Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a new category-based Express Entry draw, targeting skilled professionals in healthcare and social services. On June 4, 2025, the department issued 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in these high-demand sectors.
To be eligible for this round, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 504 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before 6:47 a.m. UTC on March 31, 2025. This is the second draw held this year specifically focused on healthcare and social services occupations under the updated Express Entry category system.
This draw follows a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on June 2 and is part of IRCC’s broader strategy to address labor shortages across Canada, especially in key public service areas. Healthcare professionals and social support workers continue to be critical to Canada’s immigration priorities.
So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 35,217 ITAs through the Express Entry system. These invitations span several dedicated categories, including the PNP, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, and education-focused streams.
Data collected by Maple News shows that the majority of this year’s Express Entry draws have favored PNP applicants, with 10 draws conducted for this group. In contrast, there have been four draws for CEC candidates, three targeting French speakers, two for healthcare and social services roles, and one specifically for education professionals.
Here’s a summary of 2025’s category-based breakdown:
– Provincial Nominee Program: 10 draws
– Canadian Experience Class: 4 draws
– French-language proficiency: 3 draws
– Healthcare and Social Services: 2 draws
– Education: 1 draw
Express Entry profiles remain active for up to one year, though receiving an invitation can sometimes take longer depending on the candidate pool and immigration priorities. The streamlined system is designed to allow Canada to adjust its skilled immigration intake swiftly based on the country’s evolving labor market needs.
Healthcare and social services professionals aiming for Canadian permanent residency are strongly encouraged to ensure their credentials, language scores, and Express Entry profiles are up to date to remain competitive in upcoming draws.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on all updates related to Express Entry and category-based immigration advancements.