6,500 Candidates Invited in IRCC’s First Category-Based Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another Express Entry draw, inviting 6,500 candidates under the French-proficiency category. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 428 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before 4:41 PM Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on February 10, 2025.

This marks the fourth Express Entry draw of the month, following two Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws and one Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw earlier in February. In total, IRCC has issued 11,601 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) this month.

So far in 2025, the majority of Express Entry draws have focused on candidates under the CEC and PNP streams, aligning with IRCC’s goal to meet its 2025-2026 immigration targets. The department’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027 allocates 82,890 admissions for candidates under the “In-Canada Focus” category, which includes CEC and PNP applicants.

Latest Draw Details 

• Draw Date: February 19, 2025
• Draw Type: French Language Proficiency 
• Number of Invitations: 6,500
• Minimum CRS Score Required: 428

Express Entry Draws List

Overview of Express Entry

Express Entry is a system that manages three of Canada’s main economic immigration programs:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Newcomers eligible for one of these programs must submit a profile to be entered into the Express Entry pool. They are then assigned a CRS score based on factors like skills, work experience, and language abilities. Candidates with higher CRS scores have a better chance of receiving an ITA.

Once an ITA is issued, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence (PR) application, including additional documents like police clearance certificates and proof of funds, depending on the individual’s circumstances. After the PR application is submitted, IRCC aims to process it within six months. If successful, applicants can receive PR status and must land in Canada to finalize the process.

Understanding ITAs and Landings

It is important to distinguish between ITAs and landings (or admissions). An ITA allows an Express Entry candidate to apply for permanent residency, while a landing refers to a newcomer’s official arrival in Canada after receiving approval and a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). The Immigration Levels Plan outlines targets for landings, not ITAs.

Ways to Improve Your CRS Score

For candidates aiming to boost their CRS score and increase their chances of receiving an ITA, here are some key strategies:

• Securing a Provincial Nomination: A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, almost guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw. Express Entry candidates can apply for provincial nominations through enhanced nomination programs.

• Enhancing Language Proficiency: Language skills significantly impact CRS scores, potentially adding up to 310 points. Candidates with a spouse or partner can gain up to 320 points based on combined language scores and other factors.

• Choosing the Right Principal Applicant: If an accompanying spouse or partner has a higher CRS score, switching the principal applicant could improve the overall chances of receiving an ITA. Couples can also submit separate Express Entry profiles to maximize opportunities.

• Earning Additional Education Credentials: Education can contribute up to 200 points for foreign degrees and 250 points for Canadian credentials. Those with international degrees can benefit from an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to earn CRS points.

• Gaining More Work Experience: Both Canadian and foreign work experience can increase CRS scores. Candidates should ensure their work history is well-documented to maximize points.

With continued draws throughout the year, Express Entry candidates should actively seek ways to enhance their profiles and stay competitive in the system.

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