10Jan

IRCC invites more candidates for Canada PR through Express Entry
Updated on: 16/03/2026

IRCC Invites More Candidates for PR through Express Entry

IRCC Invites More Candidates for PR through Express Entry!

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted two Express Entry draws this week, issuing invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence (PR) to qualified candidates.

January 2025 Express Entry Draw Details

January 8, 2025: IRCC invited 1,350 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 542.
January 7, 2025: A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw issued 471 ITAs to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 793.

Date

Draw Type

Number of ITAs

Cut-off CRS Score

January 8

Canadian Experience Class

1,350

542

January 7

Provincial Nominee Program

471

793


Trends in Express Entry Draws

In December 2024, IRCC issued fewer ITAs (2,561) compared to earlier months, with a reduced number of draws. However, in October and November, over 5,000 ITAs were issued across six draws.
This year’s initial draws suggest a continued focus on specific categories and programs, prioritizing economic needs and demographic strategies.
Focus Areas in 2024

IRCC prioritized candidates from these categories:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Enhanced PNPs (Express Entry-aligned)
French-language proficiency

IRCC’s Focus 

Under the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC aims to:

1.     In-Canada Focus : Prioritize candidates already in Canada, especially through the CEC and PNP programs.

2.     Federal Economic Priorities: Emphasize applicants supporting Canada’s labor market and demographic goals via category-based selections.

Priority Categories 

  • Healthcare occupations
  • Trades occupations
  • French-language proficiency

While these categories are emphasized, other draws will continue unless specified by IRCC.

Overview of Express Entry

Established in 2015, Express Entry manages applications for three economic immigration programs:
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
It also accommodates enhanced nominations from PNPs, enabling provinces to select candidates through the system.
In 2023, IRCC introduced category-based selections, allowing targeted invitations for candidates with specific professional skills or French proficiency. In 2025, Express Entry will remain Canada’s largest immigration pathway, with a target of welcoming 124,680 newcomers this year.

How Express Entry Works

  1. Candidate Profile Submission: Eligible candidates create a profile scored under the CRS.
  2. Invitation to Apply (ITA): High-ranking candidates are selected in draws and receive ITAs.
  3. PR Application Submission: Candidates have 60 days to submit a complete PR application.
  4. Landing in Canada: Successful applicants gain PR status and can live, work, and settle in Canada indefinitely.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Q.1 How does Canada Express Entry work?
Canada's Express Entry works in 4 simple steps: 1. Create a profile and receive a CRS score 2. Get invited (ITA) through regular draws. 3. Submit your PR application within 60 days. 4. Land in Canada and receive permanent residence. Express Entry manages three programs - CEC, FSWP, and FSTP - and targets 124,680 newcomers in 2025.

Q.2  What is a good CRS score for Express Entry 2025?
Based on recent draws, a CRS score of 542+ is competitive for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), while Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates need 793+. Aiming for 500+ improves your chances in most Express Entry draws.

Q.3  How many Express Entry draws happen in a month?

IRCC conducts multiple draws monthly. In October–November 2024, 6 draws issued 5,000+ ITAs, while December saw fewer draws with 2,561 ITAs issued. Early 2025 draws show a continued focus on category-based selections.

Q.4 Can I apply for Canada PR without a job offer through Express Entry?

Yes! Express Entry candidates do not need a job offer to apply. However, a valid job offer can add 50–200 CRS points, significantly boosting your ranking and chances of receiving an ITA.

Q.5 What is the minimum CRS score for Express Entry 2025?

The minimum CRS cut-off varies by draw type: 1. Canadian Experience Class: 542 (January 2025). 2. Provincial Nominee Program: 793 (January 2025). Scores fluctuate each draw, so regularly checking IRCC updates is recommended.





Online calculator icon
Online calculator icon