IRCC Issues Second Express Entry Draw for PNP Candidates in 2025

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has continued to issue invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency through its Express Entry system, with the second Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw of the year.

In the latest round of invitations, 455 ITAs were issued to candidates who meet the PNP eligibility criteria. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 802, and candidates needed to have submitted their profiles before 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024.

This draw marks the fourth Express Entry draw of the year, following two Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws and another PNP draw earlier in January.

Total ITAs Issued in 2025 So Far: As of today, IRCC has issued 6,276 ITAs through the Express Entry system in 2025.

Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025:

DateDraw TypeNumber of ITAsCRS Cut-off Score
February 4Provincial Nominee Program455802
January 23Canadian Experience Class4,000527
January 8Canadian Experience Class1,350542
January 7Provincial Nominee Program471793

Focus on PNP and Priority Categories

Since July 2024, IRCC has been focusing more heavily on candidates qualifying for the PNP, CEC, and category-based selection draws. This shift aligns with Canada’s 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, which emphasizes admissions for those in specific economic categories to meet the country’s labor market and demographic needs.

Priority categories for 2025 include:

  • Healthcare professionals
  • Skilled tradespeople
  • French-language speakers

This approach underscores Canada’s focus on addressing key workforce shortages and supporting economic growth.

How Express Entry Works

Express Entry is the primary immigration management system for three of Canada’s most prominent economic immigration programs:

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Candidates eligible for any of these programs must first submit an Express Entry profile, where they are scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS assigns a score based on factors such as:

  • Age
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Language skills
  • Adaptability

The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws conducted by IRCC.

Once invited to apply, candidates must submit a complete application for permanent residency, including necessary documents like:

  • Police clearance certificates
  • Proof of funds
  • Medical exams (if required)

IRCC processes the permanent residency application within six months.

Express Entry Process in 6 Simple Steps

  1. Check Eligibility: Determine which Express Entry program you qualify for.
  2. Prepare Documents: Complete language tests and, if necessary, get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
  3. Submit Profile: Create and submit your profile to the Express Entry pool, including all required information.
  4. Wait for Draws: Based on your CRS score, wait until you are selected in a draw.
  5. Receive ITA: If selected, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
  6. Submit Application: Within 60 days of receiving the ITA, submit a complete application for permanent residency.

What’s Next for Express Entry Candidates?

For those who have received an ITA, the next steps involve submitting a complete application for permanent residency, followed by biometrics submission (if required). IRCC will process the application, and if successful, candidates will receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

Once the COPR is signed, the candidate can complete their landing process in Canada and officially become a permanent resident.

The Future of Express Entry and Canada’s Immigration Strategy

With an increasing focus on skilled workers in healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency, Express Entry will continue to play a pivotal role in meeting Canada’s immigration and economic goals. As IRCC holds more targeted draws, candidates who meet the current criteria for high-demand occupations stand the best chance of receiving invitations and securing permanent residency in Canada.

For those looking to stay updated on future draws, it’s crucial to keep track of the latest Express Entry announcements and continue to enhance your CRS score through language proficiency, additional work experience, or further education.

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!

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