Express Entry Draw: Canada Issues 1,000 ITAs in Latest CEC Round Amid Shifting CRS Scores

Canada’s Express Entry: Latest Draw Focuses on Canadian Experience Class

On November 26, 2025, Canada conducted its latest Express Entry draw, targeting candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). According to immigration.ca, 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score set at 531 points. This draw continues a recognizable pattern—over the last six CEC rounds, the minimum CRS scores have hovered between 531 and 534, reflecting a relatively stable yet still competitive selection threshold for applicants.

CRS Score Trends: What Do They Mean for Applicants?

The CRS score, a key metric in Express Entry draws, determines which candidates receive invitations to apply for Canadian permanent residency. This November draw’s score—531—was slightly lower than the previous CEC draw on November 12, which also saw 1,000 ITAs but required a minimum score of 533. The near-constant score range suggests that while the bar is high, it hasn’t shifted dramatically, allowing candidates to plan and adjust their profiles accordingly.

For context, the draw before November 26 targeted Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, issuing 777 ITAs with a minimum CRS score of 699—significantly higher, owing to the added points provincial nominees receive. This year, Canada has already held 22 PNP draws and 13 CEC draws, along with targeted rounds for French language proficiency, healthcare, social services, trade, and education occupations. This multifaceted approach aims to address specific labor market needs and demographic goals.

Express Entry in 2025: The Numbers Behind the Draws

Throughout 2025, Canada has issued 88,476 ITAs via Express Entry, as reported by immigration.ca. While this number is slightly behind last year’s total of 98,903, it still demonstrates the system’s central role in immigration policy. The 2025 draws have included:

• 13 CEC draws
• 22 PNP draws
• 7 French language proficiency draws
• 2 education occupation draws
• 6 healthcare and social services draws
• 1 trade occupation draw

Compared to previous years, 2023 saw 110,266 ITAs, and 2021 set a record with 114,431—all to CEC and PNP candidates. The numbers fluctuate each year, reflecting both policy shifts and economic needs.

Tie-Breaking Rules and Application Process

One notable element of the latest draw is the use of the tie-breaking rule, set on October 8, 2025 at 3:02 pm EST. If multiple candidates shared the minimum score, only those who submitted their Express Entry profile before this time received invitations. This mechanism ensures fairness and transparency, especially when scores cluster around the cutoff.

After receiving an ITA, candidates have a 60-day window to submit their complete application for permanent residency. Typically, these applications are processed within six months, maintaining Canada’s reputation for efficient and predictable immigration processing.

Targeted Draws: Addressing Labor Market Needs

Express Entry is not just about numbers; it’s about strategy. By tailoring draws to specific occupations—such as healthcare, education, trades, and French language proficiency—Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is responding to real-time labor shortages and demographic priorities. For example, French-language draws help support Francophone communities outside Quebec, while healthcare and trade occupation draws shore up critical sectors.

This targeted approach is a shift from earlier years when all-program draws dominated the landscape. Now, with the labor market’s evolving needs, Express Entry is more nuanced, balancing general immigration with focused recruitment.

Employers and Provincial Nominee Programs: The Long-Term View

For employers seeking to recruit foreign workers, the Express Entry system provides clear options. Securing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a nomination under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) remains one of the most reliable ways to ensure long-term retention and to help employees secure permanent status. Provincial nominees, in particular, benefit from additional CRS points, often boosting their chances of selection in high-scoring draws.

Express Entry’s Impact: Numbers and Stories

Since its launch, Express Entry has become Canada’s flagship immigration pathway. It’s a system that rewards merit, adaptability, and experience. In 2021, all record-setting 114,431 ITAs went to CEC and PNP candidates, showing a strong preference for those with Canadian work or provincial ties. While the system is data-driven, behind each ITA is an individual story—a skilled professional, a family, a new beginning.

Looking Ahead: What Might Change in 2026?

As 2025 draws to a close, stakeholders—candidates, employers, policymakers—are watching for signs of change. Will CRS scores dip further? Will targeted draws expand to new sectors? Will processing times remain swift? The answers will shape Canada’s labor market and immigration landscape for years to come.

For now, the November draw is a reminder: preparation and timing are everything. With tie-breaking rules and competitive scores, candidates must stay informed and proactive. Employers, meanwhile, have a vital role in supporting skilled newcomers and leveraging provincial programs.

The latest Express Entry draw underscores Canada’s commitment to a merit-based, strategic approach to immigration. By blending stable CRS scores with targeted draws, IRCC is shaping a system that responds to both policy goals and real-world needs—while keeping the door open for those ready to contribute to Canada’s future.