IRCC Issues More Express Entry Invitations to PNP Candidates
Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has kicked off 2025 with a bang. They issued 6,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in its first French-proficiency category-based draw. This draw took place on February 19, 2025. It targeted candidates with strong French language skills. A Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 428 was required. If you’re in the Express Entry pool, this is a significant update you need to know.
What Happened in the February 19 Draw?
The February 19 draw was the fourth Express Entry draw of the month. It followed two Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws and one Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw. Here’s a quick breakdown of the latest draw:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | CRS Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 19, 2025 | French-proficiency draw | 6,500 | 428 |
This draw highlights IRCC’s focus on attracting French-speaking candidates to support Canada’s bilingual communities. If you’re fluent in French, this could be your opportunity. You might secure an ITA and move closer to Canadian permanent residency (PR).
Summary of 2025 Express Entry Draws So Far
IRCC has been busy in 2025, issuing a total of 11,601 ITAs across multiple draws. Here’s a summary of the draws held this year:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | CRS Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 19, 2025 | French-proficiency draw | 6,500 | 428 |
| February 17, 2025 | PNP draw | 646 | 750 |
| February 5, 2025 | CEC draw | 4,000 | 521 |
| February 4, 2025 | PNP draw | 455 | 802 |
| January 23, 2025 | CEC draw | 4,000 | 527 |
| January 8, 2025 | CEC draw | 1,350 | 542 |
| January 7, 2025 | PNP draw | 471 | 793 |
These draws reflect IRCC’s commitment to meeting its 2025-2026 immigration targets, particularly for CEC and PNP candidates. If you’re in one of these categories, now is the time to ensure your profile is competitive.
How Can You Improve Your CRS Score?
If your CRS score is below the latest cut-off, don’t worry. There are several ways to boost your score and increase your chances of receiving an ITA:
1. Obtain a Provincial Nomination
A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your profile, almost guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw. Many provinces, like Ontario and British Columbia, have Express Entry-aligned streams that prioritize skilled workers.
2. Improve Your Language Scores
Language proficiency is a major factor in the CRS system. Retaking tests like IELTS or CELPIP can help you achieve a higher Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score. This can add up to 310 points to your profile.
3. Switch Principal Applicants
If your spouse or partner has a higher CRS score, consider making them the principal applicant. This simple switch could significantly boost your chances of receiving an ITA.
4. Gain Additional Education
Completing another degree or diploma, especially from a Canadian institution, can add up to 250 CRS points. If you studied outside Canada, consider getting an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to claim points for your foreign credentials.
5. Add More Work Experience
Both Canadian and foreign work experience can increase your CRS score. Document your work history carefully and aim to gain more experience in skilled occupations.
Why Are French-Proficiency Draws Important?
IRCC’s focus on French-speaking candidates aligns with Canada’s goal of promoting bilingualism. If you’re fluent in French, you have a unique advantage in the Express Entry system. Even if your CRS score is lower, you can still benefit from French proficiency. It can open doors to category-based draws like the one on February 19.
What’s Next for Express Entry Candidates?
With IRCC’s aggressive draw schedule in 2025, now is the time to take action. You might be improving your CRS score. Perhaps you are applying for a provincial nomination. Enhancing your language skills is also important. Every step brings you closer to Canadian PR.
Need help navigating the Express Entry system? Schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation with The Immigration Professional to get expert guidance tailored to your profile.
