In a significant boost to its immigration goals, Canada has invited 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency in the first Express Entry draw of February 2025. This latest draw, held on February 5, focused on candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and set a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cutoff of 521—the lowest for a CEC draw so far this year.

With Canada’s ambitious 2025-2027 immigration targets in motion, this draw reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers who have already gained experience within its borders. The Express Entry system, managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ranks candidates based on factors such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and age. Those with the highest CRS scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency through regular draws.

The February 5 draw’s lower CRS threshold suggests a potential broadening of opportunities for skilled workers looking to transition from temporary to permanent residency. However, competition remains strong, and candidates are encouraged to improve their CRS scores through key strategies such as enhancing language proficiency, gaining additional work experience in Canada, pursuing further education, or securing a provincial nomination, which provides a substantial 600-point boost.

Looking ahead, Canada is expected to conduct more targeted draws, potentially favoring French speakers or individuals with in-demand skills, aligning with its broader economic and demographic needs. For many aspiring immigrants, this latest draw signals hope and an opportunity to establish their future in Canada.