Canada’s Express Entry system has long been regarded as one of the most efficient immigration pathways in the world. For skilled workers, it represented a straightforward, merit-based approach to securing Permanent Residency (PR) and building a future in Canada. But as of 2025, significant changes have altered the dynamics of this system. If you’re wondering whether Express Entry is still your best option — or if you should be exploring alternative routes — this comprehensive guide will help you understand what’s happening now and what it means for your future in Canada.

 

1. The Immigration Landscape Has Changed: Lower Targets, Higher Competition

In a notable policy shift, Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan has revised immigration targets downward to 395,000 for 2025, 380,000 for 2026, and 365,000 for 2027. This is a steep drop from the ambitious 485,000 permanent resident admissions target set in 2024. The rationale? To ease pressure on Canada’s strained housing market and social infrastructure.

This change affects not just the total number of immigrants Canada plans to welcome, but also how those immigrants are selected. With fewer spots available, competition within Express Entry pools has become much fiercer, especially for candidates outside of Canada.

 

2. Express Entry Now Prioritizes In-Canada Candidates

One of the most significant trends in 2025 is the increased emphasis on selecting candidates already residing in Canada, particularly those eligible under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The May 13, 2025, CEC-specific draw is a telling example: only 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was an incredibly high 547.

What does this mean for candidates applying from overseas? It means Express Entry is becoming less accessible to them — unless they already have Canadian experience, are fluent in French, or fall into high-demand job categories.

 

3. The Rise of Category-Based Draws

While all-program and CEC draws continue, category-based selection has emerged as a cornerstone of the new Express Entry system. Introduced in mid-2023, category-based draws allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to target candidates based on specific skills, language abilities, or work experience.

In 2025, these categories include:

• French-language proficiency
• Healthcare occupations
• STEM occupations
• Trade occupations
• Transport occupations
• Agriculture and agri-food occupations

The March 21, 2025, draw focusing on French-speaking candidates issued 7,500 ITAs with a relatively low CRS cut-off of 379. Such draws offer opportunities for candidates who may not have extremely high CRS scores but meet specific Canadian labor market needs.

If you fall under one of these categories, your odds of receiving an ITA are considerably higher, even with a CRS score as low as 360–380 in some draws.

 

4. The Decline of Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws

Another substantial shift has been the reduced reliance on Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). While PNPs were once key in helping provinces address local labor shortages, the number of invitations through these programs has dropped significantly.

In 2024, the PNP target was 110,000, but by 2025, that number has been halved to 55,000. The impact? Fewer opportunities for nomination, particularly for those applying from abroad. Combined with the already competitive CRS environment, this reduction limits the pathways for many would-be immigrants.

 

5. No More Bonus Points for Job Offers

In a bold move to level the playing field and curb fraudulent practices, IRCC eliminated the additional CRS points previously awarded for valid job offers (which ranged from 50 to 200 points). This change came into effect in March 2025.

While the intention behind this change is to create fairness in the system, it has undoubtedly made it more challenging for candidates to boost their CRS scores through employment alone. For genuine employers and candidates, this means more effort must be placed on other factors like language scores, education, or gaining Canadian work experience.

 

6. What Does the Future Hold? Predicting Upcoming Draws

Based on current patterns, the next Express Entry draw is likely to take place between May 27 and May 30, 2025. Here’s what candidates can expect:

• Category: Likely to focus on French-language proficiency or healthcare occupations
• CRS Cut-Off (Estimated):
  • French Proficiency: 360–380
  • Healthcare: 490–510
  • Trades: Around 450
• ITAs Expected: Between 500 and 2,000 depending on the category

These numbers reinforce the idea that unless you’re part of a targeted category, you may be waiting a long time — or indefinitely — for an invitation in 2025.

 

7. Is a CRS Score of 400 Still Competitive in 2025?

Realistically, a CRS score of 400 is no longer competitive for general draws. It may occasionally suffice for category-based selections — such as French-speaking candidates or those in agricultural roles — but only if the draw volume is high.

For most candidates, this means that without additional qualifications or targeted expertise, the path to PR through Express Entry is longer and more uncertain.

So what can you do?

• Improve your French — even basic proficiency could open doors.
• Switch careers to an in-demand sector — consider training in healthcare, trades, or agriculture.
• Gain Canadian experience — through work permits or study permits.
• Explore PNPs carefully — some provinces may still nominate low-CRS applicants with strong ties.

 

8. ICC Immigration: Your Trusted Guide Through a Shifting System

At ICC Immigration, we understand how confusing and stressful immigration can be — especially when the rules change so quickly. Our mission is to simplify the process and give you the best shot at building your future in Canada.

We specialize in:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Expert navigation of Express Entry, category-based draws, and remaining PNP pathways.
• Work Permits and Study Permits: Strategic temporary solutions that lead to permanent residency.
• Family Sponsorship: Helping families reunite and thrive in Canada.
• Professional Immigration Advice: Honest assessments and customized strategies — no false promises.

Unlike risky asylum applications, which can jeopardize your status and limit your rights, our strategies are designed to offer long-term security and lawful pathways to PR.

Whether you’re inside or outside Canada, ICC Immigration provides personalized, up-to-date guidance to help you succeed. We stay ahead of policy shifts so you don’t have to.

 

Conclusion: Is Express Entry Still Worth It?

Express Entry in 2025 is no longer the golden ticket it once was — at least not for everyone. With reduced immigration targets, a focus on in-Canada applicants, and the rise of targeted draws, the system now favors individuals with specific skills, experience, or language abilities.

That said, opportunities still exist. With the right guidance, preparation, and possibly a strategic shift in career or study plans, you can still achieve your Canadian dream.

If you’re unsure where to begin or how to adjust your immigration strategy in this new environment, contact ICC Immigration today. Let us help you turn confusion into clarity — and ambition into action.