Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has invited 345 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in the most recent Express Entry draw. The draw, held on October 7, required candidates to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 778. Additionally, candidates needed to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before 7:58 p.m. UTC on July 17, 2025, to be considered.
This draw marks the third Express Entry round in October alone, following the October 6 draw which issued 4,500 invitations to candidates with strong French-language proficiency, and the October 1 draw targeting Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants.
So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 70,683 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system. These ITAs have been broadly distributed across several categories, with PNP candidates receiving the majority. The breakdown of draws scheduled this year reveals that PNP-specific draws have occurred 18 times, followed by 10 draws for the CEC category, and 6 focused on French-language proficiency.
Additionally, category-based draws have included invitations to candidates in key sectors such as healthcare and social services (4 draws), education (2 draws), and trade occupations (1 draw), reflecting Canada’s evolving labour market needs.
Draws targeting PNP candidates typically require higher CRS scores due to the additional points awarded for nomination by a province or territory. These candidates receive a 600-point boost to their CRS score, significantly enhancing their chances of receiving an ITA.
Since category-based Express Entry draws were introduced, they have been a central mechanism for strategically selecting newcomers who match Canada’s labour force priorities and demographic goals. The continued focus on PNP candidates underscores the federal government’s collaboration with provincial immigration strategies.
As the year progresses, more draws are expected, and candidates hoping to receive an ITA should monitor updates closely. With Express Entry evolving to address sectoral and regional demands, those with provincial nominations or experience in priority occupations are likely to remain top contenders.
Stay updated with Maple News for ongoing coverage and analysis of Canada’s dynamic immigration system.