News

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has closed out 2025 with a strong signal for candidates hoping to get selected in one of the Canada Express Entry CEC draws. In its latest draw, IRCC issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), marking the largest CEC-specific draw in over 16 months.

Eligibility and CRS Requirements

Candidates in this round needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 520 and must have created their Express Entry profile before 5:30 p.m. UTC on July 15, 2025. While a CRS of 520 remains competitive, this draw breaks the recent gridlock where CRS scores stayed at 533–534 for the previous five CEC draws, offering renewed opportunities for many candidates.

Other Express Entry Draws in 2025

This Canada Express Entry CEC draw on December 10 follows several high-volume and targeted draws. Two days prior, IRCC conducted the largest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw of the year, and in late November, thousands of invitations were issued to French-language proficiency candidates. These back-to-back draws reflect a deliberate push to accelerate admissions before the year-end.

Trends in Express Entry Draws

Throughout 2025, Express Entry has prioritized targeted draws over general invitations. PNP draws dominated in frequency, while CEC, French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, education, and trade streams made up the remainder. Despite fewer overall draws, CEC remains one of the top streams in total ITAs issued, second only to the French-language category.

2025 Express Entry Numbers and Insights

As of this draw, IRCC has issued 105,599 ITAs through Express Entry in 2025. A large portion went to candidates with Canadian work experience, emphasizing the government’s preference for applicants already integrated into the labour market. This approach aligns with Canada’s goals of economic integration and retention of skilled talent.

Advice for CEC Candidates

For candidates still in the Express Entry pool, this Canada Express Entry CEC draw demonstrates the importance of patience and preparation. CRS scores fluctuate, and large draws can happen suddenly. Candidates near the recent cut-offs should ensure their profiles are accurate, up to date, and optimized to maximize their chances of receiving an ITA.

Looking Ahead to 2026

If this momentum continues into 2026, Canada Express Entry CEC draw applicants can expect more consistent opportunities after a year of high CRS thresholds and limited invitations. For many skilled workers already in Canada, the coming year could bring new pathways to permanent residence through Express Entry.

Need Expert Guidance?

Navigating the Express Entry system can be complex. Working with an experienced immigration advisor can help you strategize, improve your CRS score, and avoid common mistakes that delay your permanent residence application. Start your journey to Canada today and turn your work experience into a pathway to permanent residency.