How IRCC’s Latest Draw Sets the Stage for Immigration in 2025

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has commenced the year with its first Express Entry draw, focusing on candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This marks a significant start to 2025, following multiple draws in December that emphasized language proficiency and provincial nominations.

Highlights of the First Express Entry Draw

• Invitations Issued: 471 ITAs (Invitations to Apply)
• Minimum CRS Score: 793
• Focus: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates

This draw sets the tone for 2025, continuing IRCC’s strategy of prioritizing PNP candidates and those with strong French-language skills.

Overview of 2024 Draw Trends

IRCC demonstrated a clear preference for candidates in the following categories:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
3. French-Language Proficiency

These categories align with the department's focus on "Federal Economic Priorities" and "In-Canada Focus," ensuring a balanced intake of skilled immigrants and professionals.

Key Statistics for 2024:

• Total ITAs Issued in December: 2,561
• Major Categories: Healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency

Express Entry Categories: A Closer Look

1. Federal Economic Priorities
This category includes candidates with:

• French-language proficiency
• Experience in healthcare and trades

2. In-Canada Focus
Candidates in this group primarily belong to the:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

These categories collectively account for a substantial share of Express Entry admissions, with an allocation target of 124,680 landings for the year.

Express Entry Program Overview

What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration management system, encompassing three key programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

How It Works:

1. Candidates submit their profiles to the Express Entry pool.
2. Profiles are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on factors such as education, age, and work experience.
3. High-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence (PR).

Application Process:

• ITA recipients have 60 days to submit a complete PR application.
• IRCC aims to process applications within six months.
• Approved candidates are granted Canadian PR, enabling them to live, work, and eventually apply for citizenship.

Recap of 2024 Draws

Below is a summary of key draws from the past year:

Date	Draw Type	ITAs Issued	Minimum CRS
December 16	Provincial Nominee Program	1,085	727
December 3	French Language Proficiency	800	466
December 2	Provincial Nominee Program	676	705
November 20	Healthcare Occupations	3,000	463

Conclusion

IRCC’s Express Entry program continues to prioritize skilled immigrants who align with Canada’s economic and social goals. With an emphasis on targeted categories, the program remains a vital pathway for newcomers seeking to contribute to Canada’s growth.

Stay updated on future draws and opportunities to achieve your Canadian immigration goals!