In the latest round of invitations under Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), 421 Express Entry candidates have received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. The draw, held on April 28, 2025, saw the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score set at 727, indicating a highly competitive selection process.
This draw continues a trend of ascending cut-off scores in PNP-specific rounds, reflecting increasing demand and selectivity in the nomination process. Since provincial nominations automatically contribute 600 CRS points, candidates invited in this draw would have had a base score of approximately 127 before receiving their nomination.
How PNP matters
The PNP is a vital component of Canada's immigration strategy, allowing provinces and territories to nominate candidates who meet their specific labour market and population needs. Those selected are generally seen as better prepared to blend into the regional workforce and community.
While Express Entry draws have included category-based and general rounds in recent months, PNP draws remain crucial for candidates seeking a competitive edge in the permanent residence process. This is specifically true for someone who might not have met the cut-off in general draws but can qualify through a provincial nomination.
Canada continues to pursue ambitious immigration targets under its 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan, with over 100,000 admissions expected through PNP pathways annually. With labour shortages still present in many provinces, particularly in healthcare, construction, and technology sectors, further PNP draws are expected to focus on high-demand occupations.
Candidates interested in increasing their chances in future draws are encouraged to research and apply to provincial streams aligned with their skills and experience.
