On February 4, IRCC issued 455 invitations to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in the 334th round of Express Entry. The draw requires applicants to submit their profiles before the deadline (by 19:39 UTC on December 7, 2024), with a CRS score of no less than 802.

Since July 2024, IRCC has gradually adjusted its draw strategy, focusing more on candidates who meet the criteria for PNP, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and other specific categories. This strategy adjustment aligns with the federal annual immigration plan and aims to attract applicants with relevant professional skills and language advantages in Canada. In 2025, IRCC is particularly focused on priority categories, including healthcare, skilled trades, and French language proficiency, to ensure that newly introduced talents can better serve the country’s economic and social development.

Overview of the Express Entry System

As Canada’s primary economic immigration management platform, the Express Entry system integrates the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants must first submit their profiles online, which are evaluated based on the CRS. The CRS score is based on factors such as the applicant’s education, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria. Candidates with higher CRS scores have a greater chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the draw and can submit a complete permanent resident (PR) application within 60 days after receiving an ITA.

The application process can be broken down into the following seven steps:

1. Confirm eligibility: Understand and ensure eligibility for one of the Express Entry-managed programs.
2. Prepare documents: Complete language tests, collect educational credentials, and other required documents.
3. Submit the candidate profile: Register and submit the personal profile on the IRCC website, where the system will assign a CRS score.
4. Wait in the candidate pool: After submission, applicants enter the pool and await selection based on IRCC’s draw strategy.
5. Submit complete application: After receiving an ITA, applicants must submit their complete PR application documents (including police certificates, proof of funds, medical reports, etc.) within 60 days.
6. Biometrics collection: If required, visit a designated location to collect biometric information.
7. Approval and landing: After IRCC processes the application and approves it, the applicant will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and the corresponding visa, and must complete the final landing procedures in Canada.

Through this draw and the subsequent improved application process, IRCC has not only optimized the mechanism for attracting skilled workers but also injected new vitality into Canada’s economic development and population structure optimization. Experts believe that this trend in the draws signals precise adjustments in Canada’s immigration policy, and more eligible applicants will have the opportunity to achieve their Canadian dream.

2025 Express Entry Invitation Summary