On July 21, 2025, Express Entry Draw #356 issued 202 invitations to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), marking a notable update in Canada’s immigration landscape. With a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 788, this draw was more competitive than recent rounds and continues to reflect the evolving priorities of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

For applicants pursuing the PNP pathway, this draw serves as a timely reminder that provincial nominations remain powerful but selective tools for securing permanent residence.

How Express Entry Draw #356 Compares to Previous Rounds

The latest Express Entry Draw targeted only PNP nominees, individuals who had already secured a provincial nomination, which gives them an automatic 600-point boost in the Express Entry pool.

Here’s how this draw stacks up:

Clearly, fewer candidates were selected in Draw #356, while the CRS score was notably higher. This indicates increasing competition among PNP applicants and may reflect provincial adjustments to nomination targets.

What the Express Entry Draw Means for PNP Candidates

In this Express Entry Draw, the tie-breaking rule was applied to profiles submitted before June 5, 2025, at 23:50:45 UTC. This rule determines who gets selected when multiple candidates have the same CRS score.

Here’s why this draw matters:

• Higher CRS threshold: A score of 788 implies stricter selection.
• Smaller number of invitations: With only 202 ITAs issued, IRCC may be focusing on specific labour market needs or provincial quotas.
• PNP-only selection: No Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class candidates were included.

If you’ve received a provincial nomination, make sure your Express Entry profile is complete and up-to-date. That nomination could be your key to permanent residency, but timing is everything.

A Quick Guide to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The PNP is designed to allow Canada’s provinces and territories to nominate candidates who wish to settle in a particular region. Each province has unique criteria, but most programs prioritize:

• Skilled workers
• Healthcare professionals
• Tradespeople
• International graduates

To apply:

• Choose your desired province.
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to their PNP stream.
• Once nominated, apply to Express Entry with your 600-point boost.

The benefit? Even candidates with lower base CRS scores (e.g., in the 400s) can move ahead of the line if they secure a provincial nomination.

Express Entry Draw #356 Highlights the Importance of PNP Pathways

As seen in Express Entry Draw #356, the PNP continues to be a vital route for those targeting Canadian permanent residency. With only 202 invitations and a high cut-off of 788, the draw sends a clear message: preparation, timing, and provincial alignment are more crucial than ever.

At ImmigCanada, we help candidates maximize their chances through the right PNP channels and guide them in building a competitive Express Entry profile.

Add ImmigCanada to Your Google News Feed