On 5th February 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw, specifically targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This draw saw a total of 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued for permanent residency. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cut-off for the lowest-ranked candidate was 521.
The key details of this draw are summarised below:
| Express Entry Draw – Canadian Experience Class | Details |
| Date & Time | 5th February 2025 |
| Number of ITAs Issued | 4,000 |
| CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate | 521 |
| Rank Required | 4,000 or above |
| Tie-Breaking Rule Date | 14th November 2024 at 02:52:14 UTC |
Understanding the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The CEC is a popular pathway for skilled workers who have gained at least one year of work experience in Canada. Candidates applying through this category must demonstrate strong language proficiency (in English or French) and plan to live outside Quebec. This pathway is ideal for temporary workers and international graduates who have already integrated into the Canadian workforce.
CRS Score and Tie-Breaking Rule
The CRS score is calculated based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language ability. A score of 521 is relatively competitive; meaning candidates with strong credentials had a good chance of receiving an ITA.
The tie-breaking rule applies when multiple candidates have the same CRS score at the cut-off point. In this case, candidates with a 521 score who submitted their Express Entry profiles before 14th November 2024 at 02:52:14 UTC received invitations.
What Candidates Can Do Next
For those still in the Express Entry pool, improving language scores, gaining additional work experience, or pursuing further education can help increase CRS scores. Keeping Express Entry profiles updated and staying informed about draw trends is crucial.
With a high number of ITAs issued, this draw highlights Canada’s commitment to transitioning skilled workers into permanent residents, strengthening the country’s economy and workforce
Comparison with Previous Draws
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted multiple Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws in early 2025. Below is a comparison of the latest rounds:
|
Date |
Category | Number of ITAs | CRS Cut-off Score |
| 8th January 2025 | Canadian Experience Class | 1,350 | 542 |
| 23rd January 2025 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 527 |
| 5th February 2025 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 521 |
Key Observations
Compared to earlier draws, the latest round saw an increase in ITAs and a lower CRS cut-off score. The 8th January 2025 draw had a higher CRS cut-off of 542 but issued only 1,350 invitations. The 23rd January draw marked a shift, with 4,000 ITAs and a reduced CRS requirement of 527. The 5th February draw further lowered the cut-off to 521, indicating a positive trend for candidates.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
• The lower CRS cut-off means more candidates have a chance of receiving an ITA.
• Candidates should focus on improving their CRS scores by boosting language test results, gaining work experience, or obtaining additional education credentials.
• Staying updated on draw trends is essential for those in the Express Entry pool.
