In another major development in Canada's immigration landscape, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted the second Express Entry draw of the week, issuing 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The latest draw, held on February 5, required candidates to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 521 and an active Express Entry profile submitted before 2:52:14 AM UTC on November 14, 2024.

Express Entry: A Busy Start to 2025

This draw follows closely after the February 4 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, where 455 candidates secured ITAs. With two consecutive draws, IRCC continues its strong push to meet its immigration targets for 2025. The first month of the year saw a total of 5,821 ITAs issued to candidates under the CEC and PNP programs, indicating a focused approach toward priority immigration streams.

Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS Score
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

Patterns Emerging in Express Entry Draws

IRCC’s latest draws suggest that the focus in 2025 will be on specific priority categories. As per the Immigration Levels Plan 2025, a significant share of invitations is expected to be issued to candidates in the following groups:

  1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates
  2. Category-based selection candidates, particularly in healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency

These categories align with Canada’s economic and demographic needs, aiming to bring in skilled workers who can contribute to the labor market immediately.

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Understanding Express Entry vs. PNP

Canada operates both federal and provincial immigration programs. While Express Entry is a federal system managing three major economic immigration streams, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces to select candidates based on regional workforce needs.

Express Entry Manages the Following Programs:

  1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For candidates with work experience in Canada
  2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For skilled workers with foreign experience
  3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For trade workers with relevant qualifications

How PNP Works:

PNPs operate separately from Express Entry but can be linked to it. These programs allow provinces to nominate individuals who meet their local labor requirements.

  1. Base PNPs:

    2. Candidates apply directly to a province and receive a nomination, which they can use to apply for permanent residence.

  2. Enhanced PNPs:

    3. These are aligned with Express Entry, allowing candidates to gain 600 additional CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an ITA in the next draw.

How to Apply for Express Entry

If you're considering applying through Express Entry, follow these steps:

  1. Check Your Eligibility:

    2. Determine if you qualify for any of the three Express Entry programs.

  2. Complete Language Tests & ECA:

    3. Get your language proficiency test results and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

  3. Submit an Express Entry Profile:

    4. Provide details about your skills, work experience, and qualifications.

  4. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA):

    5. If you meet the CRS cut-off, you'll receive an ITA in a future draw.

  5. Submit Your PR Application:

    6. Once invited, submit your complete application along with the required documents.

  6. Complete Biometrics & Medical Exam:

    7. Provide fingerprints and undergo a medical exam if required.

  7. Await IRCC’s Decision:

    8. If approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can plan your move to Canada.

Find out the minimum IELTS score required for Canada PR, band requirements, and how to improve your chances of immigration success.

Why Choose Visa Solutions 4u?

Navigating Canada’s immigration process can be complex, but Visa Solutions 4u simplifies it for you. Here's how we help: 

  1. Personalized Consultation:

    2. Get expert advice on the best immigration pathway.

  2. Profile Assessment:

    3. Ensure your Express Entry profile is optimized to meet CRS requirements.

  3. Document Preparation & Submission:

    4. Avoid delays with error-free submissions.

  4. Post-ITA Assistance:

    5. Guidance on submitting a complete PR application.

  5. Provincial Nomination Support:

    6. Maximize your chances by applying to the right PNP streams.

With Visa Solutions 4u, your journey to Canadian permanent residence becomes seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to kickstart your dream of living in Canada!