Express Entry Archives - Page 2 of 18 - Ese Umoh Immigration

March 5, 2025

Canada Express Entry 2025: Comprehensive List of Eligible Occupations

Dear future neighbour,

Canada’s Express Entry system helps skilled workers from around the world immigrate to Canada. In 2025, Express Entry continues to offer a fast and efficient way to apply for permanent residency through three main programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.

Candidates are selected based on a points system that considers factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply during regular draws.

From healthcare and STEM to trades, agriculture, and the newly added category: education, the updated categories focuses on filling labor shortages. Express Entry continues to prioritize applicants with skills in demand, making it a key tool for Canada to attract top talent and meet its economic needs.

See Below Comprehensive List of Occupations Qualified for 2025 Targeted Express Entry Draws

Occupation	2021 NOC Code
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians	32104
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists	31112
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists	32123
Chiropractors	31201
Dental hygienists and dental therapists	32111
Dentists	31110
Dieticians and nutritionists	31121
General practitioners and family physicians	31102
Licensed practical nurses	32101
Massage therapists	32201
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations	33101
Medical laboratory technologists	32120
Medical radiation technologists	32121
Medical sonographers	32122
Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates	33102
Nurse practitioners	31302
Nursing coordinators and supervisors	31300
Occupational therapists	31203
Optometrists	31111
Other medical technologists and technicians	32129
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating	31209
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment	32109
Paramedical occupations	32102
Pharmacists	31120
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants	33103
Pharmacy technicians	32124
Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health professionals	31303
Physiotherapists	31202
Psychologists	31200
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses	31301
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists	32103
Social and community service workers	42201
Social workers	41300
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine	31100
Specialists in surgery	31101
Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies	41301
Veterinarians	31103

2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category

Occupation	2021 NOC Code
Architecture and science managers	20011
Civil engineering technologists and technicians	22300
Civil engineers	21300
Cybersecurity specialists	21220
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians	22310
Electrical and electronics engineers	21310
Geological engineers	21331
Industrial and manufacturing engineers	21321
Insurance agents and brokers	63100
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians	22301
Mechanical engineers	21301

3. Trade Category

Occupation	2021 NOC Code
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services	82021
Floor covering installers	73113
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)	73112
Roofers and shinglers	73110
Concrete finishers	73100
Other technical trades and related occupations	72999
Water well drillers	72501
Electrical mechanics	72422
Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics	72402
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics	72401
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics	72400
Bricklayers	72320
Cabinetmakers	72311
Carpenters	72310
Gas fitters	72302
Plumbers	72300
Industrial electricians	72201
Electricians (except industrial and power system)	72200
Welders and related machine operators	72106
Sheet metal workers	72102
Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors	72100
Home building and renovation managers	70011
Construction managers	70010
Cooks	63200
Construction estimators	22303

4. Agriculture and Agri-Food Category

Occupation	2021 NOC Code
Butchers – retail and wholesale	63201

5. Education Category

Occupation	2021 NOC Code
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants	43100
Instructors of persons with disabilities	42203
Early childhood educators and assistants	42202
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers	41221
Secondary school teachers	41220

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

March 4, 2025

Canada Invites 725 Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On March 3, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw inviting 725 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to apply for permanent residency.

Details of the Latest Express Entry Draw

Draw Category: Provincial Nominee Program

Draw Date: March 3, 2025

Number of Invitations: 725

CRS cut-off score: 667

Tie-breaking rule: June 5, 2024

This draw aligns with IRCC’s recent focus on PNP candidates, following similar draws on February 4 (455 invitations with a CRS cut-off of 802) and February 17 (646 invitations with a CRS cut-off of 750).

Since early 2025, IRCC has alternated between PNP and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, with CEC draws returning to larger sizes.

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date	Draw Type	Number of ITAs	Cut-off CRS score
March 3	Provincial Nominee Program	725	667
February 19	French language proficiency	6,500	428
February 17	Provincial Nominee Program	646	750
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

If you want to increase your chances of being invited in future draws, make sure your profile is up-to-date and be ready for the next opportunity! Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 28, 2025

Canada Updates Express Entry Draw Categories for 2025

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On February 27, 2025, IRCC announced significant changes to its Express Entry system, aiming to better align immigration policies with labor market demands and economic priorities.

See below major highlights of the changes made to 2025 Express Entry:

The new category announced in 2025 is Education.
Transport is no longer listed under the category-based draws.
IRCC has added a number of social services occupations to the healthcare category.
IRCC has identified four key priority categories for Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in 2025 which include:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare and social service occupations
- Trades occupations
- Education occupations

Complete Overview of Express Entry Draw Categories for 2025

The 2025 updates involve more than just the addition or removal of categories. IRCC has refined the occupation lists in each category to better match Canada’s workforce demands. See below a detailed breakdown of the changes, showing recently included and removed occupations.

The healthcare sector continues to be a key focus of Canada’s immigration strategy, driven by an aging population and the increasing need for medical and social support services.

See below 8 Occupations Added:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians	32104	2
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists	32123	2
Dental hygienists and dental therapists	32111	2
Other medical technologists and technicians	32129	2
Pharmacists	31120	1
Pharmacy technicians	32124	2
Social and community service workers	42201	2
Social workers	41300	1

6 Occupations Removed:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Educational counsellors	41320	1
Instructors of persons with disabilities	42203	2
Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment	31204	1
Other assisting occupations in support of health services	33109	3
Other practitioners of natural healing	32209	2
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists	32200	2

2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations

STEM has experienced a notable decrease, with no new occupations added and a substantial 19 removed.

See below 19 Occupations removed:

Occupations Removed (19)

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Architects	21200	1
Business systems specialists	21221	1
Computer and information systems managers	20012	0
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)	21311	1
Computer systems developers and programmers	21230	1
Data scientists	21211	1
Database analysts and data administrators	21223	1
Engineering managers	20010	0
Information systems specialists	21222	1
Land surveyors	21203	1
Landscape Architects	21201	1
Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries	21210	1
Metallurgical and materials engineers	21322	1
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants, and program officers	41400	1
Software developers and programmers	21232	1
Software engineers and designers	21231	1
Urban and land use planners	21202	1
Web designers	21233	1
Web developers and programmers	21234	1

3. Trades Occupations

Trades have undergone a major expansion, with 19 new occupations added to meet the growing demands of construction and infrastructure.

See below 19 Occupations added:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services	82021	2
Floor covering installers	73113	3
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)	73112	3
Roofers and shinglers	73110	3
Concrete finishers	73100	3
Other technical trades and related occupations	72999	2
Water well drillers	72501	2
Electrical mechanics	72422	2
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics	72401	2
Bricklayers	72320	2
Cabinetmakers	72311	2
Gas fitters	72302	2
Industrial electricians	72201	2
Sheet metal workers	72102	2
Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors	72100	2
Home building and renovation managers	70011	0
Construction managers	70010	0
Cooks	63200	3
Construction estimators	22303	2

4 Occupations removed:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Residential and commercial installers and servicers	73200	3
Elevator constructors and mechanics	72406	2
Machine fitters	72405	2
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers, and servicers	72014	2

4. Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations

A small expansion, featuring the addition of two new roles and removal of none.

2 Occupations added:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticulture services	82031	2
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors	82030	2

5. Education Occupations (New Category)

The standout update for 2025 is the introduction of the Education category, which focuses on professionals who are shaping the future. This new category opens up opportunities for educators and other education-related professionals to apply for immigration, recognizing their crucial role in Canada’s growth.

This update is beneficial as it highlights the importance of education in Canada’s development, providing a clear path for skilled educators to contribute to the country’s workforce. By prioritizing this sector, Canada ensures that the next generation has access to high-quality education and support.

5 Occupations Added

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants	43100	3
Instructors of persons with disabilities	42203	2
Early childhood educators and assistants	42202	2
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers	41221	1
Secondary school teachers	41220	1

Express Entry categories are determined based on Canada’s labor market needs and immigration priorities. The government evaluates various factors such as the demand for specific occupations, the country’s economic growth, and demographic trends. Categories are updated periodically to align with these needs, ensuring that skilled professionals fill critical roles in Canada’s workforce.

This system helps ensure that the right individuals are selected to contribute to the Canadian economy, while also supporting the country’s social and economic development. Regular adjustments to these categories allow for flexibility in responding to emerging trends and challenges.

Do you require assistance with crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com.

February 20, 2025

Canada Invites 6,500 Candidates in First Category-Based Draw of 2025

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On February 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first category-based Express Entry draw of the year, inviting 6,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence. This special draw focused on French speakers, highlighting Canada’s ongoing effort to attract bilingual talent and strengthen its multicultural and bilingual identity.

Details of the Draw:

Number of Invitations: 6,500
Category: French Language Proficiency
Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 428
Draw Date: February 19, 2025
Tie Breaking Rule: February 10, 2025

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date	Draw Type	Number of ITAs	Cut-off CRS score
February 19	French language proficiency	6,500	428
February 17	Provincial Nominee Program	646	750
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

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

If you received an invitation in this draw, you are now one step closer to getting permanent residency in Canada! You have 60 days to submit your application, making sure you include all the right documents and information.

Why French?

This draw was special because it focused on candidates who speak French. Canada values people who are bilingual (speak both French and English), especially in areas like Quebec, where French is the main language. By encouraging people who speak French to apply, Canada hopes to strengthen its bilingual communities and workforce.

What’s Next?

This draw was just the beginning! IRCC will continue to hold similar draws in the future, sometimes focusing on other skills or professions that are in demand. If you want to increase your chances of being invited in future draws, make sure your profile is up-to-date and be ready for the next opportunity! Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

February 18, 2025

Canada Issues 646 Invitations to PNP Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On February 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its latest Express Entry draw, focusing on candidates from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A total of 646 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750.

Key Details of the February 17, 2025, PNP Draw:

Number of ITAs Issued: 646
Minimum CRS Score: 750
Program Specified: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Tie-breaking Rule: July 23, 2024

This draw marks the 336th round of invitations under the Express Entry system.

Recent Trends in Express Entry Draws:

The February 17 draw continues the trend observed in earlier 2025 draws, with a focus on candidates from the PNP. For instance, the previous draw on February 4, 2025, also targeted PNP candidates, issuing 455 ITAs to those with a minimum CRS score of 802.

In contrast, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws have seen a decrease in the minimum CRS scores. The February 5, 2025, CEC draw issued 4,000 ITAs to candidates with a minimum CRS score of 521.

Implications for Prospective Applicants:

The higher CRS score requirements in PNP draws suggest that candidates with provincial nominations are highly competitive in the Express Entry pool. Prospective applicants aiming to boost their chances of being invited should consider getting a provincial nomination, as it significantly increases their CRS score.

February 6, 2025

Canada Issues 4,000 ITAs in Latest CEC Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On February 5, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw, inviting 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency in a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw.

Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class
Date: February 5, 2025
Total ITAs Issued: 4,000
Minimum CRS Score: 521
Tie-breaking Rule: November 14, 2024

See below details 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

To enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in future draws, consider the following strategies:

Improve Language Proficiency: Achieving higher scores in language tests like IELTS or CELPIP can significantly boost your CRS score.
Gain Additional Work Experience: Accumulating more skilled work experience, especially within Canada, can add valuable points to your profile.
Pursue Further Education: Obtaining higher educational qualifications or securing an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for existing credentials can enhance your CRS score.
Secure a Provincial Nomination: Being nominated by a Canadian province or territory can provide an additional 600 CRS points, substantially increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.

See below latest CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as at February 5, 2025

CRS score range	Number of candidates
601-1200	173
501-600	23,165
451-500	68,910
491-500	13,487
481-490	13,003
471-480	15,652
461-470	13,815
451-460	12,953
401-450	63,508
441-450	12,567
431-440	13,621
421-430	12,432
411-420	12,833
401-410	12,055
351-400	51,079
301-350	21,576
0-300	5,641
Total	234,052

February 5, 2025

Canada Invites 455 Candidates in the Latest Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On February 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw, inviting 455 candidates to apply for permanent residency.

Draw Type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Date: February 4, 2025
Total ITAs Issued: 455
Minimum CRS Score: 802
Tie-breaking Rule: December 7, 2024

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date	Draw Type	Number of ITAs	Cut-off CRS score
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

Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry

Checking Eligibility – You should first determine whether you meet the requirements for one of the three Express Entry programs.
Preparing Documents – Essential paperwork, such as language test results and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), must be gathered.
Submitting Profile – An Express Entry profile needs to be created, after which a CRS score will be assigned.
Entering the Pool – Candidates will remain in the pool while waiting for a draw where their CRS score reaches the required cut-off.
Receiving an ITA – If selected, a complete application for permanent residence must be submitted.
Providing Biometrics – If requested, biometric information will need to be provided.
Awaiting the Final Decision – IRCC will assess the application, and those who are approved will be granted a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

The Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Trades Program
The Canadian Experience Class.

Regular draws are held to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency, with specific draws targeting PNP nominees, CEC candidates, and individuals with proficiency in the French language.

Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency. Those not selected in this draw are encouraged to improve their CRS scores through enhanced language proficiency, additional educational credentials, or obtaining a provincial nomination to increase their chances in future draws.

As Canada continues to prioritize the attraction of skilled immigrants to support its economic growth and address labor market needs, the Express Entry system remains a vital pathway for individuals seeking to establish themselves in the country.

January 29, 2025

Ontario Updates Express Entry Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker Streams for Self-Employed Physicians

By EUIC Admin Express Entry, News

Dear future neighbour,

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has introduced amendments to its Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams, allowing self-employed physicians to use their work experience to meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

These changes align with recent federal policy updates, making it easier for self-employed physicians to qualify for permanent residency in Canada.

Eligibility for Self-Employed Physicians

Under the new amendments, applicants can count periods of self-employment towards the work experience requirement if their experience falls under one of the following National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes:

•NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine

•NOC 31101 – Specialists in surgery

•NOC 31102 – General practitioners and family physicians

This change is particularly significant as self-employed work experience was traditionally not considered under the Express Entry system. Now, eligible physicians can benefit from these adjustments when applying to Ontario’s Express Entry streams.

Choosing a Federal Program for Assessment

Applicants to the HCP and FSSW streams must choose one of two federal programs to be assessed against:

1.Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

2.Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The key change applies to applicants selecting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC): they can now use self-employment experience to meet the required work experience criteria if their occupation falls under one of the designated NOC codes listed above.

Restrictions on Other NOC Codes

These amendments do not apply to applicants with self-employment experience in occupations outside NOC 31100, NOC 31101, and NOC 31102. Other professions must continue to meet standard employment requirements under the existing OINP and federal Express Entry criteria.

Alignment with Federal Policy

These changes reflect recent federal updates that recognize the challenges self-employed physicians face when applying for permanent residency. In April 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a policy allowing self-employed physicians in publicly funded healthcare systems to count their experience towards Express Entry eligibility.

By implementing these amendments, Ontario aims to attract and retain more physicians, addressing labor shortages in the healthcare system while ensuring a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for qualified medical professionals.

Do you require assistance with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit or work permit application? Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com to get started today.

January 24, 2025

Canada invites 4,000 Candidates in New CEC Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a targeted Express Entry draw for candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). In this draw, IRCC invited 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score was 527. Candidates who received an invitation can now submit their applications for permanent residence within the 60-day deadline.

See below details of the latest Express Entry Draw:

Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Number of Invitations Issued: 4,000
Rank Required to Be Invited: 4,000 or above
CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 527
Date and Time of Round: January 23, 2025
Tie-Breaking Rule: July 23, 2024

The Canadian Experience Class is a popular pathway for international workers and graduates in Canada to transition to permanent residency. It targets candidates who have gained skilled work experience within Canada and possess a strong understanding of Canadian society and the labor market.

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as of January 23, 2025

CRS score range	Number of candidates
601-1200	200
501-600	24,001
451-500	67,548
491-500	13,126
481-490	12,866
471-480	15,392
461-470	13,483
451-460	12,681
401-450	62,426
441-450	12,256
431-440	13,389
421-430	12,205
411-420	12,667
401-410	11,909
351-400	51,213
301-350	21,903
0-300	5,633
Total	232,924

This draw comes as part of Canada’s broader immigration goals, which include welcoming 500,000 new permanent residents by 2025, with a significant focus on economic immigration.

See below comparison to earlier CEC Draws

Number	Date	Program	Invitations Issued	CRS Cutoff
332	January 8, 2025	Canadian Experience Class	1,350	542
326	November 19	Canadian Experience Class	400	539
323	November 13	Canadian Experience Class	400	547
320	October 22	Canadian Experience Class	400	539
317	October 9	Canadian Experience Class	500	539
315	September 19	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	509
312	August 27	Canadian Experience Class	3,300	507
309	August 14	Canadian Experience Class	3,200	509

For candidates aspiring to secure an invitation under future draws, maintaining a competitive CRS score remains crucial. Additional points can be gained through language proficiency, Canadian education, and provincial nominations.

Do you need help with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit application, work permit application,? Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com to get started today.

January 9, 2025

Canada’s First CEC Express Entry Draw of 2025: 1,350 PR Invitations Issued

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

In a significant move to strengthen Canada’s labor force and immigration system, the country conducted its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw of 2025 on January 8, inviting 1,350 candidates to apply for permanent residency (PR).

A Positive Start to 2025

The first CEC draw of 2025 marks a promising start to Canada’s immigration year, with 1,350 candidates receiving Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. These invitations were sent to applicants who met the eligibility requirements for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a category within the Express Entry system tailored for individuals who already have work experience in Canada.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was set at 542 points. This score reflects a combination of factors such as age, education, work experience, and proficiency in English or French.

See below details of the First CEC Express Entry Draw of 2025

Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Number of invitations issued: 1,350
Rank required to be invited to apply: 1,350 or above
Date and time of round: January 8, 2025
CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 542
Tie-breaking rule: December 7, 2024

Canadian Experience Class: A Key Immigration Pathway

The Canadian Experience Class is one of the three main programs managed under the Express Entry system, alongside the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. The CEC is designed for individuals who have already worked in Canada for a certain period, often in skilled positions. To be eligible for this program, candidates must have at least 12 months of full-time, skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years, as well as meet other requirements such as language proficiency.

CEC applicants often have an advantage when applying for permanent residency due to their familiarity with Canadian culture, workplaces, and systems. This makes them well-positioned to integrate into the country’s labor market and contribute to Canada’s economy.

2025 Immigration Plan

The January 8 CEC draw comes as part of Canada’s broader immigration objectives, set in its 2025 Immigration Levels Plan. With a goal of welcoming over 465,000 new permanent residents in 2025, the country is looking to fill critical labor gaps, especially in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades.

The Canadian government has emphasized its commitment to attracting skilled workers through programs like the Express Entry system, which offers a streamlined pathway for high-demand candidates. By targeting workers with Canadian experience, the country is building on its existing pool of talent to support national economic development.

CRS Score Trends in 2025

CRS score range	Number of candidates
601-1200	171
501-600	23,240
451-500	65,699
491-500	12,811
481-490	12,492
471-480	14,965
461-470	13,034
451-460	12,397
401-450	60,704
441-450	11,938
431-440	13,030
421-430	11,901
411-420	12,224
401-410	11,611
351-400	50,607
301-350	21,788
0-300	5,554
Total	227,763

The CRS score cut-off of 542 points for this CEC-specific draw represents a moderate level compared to previous years, signaling that Canada remains focused on inviting individuals with solid work experience and language skills. Historically, CRS scores have fluctuated based on the number of invitations issued and the specific program draws. However, many experts suggest that these scores are likely to remain relatively high as Canada continues to prioritize skilled workers in a competitive global job market.

Candidates with higher CRS scores have always had a better chance of receiving an ITA, though there are still opportunities for those with lower scores, especially if they have strong provincial nominations or Canadian job offers, which can significantly boost their score.

Looking Ahead

Canada is expected to continue conducting regular Express Entry draws throughout 2025, with further invitations expected for both CEC and other immigration streams. The 2025 immigration plan is part of a larger effort to enhance Canada’s global competitiveness and ensure sustainable economic growth.

Candidates who received ITAs in this latest CEC draw now have 60 days to submit their complete application for permanent residency. Those who did not receive an invitation are encouraged to stay updated on future draws and consider improving their CRS score through measures such as gaining more work experience, improving language proficiency, or securing a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Conclusion

Canada’s first CEC Express Entry draw of 2025 signals the country’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled workers with Canadian experience. With 1,350 invitations issued and a CRS score of 542, this draw offers an exciting opportunity for those already contributing to the Canadian workforce. As the year progresses, candidates should continue to monitor developments and plan accordingly for upcoming draws. The country’s dynamic immigration policies promise to create new avenues for skilled professionals and contribute to Canada’s long-term prosperity.

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

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Category Archives: Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

See Below Comprehensive List of Occupations Qualified for 2025 Targeted Express Entry Draws

Dear future neighbour,

Details of the Latest Express Entry Draw

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Dear future neighbour,

See below major highlights of the changes made to 2025 Express Entry:

Complete Overview of Express Entry Draw Categories for 2025

1. Healthcare and Social Services Occupations

2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Occupations

3. Trades Occupations

4. Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations

5. Education Occupations (New Category)

Dear future neighbour,

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Key Details of the February 17, 2025, PNP Draw:

Recent Trends in Express Entry Draws:

Implications for Prospective Applicants:

Dear future neighbour,

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

To enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in future draws, consider the following strategies:

See below latest CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as at February 5, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Eligibility for Self-Employed Physicians

Choosing a Federal Program for Assessment

Restrictions on Other NOC Codes

Alignment with Federal Policy

Dear future neighbour,

See below details of the latest Express Entry Draw:

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as of January 23, 2025

See below comparison to earlier CEC Draws

Dear future neighbour,

A Positive Start to 2025

See below details of the First CEC Express Entry Draw of 2025

Canadian Experience Class: A Key Immigration Pathway

2025 Immigration Plan

CRS Score Trends in 2025

Looking Ahead

Conclusion