Canada Invites 4,500 Candidates for Permanent Residency in Latest Express Entry Draw
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence under the Express Entry system. This marks a significant shift in immigration policies, with lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores making it easier for skilled professionals to move to Canada.
If you’re considering applying, this guide will walk you through the latest trends, eligibility criteria, and actionable tips to boost your CRS score and maximize your chances of securing permanent residency in Canada.
What is Canada Express Entry?
The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary immigration pathway for skilled workers. It manages applications for three federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Candidates enter the Express Entry pool, where they receive a CRS score based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Periodically, the IRCC conducts draws and issues ITAs to candidates with the highest scores.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Express Entry Draws
CRS Score Trends and ITA Distribution
| Draw Date | Program | Number of ITAs | CRS Score Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 4 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 471 | 793 |
| January 8 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 1,350 | 542 |
| January 23 | CEC | 4,000 | 527 |
| February 4 | PNP | 455 | 802 |
| February 12 | PNP | 646 | 750 |
| February 19 | French Language Proficiency | 6,500 | 426 |
| March 3 | PNP | 725 | 667 |
| March 6 | French Language Proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
The data shows that French-speaking applicants and those in the education, healthcare, and trade sectors now have a higher chance of receiving an ITA due to category-based selections.
Why Was the CRS Score Lowered?
A major reason behind the low CRS cut-off of 410 in the recent draw is the IRCC’s push to bring in more French-speaking immigrants. This means that even if your CRS score is below 450, you still have a strong chance of being selected if you can demonstrate French proficiency.
Key Takeaway: If you don’t speak French yet, consider learning it to boost your CRS score significantly.
How to Increase Your CRS Score in 2025
- Improve Your Language Score
- Achieve a high IELTS or CELPIP score.
- Learn French to gain additional CRS points.
- Get a Provincial Nomination (PNP)
- A PNP nomination automatically adds 600 CRS points, guaranteeing an ITA.
- Check out Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs.
- Enhance Your Education Credentials
- Complete a higher degree or obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify foreign education.
- Gain More Work Experience
- More work experience in a skilled occupation can increase your CRS score.
- Apply Under In-Demand Occupations
- Canada has added education, healthcare, trades, and social services to priority occupations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum CRS score required to get an ITA?
The latest draw shows that candidates with a CRS as low as 410 received an ITA under category-based selection.
2. How can I improve my CRS score quickly?
- Learn French
- Get a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Gain more work experience
3. Is Express Entry the best way to immigrate to Canada?
Yes, Express Entry is one of the fastest and most efficient pathways to Canadian permanent residency.
4. What happens after I receive an ITA?
After receiving an ITA, you must submit your documents within 60 days for processing by IRCC.
5. How long does Express Entry processing take?
On average, Express Entry applications are processed within six months.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s 2025 Express Entry system presents exciting opportunities for skilled workers, especially those proficient in French or working in education, healthcare, social services, or trades.
If you haven’t yet created an Express Entry profile, now is the time to do so. Stay updated on new category-based draws, work on improving your CRS score, and increase your chances of immigrating to Canada successfully!
For the latest updates on Express Entry and immigration news, visit the official IRCC website.
