Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued additional invitations to apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system.
In its most recent draw, IRCC issued 646 ITAs to candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
To qualify, candidates needed to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750 and had to create an Express Entry profile by 5:41 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on July 23, 2024.
This draw marks the third of February and follows previous PNP and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws. On February 4, IRCC invited 455 candidates through the PNP, and on February 5, it issued 4,000 ITAs for CEC candidates.
Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration
Since the beginning of 2025, IRCC has focused its Express Entry draws primarily on PNP and CEC candidates. The size of CEC draws has returned to the larger numbers seen in 2024. Notably, the exclusion of category-based draws for French speakers, healthcare workers, and tradespeople is significant, as these groups were designated as priority categories by IRCC for the Express Entry system in 2025. Additionally, IRCC has set a target of 41,700 permanent resident landings for this group in 2025 under the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Is It Worth Entering the Express Entry Pool with a Low CRS Score?
If you have a low CRS score, it might be tempting to avoid entering the Express Entry pool. However, it’s usually still a good idea to submit your profile if you are eligible, as being in the pool can increase your chances of receiving an ITA for several reasons:
- CRS scores can fluctuate: What seems like a low score today may be sufficient for an ITA in the future. If you’re not in the pool, you won’t benefit from these changes.
- Tie-breaking rule: Candidates must create an Express Entry profile before the specified date and time in the ministerial instructions, known as the tie-breaking rule. Those who miss this deadline won’t be considered for that specific draw, so entering the pool early improves your chances of being invited.
- CRS scores can improve over time: You can raise your CRS score while in the pool by improving your language skills, gaining additional work experience, or achieving higher education credentials. Your CRS score will automatically update once you submit the necessary documentation, without needing to submit a new profile.
- Multiple immigration pathways: While in the Express Entry pool, you can apply for and be considered under other immigration programs, such as enhanced PNP streams and regional pilot programs. Candidates who are eligible for multiple pathways can increase their chances of receiving an ITA by building eligibility in two separate programs.
Entering the Express Entry pool, even with a low CRS score, keeps your options open and enhances your chances for future success.
