Canada has officially kicked off its 2025 immigration efforts with a significant step forward. On January 7th, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the first Express Entry draw of the year, offering new opportunities for skilled professionals to become part of Canada’s thriving workforce. This year promises to bring even more excitement for hopeful candidates.
Also Read Express Entry Kicks Off the Year with 471 ITAs for PNP Candidates
What’s New in 2025?
The 2025 Express Entry program will see continued emphasis on attracting professionals with expertise in healthcare, skilled trades, and French-language proficiency. Canada’s immigration priorities align with growing sectors in need of skilled labor to fuel its economy, and Express Entry is the main channel for fulfilling this demand.
Details of the Draw
- Date: January 7, 2025
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Total ITAs Issued: 471 Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- Minimum CRS Score: 793
- Category Focus: PNP candidates, continuing the trend of provincial nominations for skilled workers
A Look Back at 2024
The year 2024 saw a steady flow of Express Entry draws, with a focus on skilled professionals in healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency. The PNP draws played a major role, and it’s expected that 2025 will follow a similar path as Canada continues to prioritize candidates who can contribute to the country’s economy.
Also Read
- New Brunswick Issues 326 Immigration ITAs in February DrawsNew Brunswick has announced the results of its early February 2026 provincial nomination rounds, highlighting a continued preference for candidates who are already connected to
- Ontario Secures Larger Immigration Share for 2026Ontario will have more room to nominate economic immigrants in 2026 after the federal government confirmed a higher allocation under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Alberta Begins 2026 with Major Immigration Draws, Issues 1,169 ITAsAlberta has opened its 2026 immigration calendar with a strong start, issuing more than 1,100 invitations to prospective immigrants through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
- Canada Sets a New Express Entry Record with Massive French-Speaking DrawCanada’s immigration system reached a new milestone in 2026 as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the largest category-based Express Entry draw ever recorded.
- British Columbia Launches 2026 Immigration Draw With 400+ ITAsBritish Columbia has officially begun its 2026 provincial immigration selection cycle, issuing a new round of invitations under its Skills Immigration pathway. The first draw

























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































