In its first Express Entry draw of February 2025, the Canadian government has issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
The Express Entry system, managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ranks candidates based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, which consider factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residency through regular draws.
According to Immigration News Canada (INC), the latest draw, held on February 5, 2025, had a CRS cutoff score of 521—the lowest for a CEC draw this year. The tie-breaking rule for the draw was set for November 14, 2024.
To improve their chances of receiving an ITA, candidates can take several steps to boost their CRS scores, including:
Achieving higher scores in language proficiency tests; gaining additional work experience in Canad; securing a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points to the CRS score and furthering their education or obtaining recognition for foreign qualifications.
As Canada moves forward with its 2025-2027 immigration plans, more Express Entry draws are expected. Some future draws may target specific groups, such as French speakers or individuals with skills in high-demand sectors.
