On March 17, 2025, IRCC conducted its latest Express Entry draw, issuing 536 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) exclusively to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an invitation in this draw was 736, reflecting the additional 600 points granted to candidates with a provincial nomination.
Draw Summary
- Date: March 17, 2025
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Invitations Issued: 536
- Minimum CRS Score: 736
- Trend: Decrease in ITAs compared to 2024
Analysis and Trends
This draw highlights an ongoing trend of fewer invitations in PNP-specific draws in 2025. Compared to 2024, where an average of 663 ITAs were issued per PNP draw, 2025 has seen an average of 566 ITAs per draw—suggesting a potential recalibration of immigration targets or a shift in focus towards other Express Entry categories.
Additionally, the CRS cut-off remains high in PNP-specific draws due to the 600-point boost provided by a provincial nomination. This emphasizes the advantage of securing a nomination for candidates with lower CRS scores in the general Express Entry pool.
Predictions for Future Draws
The next Express Entry draw is expected on March 19, 2025, and could be a category-based draw, potentially targeting in-demand occupations such as healthcare, tech, or skilled trades. IRCC has been focusing on sector-specific invitations in recent months, meaning candidates in these categories should ensure their profiles are optimized.
A general draw may also be conducted before the end of March, giving candidates with higher CRS scores another opportunity to receive an ITA.
FAQs on PNP and Express Entry
1. What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers who wish to settle in their region. Nominees must have skills, work experience, or job offers aligned with provincial labor market needs.
2. How does a provincial nomination impact my CRS score?
A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, making them highly likely to receive an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.
3. Why do PNP-specific draws have high CRS cut-off scores?
Since PNP nominees receive 600 additional CRS points, the required cut-off in these draws is generally above 700 or higher.
4. How can I improve my CRS score?
Candidates can improve their CRS scores by:
- Increasing language test scores (IELTS/CELPIP)
- Completing higher education in Canada
- Gaining additional work experience
- Securing a provincial nomination or a job offer from a Canadian employer
5. How often does IRCC conduct Express Entry draws?
IRCC typically conducts draws every two weeks, but the frequency and category-based selections vary depending on immigration priorities.
This draw reinforces the importance of securing a provincial nomination for candidates with lower CRS scores.
