Alberta has received a major boost to its immigration capacity for 2025. The federal government has granted the province an additional 1,528 nominations under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), raising the total allocation to 6,403.
The move comes as Alberta faces pressing demand for skilled workers across healthcare, technology, and agriculture. Previously, the province’s cap was 4,875 nominations, with nearly 3,750 already issued by early September. The increase represents a 31% jump, giving Alberta more flexibility to meet labour market needs and ease pressure on popular program streams.
Provincial officials welcomed the expansion, noting that Alberta’s economic growth depends on attracting and retaining skilled talent. The additional spaces are expected to create new opportunities for both workers and employers across the province.
Key Takeaways from Alberta’s Nomination Boost
Total 2025 allocation raised to 6,403 nominations (up from 4,875).
Additional 1,528 spaces granted by IRCC — a 31% increase.
3,749 nominations already issued as of September 11.
More opportunities for skilled workers in high-demand sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and tech.
Greater chances of selection in AAIP streams such as the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Rural Renewal, and Express Entry pathways.
Stream-by-stream breakdowns coming soon from the Alberta government.
Signals stronger federal-provincial cooperation to meet labour shortages.
For applicants, this means a greater chance of nomination through AAIP streams. While competition remains strong, the larger cap could translate into more draws and potentially lower selection thresholds for eligible candidates.
The province has not yet released details on how the new nominations will be divided among its streams, but updates are expected soon. In the meantime, prospective applicants are encouraged to keep profiles active and ensure they meet Alberta’s program priorities.
This expanded allocation underscores a broader trend: federal and provincial governments are adapting immigration pathways to respond quickly to economic needs. For Alberta, the increased nomination spaces are not just about numbers; they’re about securing the right skills to sustain growth and strengthen communities.
If you’re considering applying through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, our team can guide you through every step — from eligibility checks to application success — so you don’t miss out on these new opportunities. Schedule a consultation or contact us at: info@eseumohimmigration.com
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
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.
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.
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.
Alberta is stepping up its search for skilled workers this September, between September 2 and September 10, the province held seven separate draws sending out 1,376 invitations in just one week through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. The province focused on key areas like healthcare, farming, construction, and aviation showing a clear push to bring in people who can help fill jobs that are urgently needed across the province.
See below breakdown by Sector, Score, and Invitations
Draw date
Stream
Number of invitations issued
Cut-off score
September 10, 2025
Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (Aviation)
30
50
September 9, 2025
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Health Care)
70
64
September 8, 2025
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Construction)
121
61
September 5, 2025
Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (Agriculture)
71
48
September 4, 2025
Alberta Opportunity Stream
891
56
September 3, 2025
Dedicated Health Care Pathway (non-Express Entry)
67
44
September 2, 2025
Dedicated Health Care Pathway (Express Entry)
126
49
What This Means for Workers and Applicants
Focus on high-demand jobs Alberta is making it clear that it needs workers in certain industries especially healthcare. This creates strong opportunities for people with training and experience in those areas.
Lower score requirements Some of the draws had relatively low score cut-offs, meaning applicants didn’t need very high ranking points to receive an invitation. This is good news for those who may not score high in the federal system but still have skills Alberta needs.
Opportunities for current residents The large draw through the Alberta Opportunity Stream shows the province also wants to keep workers who are already contributing to its economy.
Why Alberta Is Doing This
Alberta continues to face worker shortages in many essential industries. By inviting candidates through targeted draws, the province is making sure newcomers have the right skills to fill gaps quickly. With a nomination from Alberta, successful applicants can move closer to permanent residency in Canada, offering both stability for families and growth for the province’s workforce.
As of September 11, Alberta has released the following figures for these streams:
Stream
2025 nomination allocation
Nominations issued thus far
Nominations still to be issued (2025)
Number of EOIs in the candidate pool
Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors
405
348
57
4,619
Dedicated Health Care Pathways (Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
500
353
147
1,633
Alberta Opportunity Stream
2,592
2,016
579
41,848
The AAIP has not broken down its nomination numbers by specific priority sectors within the Alberta Express Entry Stream. Likewise, the province has not separated figures for the Dedicated Healthcare Pathway, instead combining nominations for both Express Entry and non-Express Entry candidates. Detailed data for these individual streams has not been made available.
For 2025, Alberta’s total AAIP nomination allocation stands at 4,875. By September 11, the province had already used 3,749 spaces, leaving 1,126 nominations still available for the remainder of the year. At the same time, Alberta reported that 1,768 applications were waiting to be processed, showing continued high demand for provincial nominations.
Need help with your Canadian immigration process?
The recent draws show Alberta’s proactive approach to immigration: Whether you are in healthcare, farming, construction, aviation, or already working in Alberta, now may be an excellent time to explore opportunities through the AAIP.
Do you need assistance with 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.
On September 12, 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador held a large selection round under its provincial immigration programs issuing 353 invitations. The draw focused on two main streams:
Program
Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued
NLPNP (Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program)
218
AIP (Atlantic Immigration Program)
135
This marks one of the bigger draws this year, especially notable for the larger-than-usual number of AIP invitations.
To put this into perspective:
Earlier draws tended to issue fewer AIP invitations. For example, on August 29, the province issued 77 AIP invites.
The NLPNP has been more steady, with many earlier draws issuing 200–350 NLPNP invitations.
The total number of invitations issued so far in 2025 (up to and including this September 12 draw) stands at:
2,018 via NLPNP
586 via AIP
Also of note: Newfoundland & Labrador’s total nomination allocation was increased this year. It has more spaces than previously negotiated, an adjustment that allows for more invitations to be issued.
Why this matters
There are several implications and insights from this draw:
Greater emphasis on employer-driven immigration: The spike in AIP invitations suggests Newfoundland and Labrador is responding to more immediate labour market needs. Since the AIP requires a job offer and is more directly linked to employer demand, issuing more AIP invites is a signal that employers’ hiring needs are strong.
Balancing longer-term planning with urgent needs: NLPNP draws tend to be more about matching broader economic goals (skills, sectors, long-term labour shortages), while AIP can react more quickly to specific employer demands. The mixed draw suggests the province is trying to balance both.
More opportunities for candidates: For people interested in immigrating under either stream, this draw increases chances. Especially for those with a job offer, the AIP route may now be more accessible. Likewise, EOI (Expression of Interest) candidates for NLPNP will want to align their profiles with the priority sectors.
What applicants should know & prepare
If you’re considering applying, or have already expressed interest, here are some take-aways:
Ensure you have a complete EOI profile under NLPNP: since February 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador uses an Expression of Interest (EOI) system.
If applying under AIP, you generally need a job offer from a designated employer. Also, you may need a settlement plan, language and education/work experience requirements.
Watch what occupations/sectors are in demand. The province’s labour market priorities are dynamic. Having skills in sectors like healthcare, ICT, aquaculture, etc., may help.
Monitor draw-timing and size: draws seem fairly regular and growing in size, especially for AIP. Knowing when draws happen and the scale gives you insight into how competitive things may be.
Priority Sectors / Occupations in NLPNP
As of the most recent draws, NLPNP is emphasising certain sectors that are high-priority for the province.
The key priority sectors are:
Healthcare
Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
Aquaculture
Some of the specific in-demand occupations listed under these sectors include (but are not limited to)
In Healthcare: physicians (various specialities), nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, personal care attendants, psychologists, radiation therapists, etc.
In Aquaculture / Fisheries: facility technicians, cage site technicians, site managers, feeding/farming managers, etc.
In Tech: software developers, web developers, infrastructure engineers, UI/UX developers, Python developers, etc.
These lists may change over time with the labour market. Before applying, you should check the current priority occupations on the NL government website.
Eligibility Criteria for NLPNP
Here are the general eligibility requirements for the NLPNP, and then some of the specific stream-by-stream criteria.
General Requirements
Age: Applicants are usually required to be between 21 and 59 years old.
Expression of Interest (EOI) system: You must submit an EOI and wait for an invitation to apply (ITA).
Language proficiency: Usually in English or French, demonstrated via a recognized test. Specific CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) levels vary by stream and job/occupation.
Job offer: Most streams require a full-time job offer from an eligible NL employer; permanent or long-term. Some streams—like Priority Skills NL—may have more flexibility depending on whether the occupation is in demand.
Education / Credentials: Post-secondary or trade credentials or equivalent for many skilled jobs; credential assessments may be required if foreign credentials.
Work experience: Relevant work experience in the occupation, sometimes minimum number of years.
Settlement funds: Enough money to settle you and dependents in Newfoundland & Labrador.
Stream-Specific Requirements
Below are some of the criteria by NLPNP stream.
Stream
Key Additional / Specific Requirements
Express Entry Skilled Worker
Must have an active Express Entry profile at federal level. Job offer in NL in a skilled occupation. Meet the NLPNP points grid (e.g. ~67/100) in many cases. Credentials, work experience, language proficiency etc.
Skilled Worker Category
Full-time, permanent job offer required. Must have necessary qualifications, training or licences for the job. Relevant job experience. Language minimums.
International Graduate Category
Graduated from a recognized post-secondary institution; usually must hold a Post-Graduation Work Permit; job offer from eligible employer; often must have completed full-time studies and meet work experience / credential requirements.
Priority Skills NL
For candidates in high-demand occupations (healthcare, tech, aquaculture, etc.). Requirements include 1 year of work experience in such occupations, or a recent advanced degree (e.g. master’s or PhD) from Memorial University (within recent years). Minimum CLB level (generally CLB 5) or higher. Must score sufficiently in the EOI questionnaire.
Entrepreneur / International Entrepreneur / Graduate Entrepreneur
Higher financial / investment requirements; business plan; ownership stake; past business experience; create jobs locally; age limits; language; intention to settle and run business.
Eligibility Criteria for AIP (Atlantic Immigration Program) in NL
The AIP requirements are federal + provincial in nature. Here are the relevant criteria:
A valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces (NL included). The employer must be “designated” under the AIP.
The job offer must correspond to a National Occupational Classification (NOC) / TEER category that is acceptable under AIP (usually TEER 0-5 depending on the subcategory).
Education: Must meet the educational level required for the job offer. If foreign credentials are used, they must be assessed/validated.
Language ability: Must meet minimum language levels (in English or French) depending on the job’s TEER classification. Tests need to be from designated testing institutions, valid, etc.
Work experience: Usually you need a certain number of hours (for example ~1,560 hours in the last 5 years) unless you are exempt (e.g. international graduate).
Settlement plan: You must have a plan (and sometimes proof) of how you and your family will settle in the province. This includes things like housing, finances, etc. NL requires an endorsed settlement plan.
Proof of funds: Enough money to support yourself and dependents until you are established.
Conclusion
The September 12 draw was significant in Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2025 immigration landscape. The number of invitations, especially via the Atlantic Immigration Program, is among the highest this year. For prospective immigrants, this is a positive sign of growing opportunities, particularly for those with employer support. The province appears to be flexibly using both NLPNP and AIP to meet both strategic and immediate economic needs.
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.
On August 29, 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador conducted its most recent round of invitations under the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). A total of 202 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with 125 allocated through the NLPNP and 77 through the AIP.
This draw followed a trend of regular selection rounds held roughly twice a month, though the number of invitations in August marked a slight decrease compared to earlier in the summer. For example, the August 13 draw saw 231 invitations, while the May 29 round peaked at 405.
In February 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador introduced a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for immigration. With this system, candidates create an online profile that highlights their education, work experience, language skills, and willingness to live in the province. The government then selects candidates who match local job needs and invites them to apply through the Immigration Accelerator portal. This change makes the process faster and more focused on filling urgent labor shortages, especially in areas like healthcare and technology.
Earlier in 2025, the federal government reduced Newfoundland and Labrador’s nomination quota to just 1,050, raising concerns about the province’s ability to attract enough skilled workers. Following negotiations, however, the province secured an extra 1,000 spaces, increasing its total to 2,050 nominations through the NLPNP, plus 475 spots through the AIP. This brought the overall allocation for 2025 to 2,525, allowing the province to maintain a steady pace of invitations despite the initial cut.
So far this year, Newfoundland and Labrador has conducted multiple draws, including 256 ITAs in April, 328 in May, 320 in June, and 359 in July. The most recent August 29 draw demonstrates the province’s commitment to welcoming newcomers and addressing persistent labour market shortages. For candidates, this means the EOI system remains the key entry point, with regular opportunities to be invited throughout the year.
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.
Manitoba held a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on September 4, 2025. This round was one of the largest of the year, with a total of 3,347 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) issued to candidates who can now move one step closer to permanent residency in Canada.
Breakdown of Invitations
The invitations were distributed across three streams:
International Education Stream – 1,866 invitations
The numbers show a clear trend: while the Skilled Worker Stream remains highly competitive and selective, Manitoba continues to prioritize candidates who are already living, studying, or working in the province.
How this compares to previous draws
Just a few weeks earlier, on August 21, 2025, Manitoba issued 77 invitations under the Skilled Worker Stream with a minimum score of 612 points. That draw was much smaller but highlighted Manitoba’s use of strategic recruitment initiatives, which are targeted invitations designed to address very specific needs in the province’s labor market and communities.
Understanding Strategic Recruitment Initiatives
Strategic recruitment is one of the most unique aspects of the Manitoba PNP. Rather than relying solely on scores, the province can invite candidates who are most likely to settle successfully and contribute to its economy and culture. Here’s how these initiatives usually work:
Employer Services: Candidates with job offers from approved Manitoba employers may be invited directly, ensuring that local businesses can fill urgent labor shortages.
Francophone Community: Manitoba has a strong French-speaking population. Inviting Francophone candidates helps strengthen bilingual communities and align with Canada’s federal priorities for Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
Regional Communities: Manitoba wants to ensure growth beyond Winnipeg. By targeting candidates who are willing to live and work in smaller cities or rural areas, the province promotes balanced population distribution.
Ethnocultural Communities: Some invitations go to candidates with cultural or community connections in Manitoba. This makes settlement easier since newcomers already have social networks to support them.
These recruitment categories demonstrate that Manitoba looks beyond just scores and actively seeks people who will fit well into the province’s workforce and communities.
What This Means for Applicants
The September 4 draw confirms two important trends:
High scores are essential for the Skilled Worker Stream, where competition is tough and cutoffs can reach well into the 800s.
Local connections matter. International graduates, current workers in Manitoba, and candidates engaged with communities have much stronger chances of being invited.
For anyone considering applying to the Manitoba PNP, building strong ties whether through study, employment, or community involvement can be just as valuable as maintaining a high score in the Expression of Interest (EOI) system.
Final Thoughts
Manitoba continues to balance its immigration goals by bringing in highly skilled professionals while also supporting international graduates and fostering growth in smaller communities. With over 3,300 invitations issued in this latest round, the province shows no sign of slowing down its efforts to attract new residents who can contribute to its diverse economy and society.
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.
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:
Category-based draws offer new pathways – French speakers and professionals in priority sectors may benefit from lower CRS thresholds.
Upcoming categories will broaden opportunities – High-level professionals, STEM researchers, and military applicants should watch closely for the 2026 rollout.
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.
On September 3, 2025, Ontario’s immigrant program sent out 1,893 PR invitations through the Foreign Worker and International Student streams.
These invitations focused on 77 priority occupations across healthcare, tech, construction, and more—just a day after the province had already sent out 2,643 invitations on September 2
On September 3, 2025, the OINP issued 1,893 ITAs across two streams under the Employer Job Offer category, targeting candidates with job offers in 77 priority occupations.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Stream
Number of invitations issued
Date profiles created
Score range
Notes
Foreign Worker stream
1,134
July 2, 2025 – September 3, 2025
42 and above
Targeted draw for 77 priority occupations.
International Student stream
759
July 2, 2025 – September 3, 2025
63 and above
Targeted draw for 77 priority occupation
These draws follow an earlier round on September 2, when the OINP issued 2,643 invitations across three draws for foreign nationals with job offers in priority health occupations. This brings the total invitations in the first week of September to 4,536.
Earlier in 2025, the OINP confirmed its nomination allocation was cut to 10,750, down from 21,500 in 2024.
See below full list of 77 Priority Occupations targeted In OINP Draws
Ontario focused on 77 occupations to address labor gaps in healthcare, tech, construction, and beyond. Only candidates with the minimum score and a qualifying NOC job offer received invitations.
NOC 10011 — Human resources managers.
NOC 10012 — Purchasing managers.
NOC 10019 — Other administrative services managers.
NOC 10020 — Insurance, real estate and financial brokerage managers.
NOC 10021 — Banking, credit and other investment managers.
NOC 11200 — Human resources professionals.
NOC 12010 — Supervisors, general office and administrative support workers.
NOC 12011 — Supervisors, finance and insurance office workers.
NOC 92021 — Supervisors, electronics and electrical products manufacturing.
OINP Employer Job Offer Streams
Ontario’s Foreign Worker and International Student streams are direct pathways that don’t require Express Entry, linking job offers to provincial labor needs.
Foreign Worker Stream: Targets skilled workers with at least two years of experience (one for regulated jobs) in TEER 0–3 occupations. Applicants need a full-time job offer at or above the median wage and CLB 4+. In priority draws, the offer must fall within Ontario’s 77 in-demand occupations. After an ITA, the employer applies within 14 days, and the candidate has 17 days to submit their application. Ontario ties, like past work or study, can improve chances.
International Student Stream: Designed for graduates with job offers in TEER 0–3 roles. Candidates must have completed a two-year program (or one-year graduate program) at an eligible school in Canada or equivalent abroad. Same wage and language rules apply. Competition is higher here, with scores of 63+ often needed in fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Both streams use the Expression of Interest system, awarding points for job details, education, language, and location — with extra points for offers outside the GTA.
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.
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.
On September 2, 2025, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) marked a milestone by inviting 2,643 candidates to apply for permanent residency across three separate draws. This figure represents the program’s largest single-day issuance of invitations so far in 2025.
The draws targeted candidates residing in Canada who are employed in key healthcare roles, along with early childhood educators and assistants.
Profiles submitted between July 2, 2025, and September 2, 2025, were included in the selection.
See below details of latest OINP draw:
Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream
Number of Invitations: 1,305
Date Profiles Created: July 2, 2025 – September 2, 2025
Score Range: 41 and above
Aimed at candidates with job offers in nine key healthcare roles or as early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202).
2. Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream
Number of Invitations: 1,105
Date Profiles Created: July 2, 2025 – September 2, 2025
Score Range: 58 and above
Aimed at international students with job offers in nine healthcare roles or as early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202).
3. Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream
Number of Invitations: 233
Date Profiles Created: July 2, 2025 – September 2, 2025
Score Range: 33 and above
Aimed at candidates with job offers in NOC 44101 – home support workers, housekeepers, and related roles.
Together, these streams identified and selected 2,643 applicants who possessed the skills, credentials, and employment offers aligned with Ontario’s labor market needs.
See below Occupations in Focus: Addressing Ontario’s Priority Needs
The OINP draws focused on nine healthcare roles and early childhood educators, highlighting Ontario’s pressing demand for workers in these sectors.
Selected NOC Codes
NOC 31100 – Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine Includes pathologists and radiologists who are vital for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
NOC 31101 – Specialists in Surgery Surgeons addressing complex conditions such as orthopedic and cardiovascular issues.
NOC 31102 – General Practitioners and Family Physicians Primary care doctors serving communities across the province.
NOC 31300 – Nursing Coordinators and Supervisors Leaders who manage nursing teams and ensure smooth healthcare operations.
NOC 31302 – Nurse Practitioners Advanced practitioners often delivering primary care in high-need areas.
NOC 31303 – Physician Assistants, Midwives, and Allied Health Professionals Supporting roles that enhance physician services and specialized care, including midwifery.
NOC 32101 – Licensed Practical Nurses Providers of essential nursing care under RN and physician supervision.
NOC 33102 – Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates Critical support staff in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
NOC 42202 – Early Childhood Educators and Assistants Professionals fostering early learning and child development.
The In-Demand Skills Stream also focused on
NOC 44101 – Home Support Workers, Housekeepers, and Related Occupations, covering roles essential for assisting seniors and people with disabilities.
Applicants who received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) on September 2, 2025, are encouraged to move quickly to take advantage of this opportunity.
Since July 2, 2025, the OINP has introduced a key update requiring all job offer approvals to be submitted via the Employer Portal, streamlining the overall process.
This update enhances both efficiency and transparency in application handling.
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.
