IRCC conducts second Express Entry draw for PNP applicants

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended invitations to more candidates for permanent residence through its Express Entry system. On February 4, 2025, the IRCC issued 455 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

The candidates invited in this round were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 802. They also needed to have submitted their Express Entry profile by 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024. This marks the fourth draw of 2025, following previous rounds for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and another PNP draw earlier in January.

Express Entry Overview

The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary way of selecting skilled workers for permanent residence. It is a points-based system that manages three key immigration programs: the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

To begin the process, candidates must first determine their eligibility for at least one of these programs. Once eligible, they submit an online profile to the Express Entry pool, where they are given a CRS score based on their skills, work experience, education, and other factors. The highest-scoring candidates are selected during regular draws and invited to apply for permanent residence.

Priority Categories for 2025

In 2025, IRCC has announced that it will prioritize candidates in three categories:

1. Healthcare workers
2. Trades professionals
3. French-language speakers

This is part of Canada’s broader strategy to meet the country’s economic and demographic goals through immigration, as outlined in the annual Immigration Levels Plan.

How Does Express Entry Work?

The process begins when eligible candidates submit their profile. Based on their CRS score, candidates are ranked within the pool. IRCC conducts periodic draws and invites the highest-scoring individuals to apply for permanent residence. If you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application, including documents like a police clearance certificate and proof of funds.

Once your application is submitted, IRCC aims to process it within six months. If successful, you will receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), allowing you to complete the process by landing in Canada and officially becoming a permanent resident.

Step-by-Step Guide to Express Entry

1. Check Eligibility: Review the requirements for one of the three programs managed by Express Entry.
2. Submit Profile: Gather necessary documents, including language test results and Educational Credential Assessments (ECA), if needed.
3. Wait for Invitation: Stay in the pool until a draw takes place and you are selected based on your CRS score.
4. Apply for Permanent Residence: If invited, submit a complete application, including documents, within 60 days.
5. Provide Biometrics: If required, provide your biometrics to IRCC.
6. Wait for Decision: Once your application is processed, you will receive a COPR if approved, allowing you to land in Canada.