February 20, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

For years, people have stared at their Express Entry scores wondering if they would ever see the inside of a Canadian permanent residence application. Scores in the 400s, 500s  sometimes even higher were the norm. So when Canada quietly dropped a cut-off of just 169 this week, a lot of people did a double take.

No, that’s not a typo.

On February 19, 2026, Canada ran its very first Express Entry draw under a brand new category  Physicians with Canadian Work Experience and invited 391 doctors to apply for permanent residence with a CRS score floor that hasn’t been seen since the height of a global pandemic. To put that in perspective, the last time the cut-off went lower than this was 2021, when it bottomed out at 75 under very extraordinary circumstances.

This is history. And it tells a bigger story about where Canada’s immigration system is heading.

Canada has a doctor problem – and immigration is the fix

Walk into a clinic in rural Ontario or a small town in Nova Scotia and you’ll likely see the same sign: “We are not accepting new patients.” Canada has been quietly battling a physician shortage for years, and the government has decided it’s done waiting for a domestic solution.

Back in December 2025, Canada’s immigration ministry announced a suite of new measures specifically designed to attract more doctors – both through federal and provincial channels. The Physicians with Canadian Work Experience category is the first real product of that plan, and its debut draw just proved it means business.

So who actually qualifies?

This isn’t a draw that’s open to every Express Entry hopeful. To have been considered, candidates needed to:

  • Already meet the basic requirements of one of the three main Express Entry programs
  • Have clocked at least 12 months of full-time physician work in Canada within the last three years
  • Be working in one of the specific medical occupations listed under the category
  • Have had an active Express Entry profile before January 3, 2026

The key phrase here is in Canada. This draw is squarely aimed at doctors already on the ground, already serving Canadian communities, and simply waiting for a clear path to stay permanently.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date Draw Type CRS cut-off score ITAs issued
February 19 Physicians with Canadian work experience 169 391
February 17 Canadian Experience Class 508 6,000
February 16 Provincial Nominee Program 789 279
February 6 French-Language proficiency 400 8,500
February 3 Provincial Nominee Program 749 423
January 21 Canadian Experience Class 509 6,000
January 20 Provincial Nominee Program 746 681
January 7 Canadian Experience Class 511 8,000
January 5 Provincial Nominee Program 711 574

2026 is moving fast – this is the proof

This physician draw was actually the ninth Express Entry selection of the year and we’re barely into February. Since January 1st, Canada has handed out 30,848 invitations across draws targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates, French speakers, provincial nominees, and now physicians.

The pattern is hard to ignore: Canada is pulling toward people already inside its borders, people already contributing, people who just need the paperwork to catch up with the life they’ve already built.

What this moment is really telling you

Whether you’re a doctor, a skilled worker, or someone who’s had an Express Entry profile collecting dust – this week’s draw is a signal, not just a statistic. Canada is creating new doors, and it’s doing it faster than most people are paying attention.

The risk isn’t applying. The risk is waiting too long to figure out your options.

If you’re unsure where your score stands, which category fits your background, or whether a Provincial Nomination could boost your profile: that’s exactly what our team untangles every day. From Express Entry and Provincial Nominations to school admissions and beyond, we’ll help you find the clearest, fastest route to your Canadian future.

Your next step starts with one conversation. Book your consultation using the link below – let’s make your move count.

1-hour consultation (Comprehensive and in-depth) :
30-minute consultation (Quick and focused) :

 

February 18, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been waiting for a good time to take your Canadian permanent residency dream seriously, that time might be right now.

See below details of the recent CEC draw:

  • Canada sent out 6,000 invitations to skilled workers through its Express Entry system
  • This draw specifically targeted candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • The score needed to qualify dropped to 508, the lowest it has been since 2024

So what is the Canadian Experience Class?

The CEC is a pathway designed for people who already have work experience in Canada. If you’ve worked there and built your life there even temporarily, this stream is essentially Canada saying, “We want you to stay.” The government has been heavily focused on this group in 2026, having now run three CEC-specific draws in just the first two months of the year.

In fact, since January, Canada has handed out over 20,000 invitations to CEC candidates alone, which tells you exactly where the country’s immigration priorities are sitting right now.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date Draw Type CRS cut-off score ITAs issued
February 17 Canadian Experience Class 508 6,000
February 16 Provincial Nominee Program 789 279
February 6 French-Language proficiency 400 8,500
February 3 Provincial Nominee Program 749 423
January 21 Canadian Experience Class 509 6,000
January 20 Provincial Nominee Program 746 681
January 7 Canadian Experience Class 511 8,000
January 5 Provincial Nominee Program 711 574

What does a lower score mean for you?

Every point counts in Express Entry. When the cutoff score drops, it opens the door for thousands of people who may have been just out of reach before. A score of 508 means more people qualify, and if your score is close to that range, now is the time to get your profile in order.

This is your sign to act

Whether you have Canadian work experience, you’re thinking about studying in Canada, or you’re exploring other immigration routes like Provincial Nomination, the window of opportunity is open right now and these windows don’t stay open forever.

Our team helps people navigate exactly this kind of moment – from Express Entry and Provincial Nomination to school admissions and more. Don’t guess your way through the process. Book a 30-minute 0r 60-minute consultation with us today and let’s figure out the best pathway for your situation together.

February 16, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

Good news as IRCC sent out fresh invitations to apply for permanent residence. This time around, 279 candidates with provincial nominations got their golden ticket through the Express Entry system.

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Express Entry draws this year, you’ll notice something interesting. Canada seems to be playing favorites with certain groups of applicants, and understanding this pattern could be the difference between waiting endlessly and getting your invitation sooner than you think.

What happened in this latest draw?

The latest selection was specifically for people who already have a Provincial Nominee Program certificate. To get picked, you needed two things: a score of at least 789 points on the ranking system, and you must have submitted your profile before early September last year. Yes, that’s a high score, but there’s a reason why it works this way.

Provincial nominees automatically get 600 extra points added to their base score. So if you’re sitting at around 190 points on your own, a provincial nomination shoots you up to 790, putting you well within the range for selection.

The bigger picture for 2026

So far this year, Canada has been laser-focused on three types of candidates: those with provincial nominations, people with Canadian work experience, and French speakers. That’s it. No general draws for everyone in the pool.

Out of the seven draws held so far, four have targeted provincial nominees specifically. Two others went to people with Canadian Experience Class qualifications, and one massive draw invited 8,500 French-speaking candidates.

The numbers tell a clear story. If you’re outside Canada without a provincial nomination or French language skills, your chances of getting picked in a general draw are looking slim right now. But if you have a way to get into one of these three categories, your path becomes much clearer.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date Draw Type CRS cut-off score ITAs issued
February 16 Provincial Nominee Program 789 279
February 6 French-Language proficiency 400 8,500
February 3 Provincial Nominee Program 749 423
January 21 Canadian Experience Class 509 6,000
January 20 Provincial Nominee Program 746 681
January 7 Canadian Experience Class 511 8,000
January 5 Provincial Nominee Program 711 574

Why provincial nominations matter more than ever

Think about it this way. Canada has different provinces with different needs. Alberta needs tech workers. Saskatchewan wants farmers and agriculture specialists. British Columbia is looking for healthcare professionals and skilled tradespeople. Each province runs its own nomination program and chooses people who match what they need.

When a province nominates you, they’re basically telling the federal government, “We want this person in our province.” That carries a lot of weight. Plus, those 600 bonus points make your profile incredibly competitive.

The catch is each province has its own rules, requirements, and processing times. Some look at your work experience, others care more about your education or language scores. Some even require you to have a job offer first.

What should you do next?

If you’re serious about moving to Canada, sitting around waiting for a general Express Entry draw probably isn’t your best strategy anymore. The government has shown us their hand, they want people who are already connected to Canada somehow, whether through work experience here, French language ability, or a provincial nomination.

Start by checking which provinces might be a good fit for your background. Look at what they’re asking for in their recent draws. Are you in an occupation they need? Do you meet their language requirements? Could you get a job offer in that province?

Some people make the mistake of just hoping their score will be enough in a future draw. But hope isn’t a strategy. Getting a provincial nomination is the clearest path forward for most people right now. It’s also worth exploring whether you could qualify for the Canadian Experience Class if you’re already in Canada on a work permit.

Ready to take control of your immigration journey?

The immigration landscape keeps shifting, and what worked last year might not work now. The latest Express Entry patterns show that targeted approaches are winning over the “wait and see” strategy.

Whether you need help understanding provincial nomination options, want to explore Express Entry possibilities, or need guidance on school admissions that could lead to Canadian work experience, having expert support makes all the difference. Don’t leave your future to chance when there are clear pathways available. [Book your consultation now] and let’s build a personalized strategy that actually gets you to Canada.

January 6, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

Canada has officially launched the first Express Entry draw of 2026, marking the beginning of a new year for skilled immigrants hoping to secure permanent residence. On January 5, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system in a draw focused on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.

Key Highlights of the January 5 Express Entry Draw

  • Draw date: January 5, 2026

  • ITAs issued: 574

  • Program targeted: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  • Minimum CRS score: 711

  • Tie-breaker cutoff: Candidates had to have submitted profiles before October 6, 2025 to be considered if tied at the cut-off score.

This draw represents the first round of Express Entry invitations for the year and continues Canada’s trend of programme-specific and category-based draws. In this case, priority was given to candidates who hold a provincial nomination – a powerful CRS booster that adds 600 points to an applicant’s score and greatly improves their chances of receiving an ITA.

Trends and Changes in the CRS Score Distribution

To help put things into perspective, here’s the CRS score distribution in the Express Entry pool as of January 4, 2026, just one day before the draw and comparison.

CRS score range Number of candidates (Jan 4, 2026) Number of candidates (Dec 14, 2025 Change
601-1200 559 390 169
501-600 21,013 21,792 -779
451-500 70,523 68,700 1,823
491-500 12,873 12,315 558
481-490 12,499 12,149 350
471-480 15,435 14,859 576
461-470 14,881 14,535 346
451-460 14,835 14,842 -7
401-450 65,120 66,948 -1,828
441-450 14,139 13,992 147
431-440 14,285 14,244 41
421-430 12,816 12,750 66
411-420 12,442 12,367 75
401-410 11,438 13,595 -2,157
351-400 52,469 52,574 -105
301-350 18,745 18,829 -84
0-300 8,125 8,069 56
Total 236,554 237,302 -748

What This Means for Immigration Candidates

The high CRS cutoff of 711 reflects the competitive nature of PNP-specific draws where candidates nominated by a province already have a significant advantage. Securing a provincial nomination remains one of the strongest strategies to receive an invitation under Express Entry, especially for skilled workers whose core scores might otherwise fall below typical thresholds.

Candidates invited in this draw now have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application. IRCC aims to process most complete applications within the standard six-month timeframe once an ITA is issued.

What to Expect in 2026

This first draw sets the tone for the year ahead. While this round focused exclusively on PNP candidates, future draws may include:

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws – likely with lower CRS thresholds for those with Canadian work experience.

  • Potential French-language focused draws, reflecting Canada’s francophone immigration priorities.

  • New categories such as targeted streams for specific occupations, including health professionals.

Whether you’re already in the Express Entry pool or planning to create a profile, 2026 looks set to remain competitive – with multiple pathways and programme streams shaping the year’s selections.

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 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

December 12, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada held a special Express Entry draw for healthcare workers on December 11, 2025. This type of draw targets professionals in healthcare and social services because Canada urgently needs skilled workers in these fields.

See below key results of the December 11 Draw

  • Date: December 11, 2025

  • Draw Number: #385 (Healthcare & Social Services)

  • Invitations Issued: 1,000

  • Minimum CRS Cut-Off Score: 476

  • Tie-Breaker Rule: Nov. 26, 2025

What is a Category-Based Draw?

Normally, Express Entry invites candidates with the highest CRS scores, regardless of occupation.

A category-based draw focuses on specific fields, like healthcare, to meet Canada’s labour needs. Only eligible professionals in the targeted occupations can receive invitations, even if their CRS is slightly lower than usual.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
December 10 Canadian Experience Class 6,000 520
December 8 Provincial Nominee Program 1,123 729
November 28 French language proficiency 6,000 408
November 25 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 531
November 25 Provincial Nominee Program 777 699
November 14 Healthcare and social services 3,500 462
November 12 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
November 10 Provincial Nominee Program 714 738
October 29 French language proficiency 6,000 416
October 28 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
October 27 Provincial Nominee Program 302 761
October 15 Healthcare and social services 2,500 472
October 14 Provincial Nominee Program 345 778
October 6 French language proficiency 4,500 432
October 1 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
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

CRS Score Analysis

The cut-off score of 476 tells us a few things:

  1. Competition is strong: Candidates need solid language scores, work experience, and education to reach this level.

  2. Healthcare workers get an advantage: Even if your CRS is lower than a general draw, being in a priority occupation like nursing or physiotherapy increases your chances.

  3. Tie-breaker matters: Always submit your profile early to avoid missing out if scores are equal.

Candidates just below the cut-off should improve their language scores, gain more work experience, or explore provincial nominations to boost their CRS.

Tips for Healthcare Professionals

  1. Keep your Express Entry profile updated with your current occupation and experience.

  2. Improve your CRS score: Focus on language tests, additional work experience, or a Canadian job offer.

  3. Know your occupation code: Make sure your healthcare role matches the eligible codes for category-based draws.

  4. Act quickly: Submit early to meet tie-breaker rules.

The Importance of This Draw

Canada is actively prioritizing healthcare professionals because the country faces labour shortages in essential services. This is a great opportunity for nurses, therapists, and technicians worldwide who want to live and work in Canada.

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 106,599 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system

Looking for expert help with your Canadian immigration journey?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, work permit, or other visa, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nominee profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or just need a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

December 9, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been watching Canada’s Express Entry draws closely, December 8, 2025, was a day worth noting. While most people focus on numbers and cut-offs, there’s a bigger story here,  one that can help you plan your next steps in immigrating to Canada.

The Significance of This Draw

A total of 1,123 candidates with provincial nominations received Invitations to Apply (ITAs). That’s huge, the largest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw of 2025.

Here’s the thing, having a provincial nomination gives you 600 extra points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which almost guarantees an ITA. In this draw, the lowest CRS score to receive an ITA was 729. If you didn’t have a nomination, this round wasn’t for you but it signals something important about Canada’s immigration strategy.

See below details of December 8, Express Entry draw

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Date: December 8, 2025
  • Lowest CRS score: 729
  • Number of invitations issued: 1,123
  • Tie-breaking rule: March 05, 2025

The Bigger Picture:

1. Provincial Nominations Are More Valuable Than Ever

Canada is increasingly using targeted draws rather than broad ones. This means provinces are actively choosing candidates who fit their labor market needs. If you’ve been thinking about provincial programs, now is the time to explore them. A nomination doesn’t just add points, it can fast-track your application.

2. Competition Is Still High

Even with a provincial nomination, the cut-off was steep. This shows that top-tier candidates are the ones moving forward. If you’re aiming for Express Entry without a nomination, focus on boosting CRS points through:

  • Improving language test scores

  • Gaining more work experience

  • Enhancing education credentials

3. Timing and Strategy Matter

IRCC uses tie-breakers based on profile submission dates. In other words, being ready and applying early can make a difference, especially when CRS scores are close.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
November 28 French language proficiency 6,000 408
November 25 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 531
November 25 Provincial Nominee Program 777 699
November 14 Healthcare and social services 3,500 462
November 12 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
November 10 Provincial Nominee Program 714 738
October 29 French language proficiency 6,000 416
October 28 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
October 27 Provincial Nominee Program 302 761
October 15 Healthcare and social services 2,500 472
October 14 Provincial Nominee Program 345 778
October 6 French language proficiency 4,500 432
October 1 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
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

Tips to Improve Your Chances

  1. Consider Provincial Nominees: Check which provinces match your skills and experience, nominations can make all the difference.

  2. Optimize Your CRS: Small improvements in language, education, or work experience can push you over the threshold.

  3. Stay Prepared: Keep documents ready, update your profile promptly, and monitor draw trends. Targeted draws are becoming the norm, so readiness pays off.

  4. Think Long-Term: Even if you miss a draw, improving your profile now sets you up for the next one.

What You Need to Know

The latest PNP draw isn’t just numbers on a page but a clear signal: Canada values skilled immigrants who align with provincial needs, and strategic planning can be your ticket in. Whether it’s through a nomination, improving your CRS, or timing your application wisely, you can position yourself to succeed.

Remember, immigration isn’t just about waiting for ITAs, it’s about preparing, strategizing, and acting at the right time.

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 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

December 9, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Big news for doctors working in Canada! On December 8, 2025, the Canadian government has introduced a new Express Entry pathway specifically for internationally trained doctors who have worked in Canada for at least one year. This makes it faster and easier for doctors already living and working in Canada to get permanent residency.

Who Can Benefit?

If you are a doctor in Canada and meet these criteria, you may qualify:

  • You have worked in Canada for at least 12 months (full-time or part-time equivalent).

  • Your work experience is in one eligible physician occupation:

    • General practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102)

    • Specialists in surgery (NOC 31101)

    • Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine (NOC 31100)

This new pathway is designed to help doctors already contributing to Canada’s healthcare system to stay permanently. Invitations under this category are expected to begin in early 2026.

How This Pathway Works

The new measures announced by Minister of Immigration Lena Metlege Diab and Maggie Chi include:

  1. A new Express Entry category for physicians with Canadian work experience.

  2. 5,000 specially reserved permanent residence spots for doctors nominated by provinces and territories.

  3. Expedited work permit processing for nominated, practice-ready physicians – decisions in just 14 days, compared to the usual several months.

This new category operates alongside all other existing Express Entry programs, but it specifically prioritizes doctors who have Canadian work experience, unlike the current healthcare occupations category, which only requires six months of work experience either in Canada or abroad.

The Impact for Doctors and Healthcare

Canada has been facing a shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas and in certain specialties. Many international doctors already work in Canada on temporary permits. This change could make a big difference for international doctors:

    • It makes it easier to stay permanently in Canada.

    • It recognizes the skills and experience you’ve gained while working in Canada.

    • It helps address doctor shortages, especially in rural areas and critical specialties.

    • Provincial nominations and fast-track work permits mean you can continue working without long delays while your permanent residency application is processed.

Next Steps If You Are a Doctor in Canada

  1. Check your eligibility

    • Have you worked in Canada for at least 12 months in an eligible physician occupation?

  2. Get your documents ready

    • Employment proof, license verification, and educational credentials.

  3. Consider Express Entry

    • This is the immigration system you may now qualify for under the new doctor-specific category.

  4. Explore provincial nominations

    • Some provinces are reserving spots for doctors, which may speed up your application.

  5. Contact an immigration agency

    • Getting expert help ensures your application is complete and gives you the best chance for fast approval.

Have questions?

If you’re an international doctor working in Canada and want to take advantage of this new pathway, our team is here to guide you. We can:

  • Check your eligibility

  • Help prepare all documents

  • Guide you through Express Entry and provincial nominations

  • Maximize your chances for permanent residency

Don’t wait, the new pathway will start in early 2026! Contact us today for a 30- minute or 60-minute consultation and secure your future in Canada.

November 27, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On November 26, 2025, IRCC held a new round of its Express Entry draw under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The outcome could matter a lot if you’ve been keeping an eye on permanent-residence (PR) opportunities in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of what happened, what it signals, and what you should watch next.

See below details of the draw:

  • Invitations issued: 1,000

  • Minimum CRS Score: 531

  • Draw number / type: #381

  • Tie-break rule: October 8, 2025

What This Means in Plain English

1. Canada is still focusing on people already in the country

This is not the first time Canada has held a CEC-only draw. They have been selecting many people who already study or work in Canada. If you are here on a work permit or after graduation, this is good news for you.

2. The CRS score is still high, but slightly lower than before

A cut-off of 531 is still competitive, but it is a bit lower compared to some of the earlier CEC draws. This gives hope to people whose scores are in the low 530s.

3. IRCC is becoming more predictable

Canada seems to be holding draws more regularly again. This makes it easier for applicants to plan and keep track of what is happening.

Who Benefits the Most?

This draw is most helpful for:

  • People working in Canada with one or more years of experience.

  • Candidates with CRS scores around 530–540.

  • Those who submitted their profile before early October.

If you are outside Canada, you can still be selected in other draw types, but this specific draw mainly helps people who already live and work here.

What If You’re Applying From Outside Canada?

Don’t get discouraged – Express Entry is still open for you. Here’s what you can do to improve your chances:

  • Aim for a strong CRS score by improving your language test results.

  • Consider ways to get Canadian work or study experience if possible.

  • Look at Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – these can boost your CRS by 600 points.

  • Keep your profile updated and active.

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 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

November 26, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada held its 380th Express Entry draw on November 25, 2025, this round was exclusively for candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). In total, 777 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued.

A quick look at the results

  • Draw Date: November 25, 2025
  • Category: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Total Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 777
  • Minimum CRS score: 699
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: September 6, 2025

If you’re new to this: candidates who receive a PNP nomination automatically get 600 extra CRS points, which is why the cutoff is usually higher for these draws.

A CRS score of 699 suggests that even applicants with a moderate base score (before the 600-point boost) were able to receive an invitation this time.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
November 25 Provincial Nominee Program 777 699
November 14 Healthcare and social services 3,500 462
November 12 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
November 10 Provincial Nominee Program 714 738
October 29 French language proficiency 6,000 416
October 28 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
October 27 Provincial Nominee Program 302 761
October 15 Healthcare and social services 2,500 472
October 14 Provincial Nominee Program 345 778
October 6 French language proficiency 4,500 432
October 1 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
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

Important points about this draw

This draw fits into a bigger pattern we’ve been seeing for most of 2025:

  • More targeted draws

  • More attention on PNP candidates

  • More opportunities for people with in-demand skills

Canada is trying to match newcomers with real labour needs across provinces. That’s why PNP draws remain frequent, provinces know exactly what skills they need, and they nominate accordingly.

Good News if You’re Planning to Apply

Even if your CRS score isn’t very high on its own, a provincial nomination can completely change your chances. For many people especially skilled workers abroad, the PNP route is becoming one of the strongest ways to immigrate.

This draw also shows that:

  • Provinces are actively nominating candidates

  • IRCC is consistently issuing ITAs

  • More PNP-focused draws are likely on the way

Tips if you’re hoping to receive an ITA soon

Here are a few things you can do right now:

  1. Explore provincial programs: Each province has different needs and different pathways.

  2. Keep your Express Entry profile active: Submission dates matter when ties happen.

  3. Update your documents regularly: Language tests, passports, employment letters – keep them ready.

  4. Watch draw patterns: It helps you choose the best strategy for your profile.

How to quickly understand your CRS Score & improve it

Below is the exact framework I use to help people understand their chances for Express Entry + PNP.

1. Start with your core CRS Score

Your base CRS score comes from:

  • Age

  • Education

  • Work experience

  • English/French test scores

  • Canadian experience (if any)

Most people fall between 360–480 before any extra factors.

This base score matters because provinces also look at it when considering nominations.

2. Add your skill boosters

These are elements that make your profile stand out:

✔ Strong English (CLB 9 or above)

This alone can raise your CRS by 50–100+ points.

✔ Foreign work + education combinations

These add bonus points many people don’t realize they qualify for.

✔ Spouse factors (if applicable)

Your partner’s education and language score can add up to 40 points.

3. Understand whether your score Is competitive

Here’s a simple rule of thumb based on 2025 draw trends:

If your CRS is 480+

You have a realistic chance in general, targeted, or category-based draws.

If your CRS is 420–480

You likely need:

  • a PNP nomination, or

  • a huge language score boost

If your CRS is below 420

PNP is usually the best path.

4. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Chances

Here’s when PNPs love your profile:

You work in an in-demand field

Examples many provinces focus on:

  • Healthcare

  • IT

  • Engineering

  • Logistics

  • Agriculture

  • Trades

  • Early childhood education

You have a Canadian connection

  • Work experience

  • Education

  • Family

  • Job offer

Your language score is strong (even without high CRS)

Why PNP is powerful:

A nomination adds 600 points – which is why candidates reached the CRS 699 cutoff in the Nov 25 draw.

5. What you can do next

Here’s a simple, practical improvement plan most applicants follow:

Step 1 – Pull your exact CRS score

(We can calculate this for you.)

Step 2 – Compare your occupation to this year’s provincial needs

We can quickly check where your job is in demand.

Step 3 – Find PNP streams you actually qualify for

No guessing. Just clear options.

Step 4 – Identify the fastest boost

This is usually:

  • retaking IELTS

  • ECA upgrade

  • spouse language score

  • French (if willing – it’s powerful)

If you’re unsure where you fit in, we’re here to clear things up. Book a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation with us, and we’ll walk through your profile and match you with the right program.

What You Should Remember

The November 25 draw is another reminder that Canada continues to welcome skilled newcomers  especially through the provinces. If you’ve been thinking about applying, this is a great time to focus on the PNP streams that match your background.

 

November 13, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On November 12, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Draw #378.

See below details of November 12 draw

  • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

  • Draw Date: November 12, 2025

  • CRS Score: 533

  • Number of Invitations: 1,000

  • Tie Breaking Rule: October 17, 2025

The draw was specific to the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program meaning candidates who already have skilled work experience in Canada.

In short: If you’re in the Express Entry pool under CEC, and your CRS is around 533 (or higher), you had a shot this time.

Here’s why this draw is important and what you should keep in mind:

It tells us where the bar currently is

The CRS cut-off of 533 gives you a benchmark. If you’re preparing your profile, you now know roughly what you may need to aim for (though it can change).

Program-specific draws are the trend

Rather than “all-program” draws (where anyone under the three main Express Entry programs is considered), IRCC is doing more program-specific draws. 
That means: If you have Canadian experience, you’re in a favourable track. If not, you might need to look at other categories or boost your score.

Competition remains strong

Even though this is a program-specific draw, a cut-off of over 500 shows the competition remains high. If you’re a profile with lower CRS, you’ll need to consider ways to improve your score.

Timing and selections are strategic

IRCC uses tie-breaking rules (for example, a profile submitted before a certain date/time will be favoured when scores are equal) and monitors labour market needs. 
It’s smart to have your profile in early and keep it up to date.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
November 10 Provincial Nominee Program 714 738
October 29 French language proficiency 6,000 416
October 28 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 533
October 27 Provincial Nominee Program 302 761
October 15 Healthcare and social services 2,500 472
October 14 Provincial Nominee Program 345 778
October 6 French language proficiency 4,500 432
October 1 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
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

What this means for you

Depending on where you are in your journey, here are some take-aways:

If you’re already in the EE pool

  • Check your CRS: If you’re 533 or above, you might be in the ballpark for CEC draws like this one.

  • If you’re below that, you can boost your CRS via:

    • Better language test results (higher scores)

    • Additional Canadian work experience (for CEC)

    • A job offer in Canada (if eligible)

    • Getting a provincial nomination (PNP) – adds 600 points.

  • Keep your profile updated. Make sure you don’t miss any deadlines or fail to provide required documentation if you get an ITA (Invitation to Apply).

If you’re not yet in the pool

  • Make sure you qualify for one of the Express Entry programs (CEC, Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades)  each has eligibility criteria.

  • Get your documents ready: language test, educational credential assessment (if needed), proof of work experience, etc.

  • Consider the program-specific angle: If you have Canadian skilled work experience, CEC might be the path. If you have something unique (French-language proficiency, trades, etc), keep an eye on category-based draws.

If you’re watching for future draws

  • Because the draw was program-specific, if you’re not in CEC, you may need to wait for a draw applicable to your program or improve your CRS.

  • The pool of candidates changes constantly, new profiles go in, old ones expire. Your relative standing can shift.

  • Stay informed: IRCC publishes draw results, and immigration-weekday sites/blogs track trends.

A few extra tips

  • Don’t assume every draw will look like this. The number of invites and CRS cut-offs can change. Program-specific draws might have very different cut-off scores than general draws.

  • Tie-breaker matters. If you have the same CRS as someone else, but submitted later, you may miss out. So profile submission time counts.

  • Focus on increasing your CRS if you’re below the cut-off. Sometimes even a small bump in language test scores or a new job can make a difference.

  • Keep your profile current. If your situation changes (e.g., more work experience, improved language), update the profile — you don’t want outdated info.

  • Have your documents ready. If you’re invited (an ITA), you’ll have a limited window (typically 60 days) to submit a full application. Having everything ready in advance helps.

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 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com