The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has started 2025 with significant activity in its Express Entry system, focusing on inviting skilled candidates to apply for permanent residency. Two draws in the first week highlight Canada’s approach to addressing labor market needs.
Also Read IRCC Issues New Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draws on 8th January
Details of the Draws
January 8, 2025:
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 1,350
- Minimum CRS Score: 542
January 7, 2025:
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 471
- Minimum CRS Score: 793
Targeted Immigration in 2025
This year, IRCC is prioritizing healthcare, trades, and French-language candidates, aligning with Canada’s labor market goals. These category-based selections aim to facilitate smoother pathways for skilled professionals.
Path to Permanent Residency
Express Entry remains Canada’s primary economic immigration system. Candidates submit profiles, receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and, if selected, have 60 days to apply for PR. In 2025, the IRCC plans to welcome over 124,000 new residents through this streamlined system.
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- Quebec Holds PSTQ Draws With 2,555 ITAs Across Skilled Worker CategoriesQuebec has continued its aggressive skilled immigration strategy by conducting another large-scale invitation round under the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). On April 30, 2026,
- Canada Holds First Express Entry Draw of May 2026 for Provincial NomineesCanada has started May 2026 with another targeted Express Entry invitation round focused on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, continuing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s
- British Columbia Holds Draws with New ITAs for Skilled Workers and Business InvestorsThe British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program has launched another round of targeted immigration invitations in May 2026, focusing heavily on sectors facing long-term labour shortages
- New Brunswick Prioritises Key Workers and Francophone Talent in Latest DrawNew Brunswick has carried out another major round of immigration invitations, selecting hundreds of foreign workers and skilled candidates through provincial and regional pathways during





























































































































































































































































































































































