Express Entry Draws

What is an Express Entry Draw?

An Express Entry draw is a selection process conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to candidates in the Express Entry pool. During each Express Entry draw, IRCC selects candidates from the Express Entry pool based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. The CRS is a points-based system that assesses candidates according to age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability factors. Candidates scoring at or above the cutoff point established for that particular draw receive an ITA. Express Entry draws typically occur every two weeks, although the schedule can vary based on immigration targets and processing capacity. IRCC announces the results of each draw, including the number of invitations issued, the minimum CRS score required, and which Express Entry programs were included in the selection. Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. An Express Entry calculator can help candidates determine their potential CRS score and eligibility for upcoming draws.

Types of Express Entry Draws

All-Program Draws

All-program draws consider candidates from all Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). During all-program draws, IRCC ranks candidates solely based on their CRS scores, regardless of which program they qualify for. The minimum CRS score for these draws typically ranges from 500 to 600 points, though this can fluctuate based on the number of candidates in the pool and Canada’s immigration targets.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draws

CEC-specific draws target candidates with Canadian work experience. To qualify, candidates must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years and meet language requirements. These program-specific draws typically have minimum CRS scores between 500 and 600 points.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws

Provincial Nominee Program draws select candidates who have received a provincial nomination through an Express Entry-aligned provincial stream. Receiving a provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in subsequent draws. PNP draws typically have much higher CRS cutoffs (usually 700+) because of the 600-point award for provincial nominations. These draws help provinces select immigrants who meet their specific regional economic needs and who have demonstrated an intention to settle in that province.

Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Draws

FSW-specific draws target candidates who qualify under the Federal Skilled Worker Program. These candidates typically have skilled work experience obtained outside Canada and must meet requirements for education, language proficiency, and adaptability. While less common than all-program draws, FSW-specific draws may be held to target particular skill sets or address processing backlogs. The CRS score requirements for FSW draws are comparable to all-program draws.

Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Draws

FST-specific draws select candidates qualified under the Federal Skilled Trades Program. These draws target skilled tradespeople with qualifications and experience in specific trades occupations. FST draws are the least frequent type of Express Entry draw and generally have lower CRS score requirements to accommodate the specific professional profiles of tradespeople. The applicants need to have either a job offer from a Canadian employer or have obtained a certificate of qualification issued by a provincial/territorial or federal authority.

French Language Proficiency Draws

French language proficiency draws have become increasingly important in Canada’s Express Entry system as the country aims to strengthen its bilingual character. These category-based draws specifically target candidates with strong French language skills. To qualify for a French language draw, candidates must have scored at least a 7 in all four language abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) test. These draws typically feature lower CRS score requirements than all-program draws and a less competitive selection process.

Category-Based Selection Draws

Introduced in 2023, category-based selection draws target candidates with specific skills, language abilities, or other attributes that align with Canada’s economic priorities. These include draws for:

• Healthcare professionals and social services workers
• STEM professionals (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
• Trades workers
• Education occupations
• Agriculture and agri-food workers

The CRS requirements for category-based draws vary depending on the specific category and the number of eligible candidates.

Express Entry Draw Schedule for 2025

IRCC typically conducts Express Entry draws approximately every two weeks, though the actual schedule can vary based on Canada’s immigration targets and processing capacity. According to the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to welcome 124,680 new permanent residents through the Express Entry system in 2025, which suggests that regular, substantial draws will continue throughout the year.

Year-to-Date Express Entry Draws in 2025

Stay connected with Bellissimo Law Group for the most up-to-date information on Express Entry latest draw results and insights on Express Entry trends for 2025.

Prepare for the Next Express Entry Draw with Bellissimo Law Group

The Canadian immigration landscape changes frequently, with new draws, score thresholds, and program modifications that can impact your chances of success. Bellissimo Law Group has extensive experience helping clients succeed with Express Entry applications. Our team of immigration lawyers stays current with all Express Entry draws, policy changes, and program requirements to provide you with the most accurate and timely advice. We can help by:

• Evaluating your eligibility for Express Entry programs
• Calculating your potential CRS score using our Express Entry calculator
• Identifying strategies to improve your CRS score
• Assessing qualification for category-based draws
• Preparing documentation to support your application
• Ensuring applications are complete and accurate
• Representing clients in case of refusals or procedural issues

The difference between success and failure in the Express Entry system often comes down to details. Our in-depth knowledge of Express Entry draws, and program requirements can help you maximize your chances of receiving an ITA. Don’t leave your Canadian immigration journey to chance. Whether you’re preparing to enter the Express Entry pool, waiting for the Express Entry next draw, or have already received an invitation to apply, Bellissimo Law Group can provide the guidance you need. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers.