Canada Express Entry 2025: IRCC Memo Reveals Upcoming Draw Schedule

A newly surfaced internal memo from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revealed important details about the 2025 Express Entry draw schedule. This roadmap provides clarity for skilled workers, provinces, and stakeholders on how Canada aims to meet its immigration goals for 2025–2027.

Key Highlights from the IRCC Memo

• Support for 2025–2027 Immigration Plan
  • Express Entry draws in the latter part of 2025 will contribute to 2026 admission targets, since processing usually takes several months.
  • A three-month schedule will be shared with provinces, including draw weeks, draw types, and expected CRS cut-offs.
• Strong Focus on Francophone Immigration
  • IRCC aims for 8.5% Francophone admissions in 2025 and 9.5% in 2026.
  • Over 18,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) have been allocated to French-speaking candidates.
  • French speakers receive up to 50 extra CRS points, making them highly competitive.
• Category-Based Selection (CBS) Priorities
  • Healthcare: ~8,000 ITAs (majority already issued).
  • Trades: ~3,300 ITAs planned, expected in upcoming draws with high CRS cut-offs (470+).
  • Education: ~3,000 ITAs, with 2,000 still expected.
  • French Proficiency: 18,500 ITAs planned (target already met).
• In-Canada Focus
  • Priority for candidates already in Canada under Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) remain a strong pathway, adding 600 CRS points.
• Transparency with Provinces
  • Provinces will receive advance notice of upcoming draws, helping them align nomination streams.
  • CRS score projections will be shared, though subject to change based on demand and applications.
• What This Means for Applicants
  • Ensure your Express Entry profile is active and updated.
  • Maximize CRS scores with language tests, education assessments, and Canadian work experience.
  • Explore PNP nominations to increase chances.
  • Francophone candidates have a clear advantage and should consider TEF/TCF Canada tests.
    

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