Express Entry Fast-Tracked in 2025 – Is Your PR Stream on the List?

In a major update that will impact thousands of applicants, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially outlined which permanent residence (PR) applications it plans to process in 2025. While many popular programs such as Express Entry and PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) will see full application inventory cleared this year, other economic pathways will only have a portion of their backlog addressed.

For hopeful immigrants and applicants already in the queue, this announcement offers much-needed clarity—and raises critical questions about wait times, processing priorities, and program selection. Let’s dive into the significance of IRCC’s 2025 PR processing plan.

Significance of IRCC’s 2025 PR Processing Plan

1. Express Entry Streams to See Full Clearance

IRCC has confirmed that all applications under the Express Entry system will be processed in 2025. This includes:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

  
  

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

• Enhanced PNP streams (those aligned with Express Entry)

According to IRCC’s inventory update as of September 11, this includes:

• CEC: 19,300 applications

• FSW: 12,500 applications

Wait times remain reasonable: Between 5 to 7 months on average throughout 2024 and early 2025, making these programs the fastest route to PR. Learn more about Express Entry and eligibility requirements here

2. Base PNP Streams Will Face Long Delays

While enhanced PNPs (linked to Express Entry) will be fully processed, base PNP streams—those not linked to Express Entry—will only see 35% of their applications processed in 2025.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Total applications: 87,700

• To be processed: 30,695

Wait times: Base PNP applicants can expect delays up to 24 months, especially if submitted in 2024 or later.

If you’re considering a PNP route, now might be the time to consider provinces using Express Entry-aligned pathways.

Also read: BC’s Latest PNP Draw Opens Opportunities for Skilled Workers & Entrepreneurs

3. Community and Quebec Pathways Get Priority

IRCC plans to fully process the inventory for the following Quebec and federal community pathways:

• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ)

• Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

• Quebec Pilot Programs

• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

• Francophone & Rural Community Immigration Pilots

Application counts:

• Quebec Skilled Worker: 27,600

• Community Pilots: 3,500

Wait times are better: Quebec’s skilled worker applications are expected to be processed in 8–9 months, while community pilot timelines have dropped to 7 months by Q2 2025.

These pathways reflect Canada’s regional immigration priorities, aiming to attract skilled immigrants to underpopulated or rural areas.

4. Low Priority for Caregiver and Startup Programs

In contrast, programs like the Caregiver Pilots, Start-up Visa (SUV), and Agri-Food Pilot will see very limited processing:

Yes, you read that right—Start-up Visa applications could take over 30 years to process at current rates. This signals that IRCC is de-prioritizing these programs in favor of pathways that directly support regional or economic needs.

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Slows Down

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) will also see slower movement, with only 33% of its backlog processed in 2025.

• Inventory: 12,100

• To be processed: 3,993

• Wait times: Up to 27 months and increasing

Despite the program’s popularity, limited processing may frustrate applicants. If you’re in the AIP queue, it’s advisable to explore alternative options like Express Entry-aligned PNPs.

Need help evaluating your best PR pathway? Book a free consultation with A2Zimmi’s immigration experts

Inventory Summary Table – Who Gets Processed in 2025?

What This Means for PR Applicants in 2025

Winners:

• Express Entry and Enhanced PNP applicants

• Quebec and Community Pilot program candidates

• CEC/FSW/FSTP applicants looking for fast processing

Delayed:

• Base PNP applicants

• Start-up Visa entrepreneurs

• Caregivers and applicants to closed pilot programs

If you're unsure where your current or planned application stands, or you're choosing between programs, it’s more important than ever to make a strategic decision.

The IRCC’s 2025 PR processing plan sends a clear message: Canada is focused on clearing high-impact immigration pathways that address skilled labor shortages and regional growth. Programs like Express Entry, Enhanced PNP, and Community Pilots will see fast movement, while other economic pilots and caregiver streams face significant delays.

Want faster results? Choose a program aligned with Canada’s current immigration priorities.

Visit A2Zimmi or book a consultation to understand your best PR options based on your profile, goals, and urgency.