The Canada Express Entry system continues to evolve rapidly in 2025. With high competition, limited invitations, and new draw categories, staying updated is essential for aspiring immigrants. If you’re wondering what the next Canada Express Entry draw might look like and whether you still have a chance, this blog gives you practical, data-driven insights based on the latest trends.
Quick Recap: What is Canada Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing skilled immigration applications. It includes programs like the:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Candidates enter a pool and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Regular draws invite top-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residence.
Key Trends in 2025 So Far
Smaller Draws, Higher CRS Scores
Recent draws have been fewer and smaller in size. The last draw, held on May 13, 2025, invited just 500 CEC candidates with a CRS score of 547, the highest for any CEC draw this year. This trend reflects the reduced immigration targets set by Canada’s 2025–2027 plan.
Focus on In-Canada Candidates
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is prioritizing candidates already living or working in Canada. These include those with:
- Canadian work experience
- High French proficiency
- Job skills in key industries (healthcare, STEM, trades, teaching)
Category-Based Draws Are Taking Over
Rather than general draws, IRCC is using category-based draws to target:
- French-speaking candidates
- Healthcare professionals
- Skilled tradespeople
- STEM workers
- Educators and childcare workers
For example:
- French proficiency draws have seen CRS scores as low as 379.
- Healthcare draws in 2025 have had CRS cut-offs around 510.
- Education draws, introduced in May 2025, had a cut-off of 479.
Job Offer Points Removed
Since March 2025, job offer points have been eliminated from the CRS to combat fraud. Previously, job offers could boost scores by 50–200 points. Now, candidates must rely more on language, education, and work experience.
Predicting the Next Canada Express Entry Draw
The next Express Entry draw is expected between May 27 and May 30, 2025, based on the biweekly schedule.
Likely Draw Type
A category-based draw is most likely possibly focused on:
- French-speaking candidates (CRS 360–380)
- Healthcare professionals (CRS 490–510)
- Skilled trades (CRS around 450)
A CEC draw is less likely since one was just held. PNP draws may continue but in smaller numbers.
Number of Invitations
Expect anywhere from 500 to 2,000 ITAs, depending on the draw type. Larger numbers are often reserved for French draws, while occupation-specific draws remain smaller.
Can You Get PR with a 400 CRS Score in 2025?
If your CRS score is around 400, you might struggle to receive an invitation in general draws. However, you could still qualify if:
- You speak French fluently (French draws have lower cut-offs)
- You work in a targeted occupation like skilled trades or education
- You gain Canadian work experience or a provincial nomination
How to Improve Your Chances in the Next Draw
- Boost your language scores – especially in French.
- Apply under a targeted category, if eligible.
- Gain Canadian work experience (CEC is heavily favored).
- Keep your profile updated even a small change can improve your ranking.
With fewer invitations and higher CRS scores, competition is intense. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you can qualify for a category-based draw or improve your score, you still have a strong shot at success.
The next Canada Express Entry draw could be your chance but only if your profile is ready. Book a consultation with an RCIC at ImmigCanada to review your Express Entry profile, explore French or occupational eligibility, and prepare for upcoming draws. Your Express Entry opportunity might be just around the corner.
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