Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently issued a fresh batch of invitations to apply (ITA) through the Express Entry system, stirring excitement among potential immigrants. On May 13, 2025, the immigration department extended 500 ITAs specifically to candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw.
To qualify for this draw, candidates were required to meet two essential criteria:
- A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 547;
- Creating an Express Entry candidate profile before 5:26 p.m. Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on May 21, 2024.
See your eligibility for all Express Entry streams
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 13 | Canadian Experience Class | 500 | 547 |
| May 12 | Provincial Nominee Program | 511 | 706 |
| May 2 | Healthcare and social services | 500 | 510 |
| May 1 | Education | 1,000 | 479 |
| April 28 | Provincial Nominee Program | 421 | 727 |
| April 14 | Provincial Nominee Program | 825 | 764 |
| March 21 | French language proficiency | 7,500 | 379 |
| March 17 | Provincial Nominee Program | 536 | 736 |
| March 6 | French language proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
| March 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 725 | 667 |
| February 19 | French language proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
| February 17 | Provincial Nominee Program | 646 | 750 |
| February 5 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 521 |
| February 4 | Provincial Nominee Program | 455 | 802 |
| January 23 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 527 |
| January 8 | Canadian Experience Class | 1,350 | 542 |
| January 7 | Provincial Nominee Program | 471 | 793 |
As of now, the May 13 draw marks the fourth of the month, following other draws focused on healthcare and education categories, as well as Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. In total, IRCC has issued an impressive 34,440 ITAs through the Express Entry system in 2025, highlighting a surge in immigration activity.
This year’s Express Entry draws have shown a distinct focus, primarily targeting PNP candidates, while still providing opportunities for CEC candidates and those with French-language proficiency. Here’s a quick overview of the draw types so far:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 8 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 4 |
| French-language proficiency | 3 |
| Education | 1 |
| Healthcare and social services | 1 |
Canada’s New Immigration Minister
The latest draw also signifies the final candidate selection under the previous Immigration Minister, Rachel Bendayan. Following the recent cabinet shuffle by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada’s new Immigration Minister, Lena Metlege Diab, was appointed on May 13. This transition in leadership is expected to influence the trajectory of future immigration policies.
With Minister Diab at the helm, the Canadian government is prepared to implement several immigration policies that align with Prime Minister Carney’s vision. Notable upcoming initiatives include:
- A stabilization of new permanent resident levels to 1% of Canada’s population by 2027;
- Increased immigration levels for francophones;
- A revamp of the Global Talent Stream (GTS) to attract top talent to Canada;
- A reduction in the number of temporary residents (work and study permit holders).
More details on these new immigration strategies are anticipated, particularly with the issuance of Minister Diab’s governmental mandate letter, which will provide further clarity on the government’s roadmap for the future of Canada’s immigration landscape.
