Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently sent out a total of 8,036 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency in Canada. These invitations were issued through two separate Express Entry draws held in March 2025. Canada is actively trying to attract skilled workers, especially those with French language skills and provincial nominations.
French Language Skilled Workers Draw – March 21, 2025
On March 21, 2025, IRCC invited 7,500 candidates who are fluent in French. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 379. The Express Entry system uses CRS scores to rank candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.
The tie-breaking rule for this draw was set at March 6, 2025. This means candidates who created their Express Entry profiles before this date were given priority.
IRCC has recently been giving extra attention to French-speaking skilled workers. Similar draws have taken place over the past months, proving Canada’s commitment to increasing the French-speaking population outside Quebec.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draw – March 17, 2025
Earlier, on March 17, 2025, IRCC issued 536 ITAs specifically for candidates nominated by Canadian provinces. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum CRS score of 736. Provincial nominations greatly boost candidates’ CRS scores by adding 600 extra points, significantly increasing their chances of being invited.
The tie-breaking date for this draw was March 12, 2025. This means candidates who had profiles before this date were prioritized.
CRS Score Distribution and Predictions
The CRS scores of candidates currently in the Express Entry pool show a large number of applicants (70,055) with scores between 451 and 500. Experts believe that CRS cutoff scores for future draws, especially for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), could drop below 500 by the summer of 2025.
There are also predictions that cutoff scores may decrease to around 490 points by late spring 2025, depending on how frequently IRCC holds draws.
Tips for Improving Your Express Entry Chances
If you haven’t received an invitation yet, don’t worry. Here are some practical steps you can take to increase your CRS score and improve your chances of receiving an ITA:
- Boost Your Language Scores: Try to improve your scores on language tests like IELTS or CELPIP. Better language scores can increase your CRS by 20-30 points.
- Gain Canadian Work Experience: Working in Canada helps increase your CRS score, especially if you’re eligible under the Canadian Experience Class.
- Consider Provincial Nominee Programs: Apply to a provincial nominee program. A provincial nomination adds 600 points, greatly increasing your chances.
- Regularly Update Your Profile: Keep your Express Entry profile updated and accurate to avoid losing points due to mistakes or outdated information.
Summary of All Express Entry Draws in 2025
Here’s a quick summary of the latest Express Entry draws in 2025:
| Date | Type of Draw | ITAs Issued | Minimum CRS Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 21, 2025 | French Language Skilled Workers | 7,500 | 379 |
| March 17, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program | 536 | 736 |
| March 6, 2025 | French Language Skilled Workers | 4,500 | 410 |
| March 3, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program | 725 | 667 |
| February 19, 2025 | French Language Skilled Workers | 6,500 | 428 |
| February 17, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program | 646 | 750 |
Conclusion
Canada’s recent Express Entry draws highlight the country’s strong desire to attract skilled workers. Whether you speak French fluently or have a provincial nomination, Canada provides many opportunities for skilled workers to achieve permanent residency. Keep improving your CRS scores, stay informed, and regularly update your Express Entry profile for the best chances of success.