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Tag Archives: #ExpressEntry

August 29, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

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

Category Priorities for 2025

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

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

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

Highlights from 2025 Draws So Far

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

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

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

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

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

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

What This Means

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

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

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 22, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

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

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

Key Change in the Application Process

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

Now, the process is flipped:

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

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

Why Did IRCC Make This Change?

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

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

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

How the Medical Exam Works

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

Here’s what to expect:

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

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

Medical Exam Checklist for Express Entry Applicants

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

  1. Book Your Appointment Early

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

  2. Prepare Your Documents

    • Passport or government-issued ID.

    • Medical records and list of current medications.

    • Vaccination history (if available).

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

  3. During the Exam

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

    • Children may have fewer tests.

  4. Pay the Fees

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

    • Paid directly to the doctor/clinic.

  5. Get Proof of Exam

    • The doctor provides an Information Sheet or eMedical document.

    • Keep it safe.

  6. Upload With Your Application

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

    • Without it, your application will be considered incomplete.

  7. Check Validity

    • Results last for 12 months.

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

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

Things Applicants Should Keep in Mind

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

Quick Comparison

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

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

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

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 20, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

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

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

See below details of August 19, 2025 draw

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

See below summary of Express Entry draws so far in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
August 19 Healthcare and social services 2,500 470
August 18 Provincial Nominee Program 192 800
August 8 French language proficiency 2,500 481
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

 

See below CRS Score distribution in the pool

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

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

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

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

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

 

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 19, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada’s immigration system is getting tougher and more selective. The Express Entry program, which manages skilled worker applications for permanent residency, saw several important updates this August. From higher score requirements to new health exam rules.

On August 18, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 192 candidates through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 800, one of the highest of the year.

See below summary of August 18th Express Entry draw

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Date and time: August 18, 2025
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 800
  • Number of invitations issued: 192
  • Rank needed: 192 or above
  • Tie-breaking rule: February 11, 2025

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
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

General candidates face more competition, while French speakers and provincial nominees still have strong chances.

New Medical Exam Rule

Starting August 21, 2025, Express Entry applicants must complete their Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their application.

Previously, medicals were done later in the process. Now, skipping this step means your application won’t even be accepted. Applicants are being advised to book exams early to avoid delays.

See below CRS Score distribution in the pool as at August 17, 2025

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

What’s Coming Next

IRCC is also planning new category-based draws that focus on specific skills. In 2026, a brand-new stream called “Leadership & Innovation” will launch. It will prioritize:

  • Senior managers

  • Scientists and researchers

  • High-ranking military officers

This could give experienced professionals a much faster path to Canadian permanent residency.

What Applicants Should Do

  1. Boost your CRS score – Language tests, more work experience, and provincial nominations can help.

  2. Consider category-based opportunities – French proficiency and in-demand jobs have lower cut-offs.

  3. Get medical exams done early – It’s now mandatory before applying.

  4. Stay updated – The 2026 Leadership & Innovation stream could open new doors.

August proved that Express Entry is becoming more competitive and more selective. Candidates with French skills, provincial nominations, or strong professional experience have the best chances. With the new medical exam rule and future pathways like the Leadership & Innovation stream, staying prepared and informed is more important than ever.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 12, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On August 8, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a category-based Express Entry draw focused exclusively on candidates with French language proficiency. In this round, 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence were issued to eligible applicants who met the language requirement and had a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 481.

See below details of Express Entry draw of August 8, 2025

  • Date and Time: August 8, 2025
  • Category: French Language Proficiency (Version 1)
  • Number of ITAs Issued: 2,500
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate: 481
  • Rank Required: 2,500 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: Profiles submitted before July 18, 2025

This draw was aimed at French-speaking workers outside Quebec. Canada uses these targeted draws to support Francophone communities and bring in skilled workers who can help meet labour market needs. French speakers often benefit from lower CRS cut-offs in these special rounds compared to general draws

It was also the third Express Entry draw in just one week, coming after a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on August 7 and a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on August 6. This shows that Canada is increasing the pace of invitations to meet its immigration goals.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025 so far

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
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

For anyone hoping to move to Canada, improving French skills can be a great way to boost your chances of getting an invitation under this category.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 8, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On August 7, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held an Express Entry draw and invited 1,000 candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) to apply for permanent residency. Candidates needed to have a cut-off score of 534 to be considered for this draw.

See below details of latest Express Entry draw of August 7, 2025

  • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 534
  • Number of invitations issued: 1,000
  • Rank needed: 1,000 or above
  • Tie-breaking rule: August 03, 2025

This Express Entry draw is the second one this month. It comes after three recent draws: one for healthcare and social services on July 22, a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on July 21, and a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on July 8.

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 50,628 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through Express Entry.

Most of this year’s draws have focused on PNP candidates. The rest have targeted CEC applicants, French-speaking candidates, and those in priority job categories.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
August 7 Canadian Experience Class 1,000 534
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

 

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 228
501-600 24,165
451-500 76,004
491-500 12,975
481-490 12,890
471-480 16,836
461-470 17,383
451-460 15,920
401-450 73,839
441-450 15,201
431-440 16,142
421-430 14,652
411-420 14,456
401-410 13,388
351-400 53,590
301-350 20,534
0-300 8,225
Total 256,585

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

August 7, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada held its first Express Entry draw for August on August 6, 2025. In this round, 225 people were invited to apply for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). To get an invitation, candidates needed a CRS score of at least 739, which is quite high.

This draw was only for candidates who had a provincial nomination, which gives them an extra 600 points in the system. making it easier to meet the cut-off.

See below details of latest Express Entry Draw:

  • Category: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Date and time: August 6, 2025
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 739
  • Number of invitations issued: 225
  • Rank needed: 225 or above
  • Tie-breaking rule: April 23, 2025

Review of Express Entry in 2025

So far this year, Canada has not done any “all-program” draws (which used to invite a wide range of candidates). Instead, the focus has shifted to specific groups like:

  • People with provincial nominations

  • French-speaking candidates

  • Workers in healthcare, tech, education, and other in-demand jobs

  • Those with Canadian work or study experience

Between January and July 2025, Canada has held 27 draws and issued just under 50,000 invitations. This is lower than previous years, showing that Canada is being more selective this year.

See below details of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
August 6 Provincial Nominee Program 225 739
July 22 Healthcare and social services 4,000 475
July 21 Provincial Nominee Program 202 788
July 8 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 518
July 7 Provincial Nominee Program 356 750
June 26 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 521
June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742
June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529
June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784
June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504
June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726
May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

 

See below latest CRS Score Distribution

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 228
501-600 24,165
451-500 76,004
491-500 12,975
481-490 12,890
471-480 16,836
461-470 17,383
451-460 15,920
401-450 73,839
441-450 15,201
431-440 16,142
421-430 14,652
411-420 14,456
401-410 13,388
351-400 53,590
301-350 20,534
0-300 8,225
Total 256,585

What This Means for You

If you don’t have a provincial nomination, it’s now harder to get invited unless you fit into a special category. To improve your chances, consider:

  • Applying to a PNP stream

  • Learning French

  • Gaining work or study experience in Canada

  • Working in a field that’s currently in demand

What’s Next?

More draws are expected later this month, and they may target specific job fields or language skills. If you’re planning to move to Canada, now is the time to update your Express Entry profile and explore other options that can boost your CRS score.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

 

August 4, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On July 25, 2025, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) invited 39 candidates under the Express Entry – Priority Sectors Stream, specifically targeting professionals in the construction sector. The cut off-score for this draw was 66. 

What Happened in July? A Busy Month for Alberta Immigration

The July 25 draw capped off a very active month for Alberta’s PNP. Between July 3 and July 25, the province held eight different draws, inviting a total of 443 candidates across a variety of sectors.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some key draws:

  • Healthcare Stream (July 3 & 9): Focused on both Express Entry and non-Express Entry candidates with scores as low as 53.

  • Agriculture and Aviation Sectors (July 4 & 8): Invited candidates with CRS scores in the 50s and 60s.

  • Law Enforcement (July 16): Very selective, inviting less than 10 candidates with scores as low as 49.

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream (July 11): The largest single draw of the month, issuing 269 invitations to candidates already working in Alberta.

Alberta’s 2025 Nomination Status

As at August 1, 2025, Alberta has issued 3,134 nominations out of its annual cap of 4,875, leaving over 1,741 nomination slots still available before the year ends.

Here’s how the remaining allocations look:

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream: 984 nominations still open

  • Healthcare Pathways: 249 remaining

  • Priority Sectors (including Construction, Tech, Agriculture): 161 remaining

  • Law Enforcement: Fewer than 15 still to be issued

Thousands of candidates remain in the queue, but the low CRS thresholds and targeted sector draws mean there are still good chances for eligible candidates to get invited.

Why This Draw Matters

This draw is important for several reasons:

  1. Low CRS Score: A minimum score of 66 shows Alberta is prioritizing job relevance and in-demand skills over high CRS scores.

  2. Sector-Based Targeting: Alberta is clearly focusing on industries with shortages especially construction, healthcare, aviation, and agriculture.

  3. Regular Invitations: With eight draws in July alone, Alberta is proving to be one of the most active provinces for immigration.

The July 25 draw is another example of Alberta’s practical and flexible approach to immigration. With many nomination slots still available, candidates in in-demand sectors especially those already in Canada or with Canadian job offers have a strong chance of getting invited.

If you’re planning to move to Canada through the PNP route, Alberta may be one of your best options in 2025.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

July 23, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

On July 22, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency through its most recent Express Entry draw.

This round focused on 37 occupations within the healthcare and social services sectors.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score had fallen to 475,  a decrease of 29 points compared to the previous healthcare and social services draw held in June 2025.

See below details of July 22 Express Entry draw

  • Date and Time: July 22, 2025
  • Category: Healthcare and Social Services Occupations
  • Number of ITAs Issued: 4,000
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate: 475
  • Rank Required: 4,000 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: March 13, 2025

See below full list of 37 Healthcare and Social Services occupations invited

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

This marks the fourth Express Entry draw in July, following two PNP draws on July 7 and 21, and a CEC draw on July 8.

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 49,403 ITAs, with most draws targeting PNP candidates, while others have focused on CEC applicants, French speakers, and priority occupations.

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 200
501-600 21,348
451-500 78,339
491-500 13,567
481-490 13,941
471-480 17,741
461-470 17,397
451-460 15,693
401-450 73,409
441-450 15,124
431-440 16,007
421-430 14,463
411-420 14,500
401-410 13,315
351-400 54,165
301-350 21,122
0-300 8,331
Total 256,914

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
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

Candidates who are issued an ITA have 60 days to submit their full application for permanent residency. IRCC processes 80% of these applications within six months, providing a streamlined path to settling in Canada.

 

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

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

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

July 22, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada conducted its latest Express Entry draw on July 21, 2025, and it’s good news for those who have been nominated by a Canadian province through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

See below details of latest Express Entry Draw

– Date of Draw: July 21, 2025

– Program Targeted: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

– Number of Invitations Issued: 202

– Minimum CRS Score Required: 788

– Tie Breaking Rule- June 5, 2025

What Does This Mean?

This draw was only for candidates who had already received a provincial nomination. A provincial nomination gives applicants an automatic 600 extra points on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. That’s why the cut-off score is quite high. Without that 600 boost, most candidates wouldn’t be able to reach this score.

If you were invited in this draw, it means you are now officially being invited to apply for permanent residence (PR) in Canada.

See below CRS Score Distribution

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 200
501-600 21,348
451-500 78,339
491-500 13,567
481-490 13,941
471-480 17,741
461-470 17,397
451-460 15,693
401-450 73,409
441-450 15,124
431-440 16,007
421-430 14,463
411-420 14,500
401-410 13,315
351-400 54,165
301-350 21,122
0-300 8,331
Total 256,914

What Happens Next for Invited Candidates?

If you received an invitation:

1.You’ll have 60 days to submit your full permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

2.You’ll need to provide all required documents (police checks, medical exams, proof of funds, etc.).

3.IRCC will then process your application—processing times can vary, but PNP applicants are usually prioritized.

What If You Weren’t Invited?

Don’t worry! Canada runs different types of Express Entry draws.

If you are not nominated through a province, you could still qualify through other categories, such as:

•Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For people already working in Canada.

•Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) – For skilled workers with experience abroad.

•Category-based draws – For people in specific industries like healthcare, tech, or those with strong French language skills.

 

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
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

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