Express Entry: Canada Invites Health Workers in First Category Draw of December / December 12, 2025

Express Entry: Canada Invites Health Workers in First Category Draw of December

Canada sent out 1,000 immigration invitations on December 10 to workers in health care and social services, continuing its effort to bring skilled professionals into the country through the Express Entry system.

Canada continued its immigration push on December 10 with a new Express Entry draw. Immigration officials issued 1,000 invitations to candidates working in health care and social services. The draw marked the first category-based selection of December and highlighted the country’s need for frontline workers.

Candidates needed a minimum score of 476 to receive an invitation. They also had to submit their Express Entry profile before 7:44 a.m. UTC on November 26, 2025. Officials used these criteria to manage demand and ensure fairness among applicants.

A Busy Start to December

This draw followed several major selections earlier this month. On December 8, officials held the largest provincial nominee draw of the year. Two days later, they ran a massive Canadian Experience Class draw. A large French-language draw also took place in late November.

Together, these draws made the past few weeks one of the busiest periods this year. Immigration officials issued thousands of invitations within a short time. The recent activity showed strong momentum before the year ends.

Healthcare Remains a Priority

Health care and social services continue to rank high among priority occupations. Canada faces ongoing worker shortages in hospitals, long-term care homes, and community services. Officials have repeatedly used category-based draws to address these gaps.

This December draw marked the sixth healthcare-focused selection of the year. Earlier healthcare draws invited between 500 and 4,000 candidates each. Cut-off scores varied, reflecting changing demand and application volumes.

Express Entry Numbers So Far in 2025

So far this year, Canada has issued 106,599 invitations through Express Entry. Provincial nominee draws made up the largest share. Canadian Experience Class and French-language draws also played major roles.

Healthcare and social services candidates received more than 13,500 invitations this year. Education and skilled trade draws appeared less often. Officials limited those selections to specific labour needs.

Draw Types Show Clear Pattern

Officials have relied heavily on provincial nominations in 2025. These draws accounted for the highest number of selections. Canadian Experience Class draws followed closely behind.

French-speaking candidates also received strong attention. This approach supports bilingual communities across the country. Category-based draws for health workers showed consistent use throughout the year.

What This Means for Applicants

The latest draw confirmed Canada’s focus on targeted immigration. Candidates in priority fields continue to benefit from lower score requirements. Health care workers remain well positioned in the system.

Officials have not announced upcoming draw dates. However, recent activity suggests more selections may follow soon. Many candidates continue to monitor their scores closely.

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