IRCC Invites More PNP Candidates Through Express Entry

Canada’s immigration department has issued more invitations to apply (ITAs) under the Express Entry system. A total of 646 candidates received invitations in a recent Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw. To qualify, applicants needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750 and had to create an Express Entry profile before 5:41 p.m. UTC on July 23, 2024.

This draw is the third one this month. Earlier, on February 4, 455 candidates were invited in another PNP draw, while a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on February 5 issued 4,000 invitations.

Since the beginning of 2025, Canada has focused its Express Entry draws on either PNP or CEC candidates. The CEC draw sizes have returned to the larger selections seen in 2024. However, there have been no category-based draws for French speakers, healthcare workers, or tradespeople. These groups were set as priority categories for Express Entry in 2025. According to Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, 41,700 permanent resident landings have been allocated to these categories this year.

Express Entry Draws in 2025

Here is a summary of the latest Express Entry draws this year:

• February 17 – PNP draw: 646 invitations, CRS score 750
• February 5 – CEC draw: 4,000 invitations, CRS score 521
• February 4 – PNP draw: 455 invitations, CRS score 802
• January 23 – CEC draw: 4,000 invitations, CRS score 527
• January 8 – CEC draw: 1,350 invitations, CRS score 542
• January 7 – PNP draw: 471 invitations, CRS score 793

Should You Enter the Express Entry Pool With a Low CRS Score?

Many candidates hesitate to enter the Express Entry pool if their CRS score is low. However, experts suggest that being in the pool can increase the chances of receiving an ITA. Here’s why:

1. CRS scores change frequently. A low score today may become enough in the future as score requirements fluctuate.
2. The tie-breaking rule matters. Express Entry draws include candidates who created their profiles before a set date. Entering early increases the chances of getting invited in a future draw.
3. Your CRS score can improve. If you gain more work experience, improve your language skills, or complete higher education, your score will increase automatically without needing a new profile.
4. Other immigration pathways may open up. Being in the pool allows candidates to qualify for additional programs like PNP streams and regional pilot programs.