Canada Issues 6,000 CEC Invitations in Largest Express Entry Draw in Over 16 Months

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has carried out another significant round of invitations through the Express Entry system, issuing 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This latest draw marks a major moment for CEC applicants, as it is the largest CEC-specific draw held in more than 16 months.

To qualify for this round, candidates were required to meet the following criteria:

• Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score: 520
• Express Entry profile submission: Before 5:30 p.m. UTC on July 15, 2025

Latest Draw Details 

• Draw Date: December 10, 2025
• Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class
• Number of Invitations: 6,000
• Minimum CRS Score Required: 520

Express Entry Draws List

This draw is particularly notable because it breaks the pattern of consistently high CRS cut-off scores 533 or 534 which had remained unchanged for the last five CEC rounds. The lower cut-off and high invitation numbers offer renewed hope for many applicants with Canadian work experience.

This is the second Express Entry draw of December and follows several major rounds in recent weeks, including:

• The biggest PNP draw of the year on December 8
• A large French-language proficiency draw on November 28
• Another CEC draw held on November 26
  

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 105,599 ITAs across all Express Entry categories.

Throughout the year, the focus of Express Entry has largely leaned toward Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. The remaining invitations have gone to candidates under the CEC, French-language category, and other priority occupation categories identified by IRCC.

Express Entry Draws in 2025

ITAs Issued in 2025 by Stream

This substantial CEC draw highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to selecting skilled workers with strong local experience and supports the country’s long-term immigration and labour market goals. If you’re aiming to apply under the CEC or any other Express Entry stream, now is a promising time to explore your options with Oasis Visas.

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