Canada invites 277 PNP candidates in first Express Entry draw under new minister. CRS cut-off: 726.
Canada has conducted its first Express Entry draw of June 2025, marking a significant moment as it’s the first one under the leadership of the country’s newly appointed Immigration Minister. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued a total of 277 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
PNP Draw Details: Who Was Invited?
To be considered in this draw, candidates were required to meet the following criteria:
- A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 726
- An active Express Entry profile created before 3:46 p.m. UTC on September 24, 2024
This draw reflects the ongoing focus on skilled candidates nominated by provinces—those considered likely to make an immediate contribution to regional economies.
Snapshot: Express Entry Draws in 2025
So far in 2025, IRCC has held multiple category-specific draws, resulting in a total of 34,717 ITAs issued. Here’s a summary of some key draws this year:
Date | Draw Type | ITAs | CRS Cut-off |
| June 3 | PNP | 277 | 726 |
| May 13 | CEC | 500 | 547 |
| May 12 | PNP | 511 | 706 |
| May 2 | Healthcare | 500 | 510 |
| May 1 | Education | 1,000 | 479 |
| April 28 | PNP | 421 | 727 |
| March 21 | French | 7,500 | 379 |
In total, Canada has conducted:
- 9 PNP draws
- 4 CEC draws
- 3 French language proficiency draws
- 1 Healthcare and Social Services draw
- 1 Education draw
This pattern shows Canada’s preference for aligning immigration with in-demand sectors and regional development goals.
Why Canada Uses the CRS: Data-Driven Immigration
Canada uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to identify skilled worker candidates who are most likely to thrive in the country’s economy. The CRS evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency to rank applicants.
The system is designed based on extensive research, showing that immigrants who are younger, educated, and experienced tend to fare better in the labour market. A 2020 IRCC report highlighted that Express Entry immigrants since 2015 have shown strong outcomes—high employment rates, strong earnings, and low unemployment.
Looking Ahead
This June 3 draw signals the beginning of a new chapter in Canada’s immigration strategy under fresh leadership. With Express Entry continuing to evolve through focused streams and evidence-backed selection, it remains one of the most effective immigration systems globally.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for accurate updates on Canadian immigration policies, Express Entry developments, and more.
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