Canada remains a top destination for skilled workers worldwide through its Express Entry draws, offering a clear and efficient route to permanent residency. Recent updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provide key details on invitations and CRS score distributions, offering valuable insights for those considering immigration.
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Key Highlights of the January 23, 2025
On January 23, 2025, IRCC issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program in Express Entry Draw No. 333.
- CRS Score: The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 527.
- Tie-Breaking Rule: The tie-breaking rule was applied to profiles submitted before July 23, 2024, at 07:06:43 UTC.
- Comparison: This marked the second CEC draw of the year, following the January 8 draw, which issued 1,350 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 542. The latest draw saw a slight reduction in the CRS cut-off score.
CRS Score Distribution as of January 23, 2025
The CRS pool comprised 232,924 candidates, with the largest group—67,548—falling in the 451-500 score range. Here’s a breakdown:
| CRS Score Range | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|
| 601-1200 | 200 |
| 501-600 | 24,001 |
| 451-500 | 67,548 |
| 401-450 | 62,426 |
| 351-400 | 51,213 |
| 301-350 | 21,903 |
| 0-300 | 5,633 |
Canadian Experience Class: A Pathway for Skilled Workers
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program is designed for skilled workers already employed in Canada who aim to transition to permanent residency. Eligibility criteria include:
- Work Experience: At least one year of paid skilled work in Canada (or equivalent part-time work) within the past three years.
- Employment Authorization: Experience must be gained under valid temporary resident status.
- Exclusions: Unpaid internships, volunteer work, or unauthorized employment are not eligible.
