITA and apply for PR: If invited, submit a complete electronic application for PR, including required documents, within 60 days. You may also need to submit medical exams and police certificates.
- Submit biometrics: If requested by IRCC, provide your biometrics.
- Wait for IRCC’s decision: Once approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), and if necessary, a permanent resident visa. After landing in Canada and signing your COPR, you officially become a permanent resident.
