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Category Archives: Express Entry

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September 30, 2025
September 30, 2025

Canada invites 291 candidates in latest Express Entry PNP draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the latest round of invitations under the Express Entry system on Monday, September 29, 2025. The draw, officially Express Entry Draw #369, was targeted specifically at candidates who had secured a Provincial Nomination.

Key Results of Draw #369

•Date of draw: September 29, 2025

•Draw type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)–specific

•Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 291

•Minimum CRS score required:855

•Tie-breaking rule: April 8, 2025

Only candidates who had already received a provincial nomination and whose Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score met or exceeded 855 were invited to apply.

Why the Cut-off is So High

The CRS cut-off of 855 is steep but expected in a PNP-specific draw. A provincial nomination alone adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score. This means the base CRS of invited candidates was around 255 or higher before the nomination boost.

For comparison:

•Recent trade occupation draws required CRS scores around 505.

•The recent education category draw had a cut-off of 462.

•A French-language draw earlier in September had a threshold as low as 446.

This makes PNP draws unique — they are small, highly selective, and aimed at candidates already endorsed by Canadian provinces.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 29 Provincial Nominee Program 291 855
September 18 Trade 1,250 505
September 17 Education 2,500 462
September 15 Provincial Nominee Program 228 746
September 4 French language proficiency 4,500 446
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

 

The Role of Provincial Nominations

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate immigration candidates who have skills and experience aligned with local labour market needs. Once nominated, candidates get a major CRS boost, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) when IRCC conducts a PNP-specific draw.

The 291 invitations in this round reflect both the provinces’ labour needs and IRCC’s ongoing effort to use category-based and targeted draws to address shortages across regions and industries.

What This Means for Candidates

1.PNP remains a golden ticket: If your CRS is not competitive in general or occupation-based draws, pursuing a provincial nomination remains one of the most effective ways to secure permanent residency.

2.Early submission is critical: The tie-break rule shows that timing matters — among candidates at the cut-off score, those who submitted earlier received priority.

3.Expect continued category focus: In 2025, IRCC has leaned heavily on targeted draws (PNP, trades, education, French, healthcare), reducing reliance on broad all-program rounds. Candidates should keep monitoring which categories align with their profile.

With Canada’s ongoing immigration targets set to remain high, IRCC is expected to continue alternating between category-based draws and PNP-specific draws to meet both national and provincial labour needs.

Candidates aiming for Canadian permanent residency are advised to:

•Explore provincial nomination opportunities actively.

•Keep CRS scores competitive by improving language results, education credentials, and Canadian work experience where possible.

•Stay updated on IRCC’s draw schedules and categories to anticipate upcoming opportunities

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

September 19, 2025
September 19, 2025

Canada invites 1,250 Skilled Trades Workers in latest Express Entry Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On September 18, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) ran a category-based Express Entry draw for trade occupations, issuing 1,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). The lowest-ranked candidate invited in that draw had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 505.

See below details of September 18 Express Entry draw

  • Date & type: IRCC held a trades-category Express Entry draw on September 18, 2025.

  • Number of ITAs: 1,250 candidates were invited

  • Minimum CRS score: The cut-off (lowest CRS score among invited candidates) was 505.

  • Tie-breaker timestamp: November 5, 2024

Who this draw targeted

IRCC’s trade draws are category-based selections that require candidates to have experience in one of a small set of eligible trade occupations. Candidates needed at least six months’ experience in an eligible trade to be considered.

See the full list of 25 trades-eligible occupations below:

Occupation 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

How this draw compares to past trade draws

This 505 cut-off is substantially higher than previous trade draws (previous trade cut-offs in 2023–2024 ranged mostly in the high-300s to mid-400s), which makes this round unusually selective for a trade-category draw. Various analysts point to the long gap since the last trades draw (October 2024) and a smaller number of ITAs compared with some past rounds as reasons the cut-off rose.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 17 Education 2,500 462
September 15 Provincial Nominee Program 228 746
September 4 French language proficiency 4,500 446
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

What this means for trade candidates

  • If you’re in the Express Entry pool and in a listed trade occupation: a CRS of ~505 or higher would have been needed to receive an ITA in this round; if your score is lower, consider improvements (language test upgrades, additional qualifying work experience, education, or a provincial nomination).

  • Tie-break preparedness: if your CRS equals a published cut-off, IRCC uses the profile submission date/time to decide who receives an ITA — updating your profile doesn’t change your original submission timestamp. Make sure you know the exact timestamp on your profile.

Practical next steps (if this affects you)

  1. Confirm your NOC/occupation matches one of the eligible trades listed for this draw

  2. If your CRS is close to 505, consider: retaking language tests, getting an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if not done, gaining additional verified work experience, or pursuing a provincial nomination.

  3. If you already received an ITA — submit a complete PR application within IRCC’s time limit and gather medicals, police checks, and supporting documents immediately.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

September 18, 2025
September 18, 2025

Canada holds Education Category Express Entry Draw on September 17, 2025

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On September 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the fifth Express Entry draw of the month, targeting candidates in the Education occupations category.

This latest draw highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to using category-based selection to address Canada’s critical labour market needs, particularly in education.

Key Details of the Draw

  • Date: September 17, 2025

  • Draw type: Education category (category-based selection)

  • Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 2,500

  • Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score: 462

  • Tie-breaking rule: July 9, 2025

This draw marks a significant increase in invitations compared to the previous education draw on May 1, 2025, which issued just 1,000 ITAs with a higher CRS cutoff of 479.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 17 Education 2,500 462
September 15 Provincial Nominee Program 228 746
September 4 French language proficiency 4,500 446
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

Eligible Occupations

Candidates invited under this category belong to specific education-related National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes, including:

  • NOC 41220 – Secondary school teachers

  • NOC 41221 – Elementary school and kindergarten teachers

  • NOC 43100 – Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants

  • NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators and assistants

  • NOC 42203 – Instructors of persons with disabilities

These roles have been prioritized due to persistent shortages in Canada’s education sector.

 See below CRS Score Distribution in the Express Entry Pool

The table below shows the distribution of candidates in the Express Entry pool as of September 14, 2025.

CRS Score Range Number of Candidates
601–1200 220
501–600 24,870
451–500 71,427
491–500 12,341
481–490 12,555
471–480 15,569
461–470 16,158
451–460 14,804
401–450 74,178
441–450 14,719
431–440 16,312
421–430 14,822
411–420 14,714
401–410 13,611
351–400 52,883
301–350 19,978
0–300 8,074
Total 251,630

What This Draw Means

The September 17 draw represents a bigger and more inclusive round than earlier education draws:

  • Lower cutoff score: At 462, the CRS requirement is 17 points lower than the May draw, opening the door to more candidates.

  • Increased invitations: More than double the number of ITAs were issued this time, showing a stronger demand for education professionals.

  • Category focus: This is part of IRCC’s broader trend of moving away from exclusively general draws and toward targeted category-based selection.

For eligible candidates in the education sector, this is a clear signal that opportunities are expanding.

What Applicants Should Do

  • Check your CRS score: If you are in one of the eligible NOCs and have a CRS of around 460 or higher, you may be competitive in future draws.

  • Submit early: The tie-breaking rule shows that the timing of profile submission matters. Candidates with the cutoff CRS of 462 needed to have submitted before July 9, 2025.

  • Boost your profile: For those under the cutoff, improving language scores, obtaining higher education credential assessments (ECAs), or pursuing provincial nominations can help.

  • Monitor draw trends: Category-based draws are becoming more frequent, and future rounds may continue to favour education professionals.

Conclusion

The September 17, 2025 Express Entry draw is a positive development for teachers, early childhood educators, and other education professionals seeking permanent residence in Canada. With a lower CRS threshold and more invitations than previous education draws, IRCC is clearly signaling the importance of this sector to Canada’s future.

Eligible candidates should take advantage of this opportunity by ensuring their profiles are up to date and competitive for the next rounds.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

September 16, 2025
September 16, 2025

Canada invites 228 PNP Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its latest round of invitations under the Express Entry system. The draw, held on September 15, 2025, was focused exclusively on candidates who had secured a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination.

See below key results of Express Entry Draw #366

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  • Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 228

  • Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required: 746

  • Tie-breaking rule: Applied to profiles submitted before March 31, 2025

The relatively small number of invitations and the high CRS threshold reflect the competitive nature of PNP-specific draws. Because a provincial nomination automatically provides an additional 600 CRS points, scores in these rounds are typically much higher than in other categories.

What This Draw Means for Applicants

  1. High CRS Cut-offs Continue
    With a required CRS of 746, only candidates with a nomination and strong underlying profiles were invited. This highlights the advantage of securing a PNP nomination, but also shows that competition remains intense.

  2. Smaller Pool of Invitations
    Just 228 invitations were issued in this round, significantly fewer than in recent general or category-based draws. This trend indicates IRCC’s ongoing focus on targeted immigration streams rather than large all-program draws.

  3. Timing Matters
    The tie-breaking rule shows the importance of submitting an Express Entry profile as early as possible. Even candidates with the same score may miss out if their profiles are entered after the cut-off date.

How This Compares to Previous Draws

Earlier this month, on September 2, 2025, a similar PNP-specific draw invited 249 candidates with a higher CRS cut-off of 772. By contrast, category-based draws for French-speaking candidates and certain occupations have seen much lower CRS thresholds, sometimes below 500.

This contrast underscores how CRS requirements fluctuate depending on the draw type. PNP candidates face consistently high cut-offs, while category-based draws open doors for skilled workers in targeted sectors.

See below summary of Express Draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 5 Provincial Nominee Program 228 746
September 4 French language proficiency 4,500 446
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

Looking Ahead

As 2025 progresses, IRCC appears to be prioritizing targeted draws over broad, all-program rounds. This aligns with Canada’s strategy to attract immigrants with specific skills, language abilities, or regional ties.

Applicants should pay close attention to:

  • Upcoming all-program draws, which remain less frequent this year.

  • Provincial nomination opportunities, since PNPs remain one of the most reliable ways to secure an invitation.

  • Category-based selection trends, particularly for healthcare workers, STEM professionals, and French speakers.

Conclusion

Canada’s latest Express Entry draw once again highlights the critical role of the Provincial Nominee Program in securing permanent residency. While competition is fierce and CRS cut-offs remain high, candidates who secure a nomination and submit their profiles early stand the best chance of success.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

September 8, 2025
September 8, 2025

Canada’s Latest Express Entry Update: September 2025 Draw and What It Means for Applicants

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Canada continues to use the Express Entry system as its primary tool for selecting skilled immigrants who can help strengthen the country’s economy. The program has been evolving in 2025 with an increased focus on targeted draws, and the most recent round of invitations highlights this ongoing shift.

The Latest Draw: Focus on French-Language Candidates

On September 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #365, which was category-based and specifically targeted applicants with strong French-language proficiency.

In this round, 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 446. This cut-off is relatively moderate compared to earlier draws this year, which suggests that candidates with advanced French skills continue to benefit from lower score thresholds.

See below details of September 4 Express Entry draw

Category: French Language Proficiency

Number of Invitation: 4,500

CRS Cutoff Score: 446

Tie-breaking rule: June 16, 2025

Express Entry Trends to Watch in 2025

This latest invitation round adds to an already active year for Express Entry. By mid-August 2025, the federal government had invited over 55,000 candidates across a mix of general, program-specific, and category-based draws.

A clear pattern is emerging: Canada is relying more heavily on targeted draws to meet specific labor market and demographic needs. For example, earlier in the year, healthcare professionals, STEM workers, and French-speaking applicants were frequently prioritized. Notably, the draws for French speakers have often been larger than other categories, reinforcing Canada’s goal of strengthening bilingualism and supporting Francophone communities outside Quebec.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025:

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

Looking Ahead: New Categories for 2026

While the 2025 draws are still ongoing, attention is already turning to the future. The government has announced plans to expand Express Entry with three new categories in 2026. These will cover:

  • Senior managers in leadership roles

  • Researchers and other STEM professionals

  • Military personnel

These additions underline Canada’s intention to not only fill immediate workforce gaps but also attract top talent in areas tied to leadership, innovation, and national capacity. Public consultations on these categories are open until September 2025, meaning the final design could still evolve.

Challenges for Applicants: Accuracy Matters

Alongside these opportunities, some applicants have faced challenges. Recently, there has been a noticeable rise in refusals or procedural fairness letters where candidates declared a spouse as “non-accompanying” despite the spouse already being in Canada. IRCC has been treating such cases cautiously, viewing them as potential misrepresentation. This development highlights the importance of full transparency in Express Entry applications. Even minor inaccuracies can lead to significant setbacks.

Why These Updates Matter

For skilled workers considering immigration to Canada, the key takeaways are clear:

  1. Category-based draws offer new pathways – French speakers and professionals in priority sectors may benefit from lower CRS thresholds.

  2. Upcoming categories will broaden opportunities – High-level professionals, STEM researchers, and military applicants should watch closely for the 2026 rollout.

  3. Accuracy is non-negotiable – Ensuring that every detail in the application is truthful and consistent can mean the difference between approval and refusal.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

September 4, 2025
September 4, 2025

Canada invites 1,000 candidates in New Canadian Experience Class Express Entry draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the latest round of invitations under the Express Entry system on September 3, 2025, specifically targeting candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

This was the first CEC-only draw of September and marked another step in Canada’s ongoing efforts to prioritize skilled workers already contributing to the Canadian labour market.

See below details of the September 3 Draw

  • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Date and time: September 3, 2025
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 534
  • Number of invitations issued: 1,000
  • Rank needed: 1,000 or above
  • Tie-breaking rule: August 14, 2025

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 3 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

Why the Canadian Experience Class Matters

The Canadian Experience Class is one of the three main programs under Express Entry. It is tailored for temporary foreign workers and international graduates who have obtained skilled work experience in Canada.

CEC candidates are often considered strong applicants because:

  • They have Canadian work experience and often strong English or French skills.

  • They are more likely to integrate quickly into the economy.

  • Many are already living and working in Canada on work or study permits.

This aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to prioritize immigration streams that directly address labour shortages and regional economic needs.

What to Expect

The September 3 draw follows closely on the heels of the September 2 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, in which 249 invitations were issued with a CRS cutoff of 772. Together, these two back-to-back draws demonstrate IRCC’s commitment to balancing both federal and provincial immigration priorities.

With immigration targets set to remain high in 2025 and beyond, candidates in the CEC stream should continue to see steady opportunities to secure permanent residency. If you are considering applying, you are encouraged to:

  • Keep your Express Entry profile up to date.

  • Maximize CRS points by improving language scores, education credential assessments, and work experience documentation.

  • Explore provincial nominee pathways for additional CRS points.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

September 3, 2025
September 3, 2025

Canada invites 249 for PR in first Express Entry Draw of September

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On September 2, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #363, targeting candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

The round issued 249 Invitations to Apply (ITAs), with the lowest-ranked candidate achieving a CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score of 772.

See below details of the September 2 Express Entry Draw

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Date and Time: September 2, 2025
  • Number of Invitations: 249
  • Minimum CRS Score: 772
  • Rank Required: 249 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: Applied to profiles submitted before August 28, 2025

See below summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
September 2 Provincial Nominee Program 249 772
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

IRCC continues to shift away from broad-based, all-program draws. Instead, the department has focused on PNP-specific, category-based, and occupation-targeted rounds.

See below latest CRS Score Distribution in the Express Entry Pool

As of September 1, 2025, there were 254,672 candidates in the Express Entry pool. The following outlines the distribution by CRS score range:

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 246
501-600 25,123
451-500 74,183
491-500 12,443
481-490 12,443
471-480 16,077
461-470 17,252
451-460 15,968
401-450 74,314
441-450 15,220
431-440 16,245
421-430 14,813
411-420 14,542
401-410 13,494
351-400 52,798
301-350 19,955
0-300 8,053
Total 254,672

Category-Based Draws in 2025

IRCC has also allocated clear quotas for certain categories in the second half of 2025. According to recent reports:

  • Education category: 3,000 ITAs planned (1,000 issued; 2,000 remaining)

  • Healthcare category: 8,000 planned (7,500 issued; 500 remaining)

  • Trades category: 3,300 planned (none issued yet)

This structured distribution ensures that immigration draws are strategically aligned with Canada’s workforce needs.

Francophone and CEC Contributions

Another highlight of 2025 has been the rise of Francophone draws. These rounds support Canada’s commitment to promoting French-speaking immigration outside Quebec.

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) also remains important, creating opportunities for skilled workers already in Canada. While fewer in number, CEC draws help temporary residents transition into permanent residency.

Implications for Candidates

The September 2 draw shows that PNP pathways remain highly competitive. With a cut-off CRS score of 772, candidates must continue to strengthen their profiles through higher language scores, more skilled work experience, or securing a provincial nomination.

Applicants are also advised to diversify their strategy. Category-based draws in healthcare, education, trades, or French language skills may provide better chances of receiving an ITA.

Finally, candidates should stay updated. IRCC has been sharing planned draw schedules with provinces, meaning opportunities are likely to follow a structured pattern in the months ahead.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

August 29, 2025
August 29, 2025

IRCC reveals 2025 Express Entry Draw Categories and Schedule

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially announced the schedule for Express Entry category-based draws in 2025, marking a major shift in the way candidates are selected for permanent residence. Unlike previous years, IRCC has not conducted any all-program draws in 2025, instead focusing exclusively on category-based selection to meet Canada’s evolving labour market needs.

Category Priorities for 2025

The 2025 draw schedule confirms that IRCC is prioritizing four main categories:

  1. French-language proficiency
  2. Healthcare and social services occupations
  3. Trades occupations
  4. Education occupation

The introduction of the education category is a notable change, highlighting Canada’s need for teachers, early childhood educators, and related professionals. At the same time, the transport category has been removed, while the healthcare and STEM categories were adjusted to better align with demand.

Highlights from 2025 Draws So Far

From January to late July 2025, IRCC conducted 27 draws, issuing a total of 50,628 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). The majority of these were category-based draws. French-language proficiency and healthcare categories led in terms of invitations, with the French draws issuing more than 18,000 ITAs and healthcare draws accounting for 5,000 ITAs.

The new education category saw its first draw on May 1, 2025, with 1,000 ITAs issued and a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score of 479. This represented a promising start for candidates in teaching and childcare roles.

Meanwhile, one of the year’s largest healthcare draws took place on July 22, 2025, when IRCC issued 4,000 ITAs at a CRS cut-off of 475. Another significant healthcare and social services draw occurred on August 19, 2025, with 2,500 ITAs and a CRS score of 470.

One of the lowest CRS thresholds so far was seen in a French-language proficiency draw on March 21, 2025, which issued 7,500 ITAs at a cut-off of just 379 points. This underscored IRCC’s strong commitment to attracting French-speaking candidates outside Quebec.

According to the schedule, the planned ITA distribution is as follows:

Category ITAs As per IRCC Memo ITAs Already Issued in 2025 Expected ITAs In Next Draws
Education Approximately 3,000 ITAs (5% of all FSW and CEC ITAs) 1,000 2,000
Healthcare Approximately 8,000 ITAs (15% of all FSW and CEC ITAs) 7,500 1,000-2,000
Trades Approximately 3,300 ITAs (8% of all FSW and CEC ITAs) 0 3,300
French-Proficiency 18,500 ITAs to meet the 8.5% Francophone admissions target 21,000 0

What This Means

The 2025 Express Entry draw schedule confirms IRCC’s strong reliance on targeted draws rather than general invitations. This approach gives a clear advantage to candidates in priority sectors, particularly French-speaking applicants and professionals in healthcare and education. The variation in CRS cut-offs from as low as 379 for French speakers to nearly 480 for education professionals shows how scores differ depending on category and occupation demand.

For prospective applicants, this means success in Express Entry this year is far less about competing in a broad pool and more about aligning with Canada’s high-demand categories. Candidates with language skills or occupations in education, healthcare, and trades stand a stronger chance of receiving an invitation in 2025.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

August 22, 2025
August 22, 2025

Canada now requires Medical Exam before Express Entry PR applications

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Canada has made an important change to its immigration process. If you’re applying for permanent residence through Express Entry, you now need to complete a medical exam before you even submit your application.

This update took effect on August 21, 2025, and it’s one of the most significant adjustments to the Express Entry system in recent years.

Key Change in the Application Process

Previously, the system was more relaxed. Applicants would receive instructions from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) after submitting their application, and only then would they schedule their medical exam.

Now, the process is flipped:

  • Before applying, every applicant and their family members (even those not coming to Canada right away) must complete an Immigration Medical Exam (IME) with an IRCC-approved doctor.
  • Applicants must upload proof of the medical exam as part of their Express Entry application.

Applications submitted before August 21, 2025 are not affected by this new rule.

Why Did IRCC Make This Change?

IRCC says the goal is to make the process faster and more predictable.

  • Less uncertainty: By checking medical admissibility early, applicants can avoid last-minute refusals after spending months in the system.
  • Efficiency: Having medical results upfront helps IRCC officers process applications more quickly.
  • Reduced backlogs: With exams completed ahead of time, fewer applications get delayed due to missing health checks.

In short, Canada wants to avoid situations where someone is approved in every other respect but then fails the medical exam at the very end.

How the Medical Exam Works

The IME is not something you can do with any family doctor. It must be completed by an IRCC-approved panel physician.

Here’s what to expect:

  1. Find a panel physician: IRCC has an online list of doctors worldwide who are authorized to conduct these exams.
  2. Bring your documents: Passport or government-issued ID, medical history, medication list, and any vaccination records.
  3. Tests included: A physical exam, chest X-ray, and blood and urine tests. Children may be exempt from some tests.
  4. Cost: Usually between CAD $140–280 per person, depending on the clinic and country.
  5. Result validity: Medical exam results are valid for 12 months.

The doctor will give you a document confirming you took the exam. You must upload this proof when submitting your Express Entry application.

Medical Exam Checklist for Express Entry Applicants

Here’s a simple guide to make sure you’re ready:

  1. Book Your Appointment Early

    • Use IRCC’s official list to find an approved panel physician near you.

  2. Prepare Your Documents

    • Passport or government-issued ID.

    • Medical records and list of current medications.

    • Vaccination history (if available).

    • Glasses or contact lenses (if you use them).

  3. During the Exam

    • Expect a physical exam, X-rays, and lab tests.

    • Children may have fewer tests.

  4. Pay the Fees

    • Costs are typically CAD $140–280 per person.

    • Paid directly to the doctor/clinic.

  5. Get Proof of Exam

    • The doctor provides an Information Sheet or eMedical document.

    • Keep it safe.

  6. Upload With Your Application

    • Attach the exam proof when you submit your PR application.

    • Without it, your application will be considered incomplete.

  7. Check Validity

    • Results last for 12 months.

    • If your application isn’t finalized before expiry, IRCC may ask you to redo the exam.

If you had an IME within the last five years in Canada, you may not need a new one. Provide your IME number and IRCC will confirm.

Things Applicants Should Keep in Mind

  • Timing is important: If your exam expires before IRCC makes a decision, you may be asked to take another one. Try to time it close to when you expect an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
  • Family members count too: Even if your spouse or child isn’t moving to Canada right now, they must also take the medical exam.
  • Some exemptions exist: If you already completed an IME in Canada within the past five years, you may be able to reuse it by providing your IME number.
  • Access to doctors: In some countries, IRCC panel physicians are limited, which can create waiting times and extra travel costs. Applicants should plan early.

Quick Comparison

When You Applied Do You Need Upfront Medical? Process
Before Aug 21, 2025 No You’ll be instructed later by IRCC
On/After Aug 21, 2025 Yes Must include proof when submitting your PR application

This new requirement means that medical exams are no longer something to worry about at the end of the process, they are now a first step.

For applicants, this change could feel like more work upfront, but in the long run it should make things faster, clearer, and more reliable. By doing the medical exam early, you’ll know right away if you’re medically admissible to Canada and avoid wasting time or money on an application that could be refused later.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Canada targets Healthcare and Social Services in latest Express Entry draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On August 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a special Express Entry draw specifically targeting professionals within healthcare and social services occupations.

In this category-based round, 2,500 candidates were issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence in Canada. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 470.

See below details of August 19, 2025 draw

  • Date and time: August 19, 2025
  • Category: 37 Healthcare and Social Services Occupations (Version 2)
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 470
  • Number of invitations issued: 2,500
  • Rank needed: 2,500 or above
  • Tie-breaking rule: April 23, 2025

See below summary of Express Entry draws so far in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
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

 

See below CRS Score distribution in the pool

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 188
501-600 22,930
451-500 75,011
491-500 12,409
481-490 12,349
471-480 17,035
461-470 17,339
451-460 15,879
401-450 73,920
441-450 15,116
431-440 16,222
421-430 14,639
411-420 14,488
401-410 13,455
351-400 53,461
301-350 20,424
0-300 8,179
Total 254,113

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

  • The CRS threshold of 470 on August 19 suggests strong opportunities for candidates in healthcare and social services, even with moderate CRS scores.

  • It shows IRCC’s continued commitment to fast-tracking essential workers into communities across Canada.

  • Regular category-based draws help lower-scoring yet skilled applicants stay competitive, which may not be possible in broader draws focused only on top-ranked candidates.

 

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

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