Canada continues to position itself as a global leader in attracting skilled international talent, and 2025 Express Entry draws are reflecting that ambition with unprecedented volume and lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off scores.
In the first quarter of 2025, IRCC issued over 110,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system — the highest quarterly total on record. The Federal Skilled Worker Programme, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Programme all saw increased draw sizes, while category-based selection draws continued to target healthcare workers, education professionals, and French-language speakers.
CRS scores for all-programme draws have hovered between 481 and 510, compared to highs of over 560 seen during the COVID-era backlog. For many applicants who had previously been told their scores were too low, this represents a genuine opportunity.
Key changes introduced in 2025 also include the expanded points awarded for a valid provincial nomination, which now add 600 points to a candidate CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw. Provincial Nominee Programmes across British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan have all launched new occupation-specific streams.
Applicants are advised to keep their Express Entry profiles up to date, ensure all documents — including Educational Credential Assessments and language test results — remain valid, and monitor the IRCC website for draw announcements. Profiles expire after 12 months if an ITA is not received.
Akopwhales Global Services has successfully guided hundreds of clients through the Express Entry process and offers a free eligibility assessment to help you understand where you stand.