Canada Kicks Off 2025 with First Canadian Experience Class Draw

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has commenced 2025 by inviting a fresh batch of candidates to apply for permanent residency via the Express Entry system. On January 8, 1,350 invitations to apply (ITAs) were extended to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 542. This event marked the second draw of the week, closely following a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on January 7, which welcomed 471 applicants who needed a minimum CRS score of 793.

Recent data suggests a marginal slowdown in ITAs, with just 2,561 invitations in December, compared to over 5,000 ITAs issued in six draws in both October and November. In 2025, IRCC continues to follow a pattern of selecting candidates from categories inclusive of the Canadian Experience Class, Enhanced PNPs, and French-language proficiency. According to the current Immigration Levels Plan, the focus remains on individuals already residing in Canada and those possessing the skills necessary to support Canada’s labor market and demographic ambitions.

Under the “In-Canada Focus” allocation, IRCC is prioritizing local candidates, particularly those in the Canadian Experience Class and PNP categories, with potential invitations going to candidates from other Express Entry programs. In alignment with the “Federal Economic Priorities” allocation, substantial emphasis is being placed on healthcare and trades occupations, as well as candidates demonstrating French-language proficiency through category-based selections.

Express Entry, established in 2015, is a pivotal system managing three primary economic immigration programs: the CEC, the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). Enhanced nominations allow PNP candidates to participate in the Express Entry system. The introduction of category-based selections in 2023 empowered the IRCC to prioritize candidates based on professional expertise and language skills, helping align with national priorities.

This year, within the framework of the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the Express Entry programs collectively serve as the principal route for immigration, aiming to welcome 124,680 newcomers to Canada. Candidates aspiring for immigration must first submit a profile to qualify for one of Express Entry’s programs. Eligible candidates are scored according to the CRS, and if selected, they have 60 days to submit a permanent residency application. Successful applicants will gain Canadian PR status, allowing them to live and work in Canada indefinitely.

In summary, Canada has commenced its 2025 immigration intake with significant activity in the Express Entry system, reaffirming its commitment to inviting versatile candidates to strengthen the country’s workforce and demographic landscape.

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