Canada Express Entry Draw – Latest Draws and News 2025

Canada Express Entry Draw 2025

Canada Express Entry Draw 2025

Canada’s Express Entry draw is a selection process where the government invites skilled workers to apply for permanent residence based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. It operates under three immigration programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Candidates create an Express Entry profile, and the system ranks them using factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Those with the highest scores receive invitations in periodic draws, which can be general or program-specific.

Understanding Express Entry draws is crucial if you’re planning to move to Canada. These draws determine your chances of securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. The frequency, minimum CRS score, and category-based selections directly impact applicants. Since the system evolves with changing immigration priorities, staying updated on the latest draws and trends is essential for a successful application.

In this blog, we’ll cover the latest Express Entry draws in 2025, including trends, minimum CRS scores, and any policy updates that might affect your chances. Whether you’re a new applicant or waiting for an ITA, this guide will help you navigate the process and boost your chances of success.

What is the Canada Express Entry Draw?

An Express Entry draw is your gateway to Canadian permanent residency. The Canadian government regularly holds these draws to invite the highest-ranking candidates from the Express Entry pool. Your ranking is based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. In 2024, Canada invited 3,500 candidates in its latest draw, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 491. If your score meets or exceeds the cutoff, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Understanding Express Entry draws helps you track your chances of immigration and take steps to improve your CRS score for future opportunities.

Who is eligible for Canadian Express Entry?

You may be eligible for Canada’s Express Entry if you have a university or college degree, skilled work experience, and a moderate proficiency in English and/or French. This program is designed for professionals like you who want to build a successful future in Canada. The best way to check your eligibility is through our free online assessment tool—it’s quick, easy, and gives you a clear path forward. Don’t leave your future to guesswork; take the first step today and see if you qualify for Express Entry. Your journey to Canada starts now!

How Does Express Entry Work?

 Canada, streamlining the immigration process through a merit-based system. It isn’t an immigration program itself but a selection system managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It evaluates candidates under four key economic programs:

  1. Federal Skilled Worker
  2. Federal Skilled Trades
  3. Canadian Experience Class
  4. Provincial Nominee Program (Partial)

Express Entry draws happen in two ways:

  1. General Draws – Selecting candidates based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
  2. Program-Specific Draws – Targeting candidates from a particular immigration program.

 

With Express Entry, your skills and experience can unlock exciting opportunities in Canada!

IRCC invites 7500 Express Entry candidates in second draw of the week

IRCC Issues 7,500 Invitations in Second Express Entry Draw This Week – CRS Score Drops to 379 in French-Language Draw.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its second Express Entry draw this week, issuing 7,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a French-language proficiency category-based selection round. This draw, held on March 19, 2025, marks the lowest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score (379) in over a year, since the February 29, 2024, draw.

Key Details of the Latest Draw

  1. Minimum CRS Requirement: 379
  2. Eligibility Criteria: Candidates needed French-language proficiency and had to submit their Express Entry profiles before March 6, 2025, at 2:53 AM UTC.
  3. Draw Type: Category-based selection (French-language ability)
  4. Total ITAs Issued in 2025 So Far: 30,683

Context & Trends

This is the fourth Express Entry draw in March 2025 and the second this week, following a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-specific draw on March 17 and earlier French-language draws. The most recent Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw took place on February 5, 2025, where 4,000 candidates received ITAs.

IRCC continues to prioritize French-speaking candidates and in-Canada applicants, aligning with Canada’s broader immigration strategy to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec and retain skilled temporary residents. This approach has been consistent since mid-2024, even as the new government under Prime Minister Mark Carney prepares to formalize immigration policies.

What This Means for Candidates

  1. French-Language Advantage: Strong French skills (with or without English proficiency) significantly improve chances of receiving an ITA, as seen in this historically low CRS requirement.
  2. Upcoming Draws Expected: More category-based draws (healthcare, STEM, trades, etc.) and general draws are anticipated in the coming weeks.
  3. Strategic Preparation: Candidates should consider improving language scores (French/English), gaining Canadian work experience, or exploring PNP pathways to enhance their CRS scores.

Political & Policy Outlook

While newly appointed Immigration Minister Rachel Bendayan has yet to receive a formal mandate letter, Prime Minister Carney has previously emphasized prioritizing in-Canada applicants and Francophone immigration. IRCC’s recent draws reflect this direction, suggesting continued support for French-language immigration and domestic talent retention.

Stay updated on future draws and CRS trends to maximize your chances of receiving an ITA in 2025!

New source: https://www.cicnews.com/2025/03/ircc-invites-more-express-entry-candidates-in-second-draw-of-the-week-0352984.html

Express Entry Draws 2025

Draw # Minimum CRS Score Required Date of Draw # of ITAs Issued
341 379 (*French language proficiency only) March 21, 2025 7,500
340 736 (*Provincial Nominee only) March 17, 2025 536
339 410 (*French language proficiency only) March 06, 2025 4,500
338 667 (*Provincial Nominee only) March 03, 2025 725
337 428 (*French language proficiency only) February 19, 2025 6,500
336 750 (*Provincial Nominee only) February 17, 2025 646
335 521 (*Canadian Experience Class only) February 5, 2025 4,000
334 455 (*Provincial Nominee only) February 04, 2025 802
333 527 (*Canadian Experience Class only) January 23, 2025 4,000
332 542 (*Canadian Experience Class only) January 8, 2025 1,350
331 793 (*Provincial nominees only) January 7, 2025 471

 

Express Entry Draws 2024

Draw # Minimum CRS Score Required Date of Draw # of ITAs Issued
330 727 (*Provincial nominees only) December 16, 2024 1,085
329 466 (*French language proficiency only) December 3, 2024 800
328 705 (*Provincial nominees only) December 2, 2024 676
327 463 (*Healthcare occupations only) November 20, 2024 3,000
326 539 (*Canadian Experience Class only) November 19, 2024 400
325 816 (*Provincial nominees only) November 18, 2024 174
324 478 (*French language proficiency only) November 15, 2024 800
323 547 (*Canadian Experience Class only) November 13, 2024 400
322 812 (*Provincial nominees only) November 12, 2024 733
321 433 (*Trade occupations only) October 23, 2024 1,800
320 539 (*Canadian Experience Class only) October 22, 2024 400
319 791 (*Provincial nominees only) October 21, 2024 648
318 444 (*French language proficiency only) October 10, 2024 1,000
317 539 (*Canadian Experience Class only) October 9, 2024 500
316 743 (*Provincial nominees only) October 7, 2024 1,613
315 509 (*Canadian Experience Class only) September 19, 2024 4,000
314 446 (*French language proficiency only) September 13, 2024 1,000
313 732 (*Provincial nominees only) September 9, 2024 911
312 507 (*Canadian Experience Class only) August 27, 2024 3,300
311 694 (*Provincial nominees only) August 26, 2024 1,121
310 394 (*French language proficiency only) August 15, 2024 2,000
309 509 (*Canadian Experience Class only) August 14, 2024 3,200
308 690 (*Provincial nominees only) August 13, 2024 763
307 510 (*Canadian Experience Class only) July 31, 2024 5,000
306 686 (*Provincial nominees only) July 30, 2024 964
305 400 (*French language proficiency only) July 18, 2024 1,800
304 515 (*Canadian Experience Class only) July 17, 2024 6,300
303 670 (*Provincial nominees only) July 16, 2024 1,391
302 420 (*French language proficiency only) July 8, 2024 3,200
301 445 (*Healthcare occupations only) July 5, 2024 3,750
300 436 (*Trades occupations only) July 4, 2024 1,800
299 739 (*Provincial nominees only) July 2, 2024 920
298 663 (*Provincial nominees only) June 19, 2024 1,499
297 522 (*Canadian Experience Class only) May 31, 2024 3,000
296 676 (*Provincial nominees only) May 30, 2024 2,985
295 410 (*French language proficiency only) April 24, 2024 1,400
294 529 (General) April 23, 2024 2,095
293 491 (*STEM occupations only) April 11, 2024 4,500
292 549 (General) April 10, 2024 1,280
291 338 (*French language proficiency only) March 26, 2024 1,500
290 524 (General) March 25, 2024 1,980
289 430 (*Transport occupations only) March 13, 2024 975
288 525 (General) March 12, 2024 2,850
287 336 (*French language proficiency only) February 29, 2024 2,500
286 534 (General) February 28, 2024 1,470
285 437 (*Agriculture and Agri-Food occupations only) February 16, 2024 150
284 422 (*Healthcare occupations only) February 14, 2024 3,500
283 535 (General) February 13, 2024 1,490
282 365 (*French language proficiency only) February 1, 2024 7,000
281 541 (General) January 31, 2024 730
280 543 (General) January 23, 2024 1,040
279 546 (General) January 10, 2024 1,510

 

Further Reading Suggestions
Canada Express Entry Malta Work Visa How to immigrate to Hong Kong from India
How to Find a Genuine Immigration Consultant Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) How to Get a Work Visa in Germany Without Any Sponsorship
Germany Job Seeker Visa Germany Opportunity Card Visa Free Countries for Indian
Jobs in USA for Indians Canada Provincial Nominee Programs Different Types of PR in Canada
Hong Kong Tourist Visa Tourist Visa for USA from India Sweden Work Permit Visa
Canada Tourist Visa from India

Express Entry Draws 2023

Draw # Minimum CRS Score Required Date of Draw # of ITAs Issued
278 386 (*Agriculture and Agri-Food occupations only) December 21, 2023 400
277 435 (*Transport occupations only) December 20, 2023 670
276 425 (*Trades occupations only) December 19, 2023 1,000
275 542 December 18, 2023 1,325
274 481 (*STEM occupations only) December 8, 2023 5,900
273 470 (*French language proficiency only) December 7, 2023 1,000
272 561 December 6, 2023 4,750
271 431 (*Healthcare occupations only) October 26, 2023 3,600
270 486 (*French language proficiency only) October 25, 2023 300
269 776 (*Provincial nominees only) October 24, 2023 1,548
268 500 October 10, 2023 3,725
267 354 (*Agriculture and Agri-Food occupations only) September 28, 2023 600
266 472 (*French language proficiency only) September 27, 2023 500
265 504 September 26, 2023 3,000
264 435 (*Transport occupations only) September 20, 2023 1,000
263 531 September 19, 2023 3,200
262 496 August 15, 2023 4,300
261 388 (*Trades occupations only) August 3, 2023 1,500
260 435 (*French language proficiency only) August 2, 2023 800
259 517 August 1, 2023 2,000
258 375 (*French language proficiency only) July 12th, 2023 3,800
257 505 July 11th, 2023 800
256 439 (*French language proficiency only) July 7th, 2023 2,300
255 463 (*Healthcare occupations only) July 6th, 2023 1,500
254 486 (*STEM occupations only) July 5th, 2023 500
253 511 July 4th, 2023 700
252 476 (*Healthcare occupations only) June 28, 2023 500
251 486 June 27, 2023 4,300
250 486 June 8, 2023 4,800
249 488 May 24, 2023 4,800
248 691 (*Provincial nominees only) May 10, 2023 589
247 483 April 26, 2023 3,500
246 486 April 12, 2023 3,500
245 481 March 29, 2023 7,000
244 484 March 23, 2023 7,000
243 490 March 15, 2023 7,000
242 748 (*Provincial nominees only) March 1, 2023 667
241 791 (*Provincial nominees only) February 15, 2023 699
240 489 (*Foreign Skilled Worker Program nominees only) February 2, 2023 3,300
239 733 (*Provincial nominees only) February 1, 2023 893
238 490 January 18, 2023 5,500
237 507 January 11, 2023 5,500

 

Express Entry Draws 2022

 

Draw # Minimum CRS Score Required Date of Draw # of ITAs Issued
236 491 November 23, 2022 4,750
235 494 November 9, 2022 4,750
234 496 October 26, 2022 4,750
233 500 October 12, 2022 4,250
232 504 September 28, 2022 3,750
231 510 September 14, 2022 3,250
230 516 August 31, 2022 2,750
229 525 August 17, 2022 2,250
228 533 August 3, 2022 2,000
227 542 July 20, 2022 1,750
226 557 July 6, 2022 1,500
225 752 (*Provincial nominees only) June 22, 2022 636
224 796 (*Provincial nominees only) June 8, 2022 932
223 741 (*Provincial nominees only) May 25, 2022 589
222 753 (*Provincial nominees only) May 11, 2022 545
221 772 (*Provincial nominees only) April 27, 2021 829
220 782 (*Provincial nominees only) April 13, 2021 787
219 785 (*Provincial nominees only) March 30, 2022 919
218 754 (*Provincial nominees only) March 16, 2022 924
217 761 (*Provincial nominees only) March 02, 2022 1,047
216 710 (*Provincial nominees only) February 16, 2022 1,082
215 674 (*Provincial nominees only) February 2, 2022 1,070
214 745 (*Provincial nominees only) January 19, 2022 1,036
213 808 (*Provincial nominees only) January 5, 2022 392

 

Express Entry Draws 2021

 

Draw # Minimum CRS Score Required Date of Draw # of ITAs Issued
212 720 (*Provincial nominees only) December 22, 2021 746
211 698 (*Provincial nominees only) December 10, 2021 1,032
210 737 (*Provincial nominees only) November 24, 2021 613
209 685 (*Provincial nominees only) November 10, 2021 775
208 744 (*Provincial nominees only) October 27, 2021 888
207 720 (*Provincial nominees only) October 13, 2021 681
206 742 (*Provincial nominees only) September 29, 2021 761
205 732 (*Provincial nominees only) September 15, 2021 521
204 462 (*Canadian Experience Class only) September 14, 2021 2,000
203 764 (*Provincial nominees only) September 1, 2021 635
202 403 (*Canadian Experience Class only) August 19, 2021 3,000
201 751 (*Provincial nominees only) August 18, 2021 463
200 404 (*Canadian Experience Class only) August 5, 2021 3,000
199 760 (*Provincial nominees only) August 4, 2021 512
198 357 (*Canadian Experience Class only) July 22, 2021 4,500
197 734 (*Provincial nominees only) July 21, 2021 462
196 369 (*Canadian Experience Class only) July 8, 2021 4,500
195 760 (*Provincial nominees only) July 7, 2021 627
194 357 (*Canadian Experience Class only) June 24, 2021 6,000
193 742 (*Provincial nominees only) June 23, 2021 1,002
192 368 (*Canadian Experience Class only) June 10, 2021 6,000
191 711 (*Provincial nominees only) June 9, 2021 940
190 380 (*Canadian Experience Class only) May 31, 2021 5,956
189 713 (*Provincial nominees only) May 26, 2021 500
188 397 (*Canadian Experience Class only) May 20, 2021 1,842
187 401 (*Canadian Experience Class only) May 13, 2021 4,147
186 752 (*Provincial nominees only) May 12, 2021 557
185 400 (*Canadian Experience Class only) April 29, 2021 6,000
184 717 (*Provincial nominees only) April 28, 2021 381
183 417 (*Canadian Experience Class only) April 16, 2021 6,000
182 753 (*Provincial nominees only) April 14, 2021 266
181 432 (*Canadian Experience Class only) April 1, 2021 5,000
180 778 (*Provincial nominees only) March 31, 2021 284
179 449 (*Canadian Experience Class only) March 18, 2021 5,000
178 682 (*Provincial nominees only) March 17, 2021 183
177 739 (*Provincial nominees only) March 8, 2021 671
176 75 (*Canadian Experience Class only) February 13, 2021 27,332
175 720 (*Provincial nominees only) February 10, 2021 654
174 454 (*Canadian Experience Class only) January 21, 2021 4,626
173 741 (*Provincial nominees only) January 20, 2021 374
172 461 (*Canadian Experience Class only) January 7, 2021 4,750
171 813 (*Provincial nominees only) January 6, 2021 250

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum score for Express Entry Canada?

To qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under Express Entry, you must score at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSWP eligibility grid. This grid evaluates factors like age, education, language proficiency (English/French), work experience, adaptability, and a valid job offer (if applicable). If you meet this threshold, you can submit an Express Entry profile and enter the pool, where you’ll be ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). However, scoring 67+ only makes you eligible—it doesn’t guarantee an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Higher CRS scores (typically 480+ in recent draws) are needed to receive an ITA during regular selection rounds.

2. How is Express Entry selected?

Candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked using the CRS, which awards up to 1,200 points based on core human capital factors (age, education, work experience, language skills), a spouse’s qualifications (if applicable), and additional points for a Provincial Nomination (600 points) or a valid Canadian job offer (50–200 points). IRCC conducts draws (usually biweekly) to invite top-ranking candidates. Draws can be general (all programs) or category-based (targeting specific skills like healthcare or trades). Your CRS score is dynamic—you can improve it by retaking language tests, gaining more experience, or securing a provincial nomination.

 

3. Can Express Entry be rejected?

Yes, even with a high CRS score, your application can be rejected if you fail to meet eligibility or admissibility requirements. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, misrepresentation (e.g., fake job offers), insufficient proof of funds, medical inadmissibility, or criminal records. Additionally, if your profile expires (after 12 months in the pool) without receiving an ITA, you’ll need to resubmit. Post-ITA refusals may occur if you can’t verify claims (e.g., education credentials) or miss deadlines. Always double-check your application against IRCC’s checklist before submission.

 

4. Is 490 a good CRS score?

A CRS score of 490 is competitive and historically above the cut-off for many general Express Entry draws. For example, 2023–24 draws often had cut-offs between 480–500 points. However, category-based draws (e.g., for STEM professions or French speakers) may have lower thresholds. If your score is 490, you’re likely to receive an ITA soon, but consider boosting it further with provincial nominations, improved language test results (CLB 10+), or Canadian work/study experience. Scores fluctuate based on draw frequency and applicant volume, so monitor trends via IRCC’s official updates.

 

5. How many points are needed for PR in Canada?

The minimum 67/100 points qualify you for the FSWP, but the actual CRS score required for PR varies. Recent all-program draws typically demand 480+ points, while targeted draws may go lower. The CRS evaluates education (up to 150 points for a PhD), language proficiency (max 160 for bilingualism), age (max 110 for 20–29-year-olds), work experience (max 80 for 5+ years), and adaptability (e.g., Canadian relatives, prior study/work in Canada). A Provincial Nomination (PNP) adds 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA. Use IRCC’s CRS calculator to estimate your score and strategize improvements.

 

6. Can I get Canada PR without Express Entry?

Yes, alternatives include Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which nominate candidates based on local labor needs (e.g., Alberta’s AINP or Ontario’s OINP), and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) for eastern provinces. Other options are Quebec’s Skilled Worker Program (requires French proficiency), Sponsorship (family or spouse), or Business Immigration (for investors/entrepreneurs). PNPs often have lower score requirements but may require a job offer or ties to the province. While Express Entry is faster (6-month processing), these programs suit those who don’t qualify for high CRS scores.

 

7. How long does Canada Express Entry take?

After receiving an ITA, 80% of Express Entry applications are processed within 6 months. However, timeline depends on document verification, medical exams, and background checks. Delays may occur if IRCC requests additional proof (e.g., employment records). Pre-ITA steps (language tests, credential assessments, and profile preparation) can add 3–6 months. For PNP-linked applications, provincial nomination processing (1–6 months) extends the total timeline. Always submit complete, accurate documents to avoid setbacks.

 

8. What is a good Express Entry score?

A CRS score of 500+ is considered strong, as most 2023–24 general draws had cut-offs below this. However, 470–500 remains competitive, especially for category-based draws (e.g., healthcare, trades, or French speakers). Younger applicants (20–29 years) with a master’s degree, CLB 9+ language scores, and 3+ years of skilled work experience often score 500+. If your score is lower, explore PNP pathways or boost points via Canadian education (up to 30 extra points) or a spouse’s credentials (e.g., language tests).

 

9. Do I need IELTS for Express Entry?

Yes, language tests are mandatory. For English, IELTS General Training or CELPIP-General are accepted; for French, TEF Canada or TCF Canada. Minimum requirements vary: CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0) for FSWP, but higher scores (CLB 9+/IELTS 7.0+) significantly boost CRS points. IELTS Academic/One Skill Retake aren’t valid. Bilingual candidates (English + French) earn extra points. Test results must be less than 2 years old when submitting your profile.

 

10. Is there an interview for Express Entry?

Interviews are rare for Express Entry (only requested if IRCC needs clarification). Most communication happens via your online account. However, other immigration streams (e.g., family sponsorship or Quebec programs) may require interviews. If contacted, prepare to verify details like work history or relationship authenticity. Ensure your documents are consistent to avoid red flags.

 

11. What are the four types of visas in Canada?

Canada’s main visa categories are:

  1. Study Permits: For enrollment at designated learning institutions (DLIs), often requiring proof of funds and acceptance letters.
  2. Work Permits: Employer-specific (LMIA-based) or open permits (e.g., PGWP for graduates).
  3. Visitor Visas: Temporary stays (tourism/business), with options for super visas (long-term visits for parents/grandparents).
  4. PR Visas: Permanent residency via Express Entry, PNPs, or family sponsorship, granting lifelong work/live rights.

Each has unique eligibility criteria and processing times.

 

 

12. Will Express Entry close?

No, Express Entry operates year-round, allowing profiles to be submitted anytime. However, program requirements (e.g., CRS cut-offs or eligible occupations) may change. For example, IRCC introduced category-based draws in 2023 to prioritize specific skills. Always check the latest updates on IRCC’s website to align your strategy with current policies.

 

13. Is Express Entry the same as permanent residency?

No—Express Entry is the application system, while PR is the status. Express Entry manages three programs: FSWP, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Receiving an ITA lets you apply for PR, which grants rights like healthcare access and a path to citizenship. PR status is permanent unless revoked for residency violations.

 

14. When are Express Entry draws held?

Draws typically occur every 2 weeks (often Wednesdays), but IRCC doesn’t announce dates in advance. All-program draws invite top CRS scorers, while category-based draws target sectors like healthcare or agriculture. Track trends via IRCC’s newsroom or tools like CanadaVisa’s draw tracker.

 

15. What is an Express Entry profile number?

After submitting your profile, IRCC assigns a unique profile number (starts with “E”) to identify your application. It’s used for correspondence and linking your profile to PNPs. Keep this number secure—you’ll need it for all updates or post-ITA steps.

 

16. Why is the Express Entry login not working?

Technical glitches are common due to high traffic or browser issues. Try:

  1. Clearing cache/cookies.
  2. Using Chrome/Firefox.
  3. Checking IRCC’s Twitter for outage alerts.
    If problems persist, contact IRCC’s web form support.

 

 

17. Can I apply for Express Entry without work experience?

No—all three Express Entry programs require at least 1 year of skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0–3). CEC demands Canadian experience, while FSWP accepts foreign experience. Unskilled roles (e.g., cashiers) don’t qualify. If lacking experience, consider PNPs with lower requirements or gaining eligible work first.

Neha Yadav About Neha Yadav
Neha Yadav is the Sr. HR Executive at Radvision World Consultancy Services LLP. 2.4 year of experience in Human resource & End to End Recruitment, revenue growth, top talent retention, and multi-industry IT & Non-IT Both operations to ultimately meet and exceed to hire top talent as per client expectations.