IRCC Conducts Latest Express Entry Draw, Issuing 646 ITAs
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a new round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system, inviting 646 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
To be considered for this draw, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750 and had to have submitted their Express Entry profile before 5:41 PM Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on July 23, 2024.
Overview of Recent Express Entry Draws
This latest round marks the third Express Entry draw in February. Earlier in the month, a PNP-specific draw on February 4 invited 455 candidates, followed by a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on February 5, which issued 4,000 ITAs.
Since the beginning of 2025, IRCC has prioritized draws focused on PNP and CEC candidates. Notably, the number of ITAs issued in CEC draws has returned to the higher levels observed in 2024.
Interestingly, there have been no category-based draws for priority groups such as French-speaking candidates, healthcare professionals, or tradespeople, despite IRCC designating these groups as key categories for Express Entry in 2025. The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan has allocated 41,700 permanent resident landings for these priority groups.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Should You Enter the Express Entry Pool with a Low CRS Score?
Many candidates wonder whether they should enter the Express Entry pool if their CRS score is on the lower end. While a low CRS score might seem discouraging, submitting a profile is often beneficial. Here’s why:
- CRS Scores Vary Across Draws: CRS cut-off scores fluctuate, and what appears to be a low score today could become competitive in future draws. Candidates who are not in the pool cannot benefit from these changes.
- Tie-Breaking Rule Advantage: The tie-breaking rule favors candidates who have submitted their profiles earlier. If two candidates have the same CRS score, priority is given to the one who created their profile first. Entering the pool early can be an advantage.
- Opportunity to Improve CRS Score: While in the Express Entry pool, candidates can work on increasing their CRS scores by improving language test results, gaining more work experience, or enhancing educational qualifications. These updates can be made without needing to create a new profile.
- Access to Additional Immigration Pathways: Having an Express Entry profile makes candidates eligible for other immigration programs, such as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and pilot projects. This increases the chances of receiving an ITA or a nomination for permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
The Express Entry system continues to be a vital pathway for immigration to Canada. Even if your CRS score is currently low, entering the pool increases your chances of selection, either through direct Express Entry draws or provincial nominations.
Staying informed about Express Entry trends and working on ways to improve your CRS score can significantly enhance your chances of receiving an ITA. Keep monitoring updates to stay ahead in your immigration journey.