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
