Canada’s Express Entry system underwent a major transformation in 2025, marking a significant departure from its traditional all-program draws. For the first time since its inception in 2015, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has paused all program draws in favour of a more focused, targeted approach. This shift has reshaped how candidates are selected for Permanent Residency (PR) and what strategies applicants must adopt moving forward.

The End of All-Program Draws

Historically, Express Entry conducted biweekly all-program draws, inviting candidates from the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). However, since the start of 2025, no all-program draws have occurred. Instead, IRCC has prioritized:

• French language proficiency draws
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws
• Occupation-specific draws
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws (until February 5, 2025)

This change aligns with Canada’s evolving immigration priorities, emphasizing labour shortages, economic integration, and regional development.

2025 Express Entry Draw Trends: Key Numbers

From January 1 to May 2, 2025, IRCC conducted 15 draws, issuing a total of 33,404 Invitations to Apply (ITAs):

• French-speaking candidates: 3 draws, 18,500 ITAs
• CEC candidates: 3 draws, 9,350 ITAs
• PNP candidates: 5 draws, 3,632 ITAs
• Occupation-specific draws (healthcare and education): 2 draws, 1,500 ITAs

The largest draw was on March 21, inviting 7,500 French-speaking applicants with a CRS cut-off of 379—the lowest this year. In contrast, PNP draws continue to have high CRS thresholds, typically above 700, due to the 600-point boost from provincial nominations.

Why Canada Paused All-Program Draws

Several factors contributed to this policy shift:

1. Reduced Immigration Targets: Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan cut PR admissions from 485,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025. This decision reflects growing domestic concerns around housing affordability, healthcare strain, and economic sustainability.
2. Focus on Targeted Immigration: Introduced in 2023, category-based draws target candidates with in-demand skills (e.g., healthcare, education, skilled trades), French language ability, or provincial nominations.
3. Economic and Political Pressures: Public debates around immigration’s impact on infrastructure and the economy have pressured the government to adopt a more selective and regionally aligned approach.

Who Benefits and Who Is Left Waiting?

Winners:

• French-speaking candidates: With lower CRS cut-offs and more ITAs, bilingual applicants now have a major advantage.
• PNP nominees: Although nomination quotas have decreased, those nominated are nearly guaranteed an ITA due to the 600-point CRS boost.
• In-demand occupations: Roles in healthcare, trades, and education are seeing dedicated draws, offering new opportunities.

Challenges:

• High CRS scorers without other advantages: Candidates scoring 450–500 but lacking Canadian experience, French ability, or a PNP nomination now face limited options.
• CEC candidates: While they were briefly prioritized, no draws have occurred since February 5, 2025.

Is the CRS Score Expected to Drop in 2025?

Yes. Recent changes, such as the reduction or elimination of job offer points, could cause CRS cut-offs to decline in category-based draws. The most recent draw had a CRS cut-off of 763, reflecting a PNP draw, which skews the average higher due to the additional nomination points.

What Can You Do to Improve Your Chances?

To stay competitive, Express Entry candidates should adapt to this new reality:

• Learn French: Opens up access to low-threshold draws.
• Gain Canadian work experience: Enhances eligibility for CEC draws.
• Pursue a provincial nomination: Essential in the absence of all-program draws.
• Target high-demand sectors: Especially in healthcare, education, and trades.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s evolving immigration landscape can be challenging. ICC Immigration is committed to guiding individuals through the most effective and secure pathways to achieve their Canadian dream.

Our expert services include:

✅ Permanent Residency Applications: Tailored assistance for Express Entry, PNPs, and other pathways to ensure efficient and compliant applications.

✅ Work and Study Permits: We help you explore temporary options that can transition into PR opportunities.

✅ Family Sponsorships: Whether you’re uniting with a spouse, child, or parent, we streamline the sponsorship process.

✅ Expert Legal Guidance: Our licensed immigration professionals ensure full compliance with Canadian laws, maximizing your success rate.

Instead of risking uncertain asylum routes, ICC Immigration offers strategic, authorized support to help you confidently build a future in Canada.

Conclusion

Canada’s Express Entry system has entered a new era in 2025, shifting from broad all-program draws to highly focused selection strategies. This transition is designed to meet pressing economic, social, and regional needs. While the change narrows the path for some, it opens new and rewarding opportunities for those who adapt wisely.

Adapt, strategize, and consult trusted immigration professionals like ICC Immigration to make the most of Canada’s dynamic immigration system.