Welcome to episode 92 of the Canada Immigration News Podcast. In this episode we break down Express Entry Draw 376 that issued 6,000 ITAs to French-language skilled workers, review the recent Canadian Experience Class Draw 375 and Provincial Nominee Program Draw 374, and explain IRCC’s mandatory upfront medical exam requirement for new Express Entry applications. These developments show how IRCC is balancing category-based selection with document completeness to speed decisions and meet labour needs. Express Entry Draw 376 Issues 6,000 Invitations for French-Language Skilled Workers On October 29, 2025, IRCC ran Express Entry Draw 376, issuing 6,000 Invitations to Apply to candidates demonstrating French-language proficiency. The cut-off was 416 and applicants needed CLB 7 or higher in all four skills. Draw 376 underlines Canada’s strategic push to grow Francophone communities outside Quebec and to plug labour gaps where bilingual services matter most. For many candidates with CRS scores in the 400–470 range, strong French results now represent a clear pathway to an earlier invitation. Canadian Experience Class Draw 375 Continues CEC Stability with CRS 533 The day before, Express Entry Draw 375 targeted the Canadian Experience Class, issuing 1,000 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 533. CEC draws remain IRCC’s dependable channel for candidates already building careers in Canada. Draw 375 reinforces a pattern of steady CEC thresholds that give temporary workers and international graduates a predictable route to permanent residency when they maintain employment and updated profiles. Provincial Nominee Draw 374 Shows PNP Demand with CRS 761 Express Entry Draw 374 on October 27 focused on Provincial Nominee Program candidates, issuing 302 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 761. PNP draws continue to prioritize regional labour needs and reward provincial nominations with a 600-point boost, often guaranteeing an ITA for nominated candidates. Draw 374’s score shows that while PNPs are powerful, competition remains intense, getting a provincial nomination is still a game changer for many applicants. IRCC Tightens Rules with Mandatory Upfront Medical Exams for Express Entry IRCC has ended the facilitation period that allowed some Express Entry files to be submitted without medicals. As of October 21, 2025, new Express Entry applications must include a completed Immigration Medical Examination (IME) at submission. This completeness check aims to reduce in-process delays, lower back-and-forth on medical admissibility, and speed final decisions. Applicants should book IRCC-approved panel physicians early, gather IME receipts/UME numbers, and ensure exams remain valid through processing. How These Changes Affect Candidates Now: Category-based draws like 376 (French) and 375 (CEC) show opportunity for candidates who align skills with IRCC priorities: bilingual candidates, those with Canadian work experience, and provincially nominated applicants. The new medical rule means preparedness matters more than ever. Submitting a complete PR application with IME proof reduces the risk of rejection and shortens wait times. Candidates should update profiles, confirm language test validity, secure panel physician bookings, and consider provincial pathways that match their occupation. Subscribe to Canada Immigration News Podcast & Newsletter Get timely analysis of every Express Entry draw, PNP update, and IRCC policy change. Join our community of over 2 million subscribers for weekly episodes and a newsletter packed with draw predictions, how-to guides, and settlement tips. Subscribe to the Canada Immigration News Podcast and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed and ahead.

Canada Immigration News Podcast #91 brings you a comprehensive roundup of the latest updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Statistics Canada. In this episode, we discuss Express Entry Draw 372, inviting 345 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates with a CRS of 778, the latest healthcare-targeted draw for 2,500 skilled professionals, the TR to PR open work permit extension until 2026, and Canada’s employment growth in September 2025. Each of these stories reflects how Canada continues to strengthen its workforce, streamline immigration, and provide opportunities for newcomers. Express Entry Draw 372 Invites 345 Provincial Nominee Program Candidates On October 14, 2025, IRCC conducted Express Entry Draw #372, inviting 345 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 778, making it one of the more competitive draws of the year. Candidates with provincial nominations received an automatic 600-point boost, positioning them well above the general Express Entry pool. So far in 2025, IRCC has held 42 draws, with a steady emphasis on targeted invitations rather than large-scale all-program draws. The higher CRS cut-offs reflect several factors, including reduced immigration targets, temporary pauses in Canadian Experience Class draws earlier in the year, and increased global demand for Canadian permanent residency. This PNP draw underscores the critical role provinces play in addressing regional labor market shortages and highlights the ongoing competitiveness of the Express Entry system. IRCC Healthcare Draw Invites 2,500 Skilled Professionals with CRS 472 On the same day, IRCC issued another 2,500 Invitations to Apply under the Healthcare and Social Services category. The CRS cut-off for this round was 472, and profiles created before May 12, 2025, were eligible. This was the fifth healthcare-focused draw of the year, bringing the total invitations for 2025 in this category to nearly 10,000. The consistent series of healthcare draws demonstrates Canada’s strong commitment to filling vacancies across its medical and social care systems. Provinces such as Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia continue to experience sustained demand for nurses, physicians, therapists, and support workers. These targeted rounds not only help meet national healthcare needs but also open permanent residency pathways for international medical professionals already contributing to Canada’s workforce. TR to PR Open Work Permit Extended Until December 31, 2026 In another major policy update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended the TR to PR open work permit program until December 31, 2026. This extension allows temporary residents who applied for permanent residency through the 2021 TR to PR streams to continue working in Canada without interruption while their applications are processed. The revised policy also expands eligibility to certain family members outside Canada, ensuring better family reunification and reducing the need for repeated permit renewals. Applicants under healthcare, essential worker, and international graduate streams will benefit the most, gaining stability while they await permanent status. This decision reflects IRCC’s efforts to simplify transitions for temporary workers and maintain workforce continuity across critical industries. Canada Adds 60,000 Jobs in September 2025 Amid Economic Growth Canada’s latest employment report from Statistics Canada shows that 60,000 new jobs were added in September 2025, marking a 0.3% rise in overall employment. The national employment rate climbed to 60.6%, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 7.1%. The growth was strongest among core-aged workers (25–54 years old), particularly women, and was driven by hiring in manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. Alberta led provincial gains with 43,000 new jobs, followed by Manitoba a

Canada Immigration News Podcast #90 explores a series of significant immigration developments shaping Canada’s pathway for skilled workers. This week, we cover Express Entry Draw 370 targeting Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, the record-breaking French-language draw, global migration trends that keep Canada as the #1 destination, and how a new U.S. visa fee could help Canada attract more tech talent. These updates highlight Canada’s continued focus on skilled immigration and inclusivity as key drivers of its economic and social growth. Express Entry Draw 370 Invites 1,000 Canadian Experience Class Candidates On October 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #370, exclusively for candidates under the Canadian Experience Class. In this draw, 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 534 — consistent with the previous two CEC-specific rounds. The tie-breaking rule for this draw was set for February 21, 2025, at 04:01:57 UTC. This draw reaffirms IRCC’s ongoing focus on transitioning skilled workers already employed in Canada to permanent residency. Candidates with Canadian work experience tend to integrate faster into the labor market and local communities, contributing to Canada’s long-term economic resilience. The steady CRS threshold also signals predictability for future applicants planning their CEC profiles. Express Entry Draw 371 Highlights French Language Proficiency Candidates Just days later, on October 6, 2025, IRCC held Express Entry Draw #371, issuing 4,500 Invitations to Apply to candidates with French-language proficiency. The CRS cut-off for this draw was 432, with eligibility limited to profiles submitted before June 13, 2025, at 7:07 p.m. UTC. This French-language draw was one of the largest of the year, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec. By awarding additional CRS points to French-speaking candidates, IRCC continues to strengthen Canada’s bilingual identity and meet labor needs in provinces like Ontario, Manitoba, and New Brunswick. The focus on Francophone applicants also aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to support linguistic diversity and rural population growth. Why Canada Tops the List of the World’s Most Desired Immigration Destinations A recent global survey ranked Canada as the #1 choice for individuals planning to move abroad. The findings highlighted quality of life, career growth, and cultural diversity as the top motivators behind the preference. For many, Canada represents the perfect balance between opportunity and stability. The country’s clean environment, inclusive policies, and access to universal healthcare make it a top destination for families and professionals alike. Beyond employment prospects, Canada’s multicultural cities and welcoming communities provide a sense of belonging for newcomers. Whether one values financial security, lifestyle balance, or personal growth, Canada consistently stands out as the place where all these aspirations converge. U.S. Visa Fee Hike Creates Opportunity for Canada’s Tech Sector The United States recently announced a $1,000 annual fee for H-1B worker visas, which could reshape global competition for skilled professionals. This decision may discourage U.S. employers from hiring international talent — but it opens a door for Canada. With its streamlined immigration pathways such as Express Entry, the Global Talent Stream, and tech-focused Provincial Nominee Programs, Canada offers an appealing alternative for skilled professionals in technology, engineering, and innovation. Industry experts predict that the new U.S. fee will drive more tech workers north, particularly as Canada continues to provide clear routes from temporary work to permanent residence. This shift reinforces Canada’s reputation as a global hub for innovation and skilled immigrat

Canada Immigration News Podcast #89 brings you the latest updates shaping immigration opportunities in Canada. This week’s episode covers Express Entry Draw 367 for education professionals with a CRS cut-off of 462, the first trade occupations draw of 2025, Alberta’s increase in AAIP nominations, and the upcoming addition of a Canadian citizenship marker to Alberta driver’s licenses and ID cards. These developments highlight how Canada is adapting its immigration system to meet workforce demands while also enhancing identity verification and settlement supports. Express Entry Draw 367 Opens Opportunities for Education Professionals On September 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw 367, targeting the education category. A total of 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off of 462, the lowest for this category in 2025 outside of French-language draws. The occupations eligible under this draw include early childhood educators, elementary and secondary school teachers, special needs instructors, and teaching assistants. For many candidates in the education sector, this round provides a strong opportunity to transition to permanent residency, reflecting Canada’s recognition of the critical role educators play in supporting a growing population and strengthening communities. Express Entry Draw 368 Prioritizes Trade Occupations Just days after the education-focused round, IRCC held Express Entry Draw 368 for trade occupations. In this draw, 1,250 invitations were issued, with a CRS cut-off of 505. Eligible candidates needed to have submitted their profiles before November 5, 2025. This was the first trades-focused round in nearly a year, and it underscored the high demand for skilled tradespeople across Canada. Sectors such as construction, mechanics, welding, and electrical work remain vital to the economy. Although the CRS cut-off was higher than in other category-based draws, the inclusion of trade occupations demonstrates Canada’s continued commitment to attracting workers in these essential roles. IRCC Increases Alberta AAIP Nomination Capacity for 2025 Another important update comes from Alberta, where IRCC announced an increase in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) nomination allocations. For 2025, Alberta’s allocation has risen by 1,528 spots, bringing the total to 6,403 nominations. The AAIP provides pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates to gain provincial nominations and accelerate their route to permanent residency. With Alberta’s economy growing in key sectors such as energy, healthcare, agriculture, and technology, this increase ensures that employers have access to the talent they need while newcomers benefit from more opportunities to settle in the province. The higher allocation also signals IRCC’s recognition of Alberta’s expanding role in Canada’s overall immigration strategy. Alberta Introduces Canadian Citizenship Marker on IDs and Driver’s Licenses Looking ahead to 2026, Alberta is set to launch a new Canadian citizenship marker on all newly issued and renewed driver’s licenses and provincial ID cards. This change will allow residents to prove both their identity and citizenship using a single document, reducing the need to carry multiple forms of identification. The measure is also designed to safeguard democratic processes by making it easier to verify voter eligibility. For new Canadian citizens, the change means proof of citizenship will be required when applying for or renewing identification starting in the fall of 2026. Alberta’s decision aligns with international best practices and reflects a broader shift toward secure, efficient identity verification systems. Stay Connected with Canada Immigration News Podcast Canada Immigration News Podcast continues to provide trusted, timely updates on Express Entry draws, provincial immigration p

Canada Immigration News Podcast #88 brings you another round of essential updates shaping Canada’s immigration system. This week’s episode covers Express Entry Draw 362 targeting healthcare and social services workers, IRCC’s new upfront medical exam rule for Express Entry applicants, Canada’s $34 million investment in French-language health services to support Francophone immigration, and Ontario’s $70 million workforce investment to protect workers and strengthen the economy. Together, these developments highlight how Canada continues to evolve its immigration system to meet urgent workforce needs and improve settlement opportunities. Express Entry Draw 362 Focuses on Healthcare and Social Services On August 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw 362, issuing 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in healthcare and social services. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off was 470, with a tie-break of April 23, 2025. This was the lowest CRS requirement for a healthcare-focused draw so far in 2025, signaling that Canada is prioritizing care professionals in the 470–475 CRS band. Eligible occupations included registered nurses, physicians, pharmacists, social workers, and community service professionals. For many candidates in health and care-related roles, this round provided a faster route to permanent residency. New Upfront Medical Exam Requirement for Express Entry Applicants Beginning August 21, 2025, IRCC has introduced a new requirement for most Express Entry applicants: completing an upfront medical exam before submitting a permanent residence application. This policy shift means that medical results must now be included with the initial PR application, reducing delays and ensuring faster processing. While some applicants inside Canada can reuse a recent Immigration Medical Exam (IME) if completed within the last five years, most new applicants will need to schedule an exam with an approved panel physician. This change reflects IRCC’s effort to streamline the process, minimize back-and-forth requests, and deliver quicker decisions for Express Entry candidates. Canada Invests $34 Million in French-Language Health Services On August 18, 2025, the Canadian government announced a $34 million investment to expand French-language health services in Ontario. The funding will enhance access to care for Francophone communities, supporting family medicine, community clinics, mental health services, and hospitals. For French-speaking immigrants, access to healthcare in their first official language improves both settlement outcomes and long-term well-being. This initiative also strengthens Canada’s broader Francophone immigration strategy, ensuring that French-speaking newcomers can access services and thrive in their communities. It aligns with ongoing programs such as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream and federal category-based draws for Francophone candidates. Ontario Allocates $70 Million to Protect Workers and Strengthen the Economy Ontario is also making a significant investment to support its workforce in response to global economic pressures and shifting trade dynamics. The province announced $70 million in funding for two initiatives: Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centres and the Better Jobs Ontario program. POWER Centres will act as rapid-response hubs for workers facing layoffs, offering job search assistance and retraining resources. Better Jobs Ontario will expand tuition and training support for individuals transitioning into high-demand fields. For newcomers and residents alike, this funding provides opportunities to access training, upskill for the evolving job market, and secure stable employment in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing. Stay Connected with Canada Immigration News Podcast The Canada Immigration News Podcast

Canada Immigration News Podcast #87 brings you the latest updates shaping Canada’s immigration landscape. In this episode, we cover Express Entry Draw 360 that targeted French-speaking candidates, the latest draw for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates with a CRS of 800, upcoming 2026 Express Entry categories, and Alberta’s investment in an Early Childhood Educator Bursary. Each of these developments highlights how Canada continues to refine its immigration pathways while responding to workforce needs and community priorities. Canada Targets French-Speaking Candidates in Express Entry Draw 360 On August 8, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its third draw of the week, Express Entry Draw 360, focusing on French-speaking candidates. A total of 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 481. This strategy underscores Canada’s commitment to building Francophone communities outside Quebec and strengthening bilingual workforces. French speakers gain not only lower CRS cut-offs but also additional points for bilingualism, giving them a significant advantage compared to other categories. Provincial Nominee Program Candidates Receive ITAs with CRS 800 The week also saw Canada issue invitations to 192 PNP candidates on August 18, 2025. With a CRS cut-off of 800, this draw highlighted the continued importance of provincial nominations in Express Entry. Candidates nominated through provincial programs benefit from an automatic 600-point boost, making their profiles highly competitive. As Canada balances program-specific and category-based draws, PNP candidates remain central to meeting regional labour market demands and filling skill shortages across the provinces. New 2026 Express Entry Categories Announced Looking ahead, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has revealed that new categories will be added to Express Entry in 2026. In addition to the current six categories, which include healthcare, STEM, trades, agriculture, education, and French-language proficiency, three more will be introduced: Leadership and Senior Management, Researchers and Scientists, and Highly Skilled Military Recruits. These updates demonstrate Canada’s forward-thinking approach to aligning immigration intake with future economic needs. Skilled professionals in these new categories will have greater opportunities to secure permanent residency through a more targeted selection process. Alberta Expands Early Childhood Educator Bursary Immigration and education are closely connected, and Alberta is addressing a critical workforce need by investing $3.3 million into its Early Childhood Educator Bursary program. This initiative provides $10,000 in tuition support for 300 students over the next three years, helping them complete certificate programs and enter licensed child-care centres. Alberta continues to face staffing shortages in early learning, and this bursary aims to remove financial barriers while encouraging more people to pursue careers in child care. For international students and newcomers considering careers in early childhood education, this investment highlights new pathways into meaningful employment in Canada. Subscribe to Canada Immigration News Podcast and Newsletter With more than 2 million subscribers, the Canada Immigration News Podcast and newsletter provide the most trusted updates on Express Entry draws, immigration policy changes, and settlement opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to stay informed and ahead of the curve. Subscribe today and join our growing global community of future Canadians.

Welcome to Canada Immigration News Podcast #86, your trusted source for the latest developments in Canadian immigration. In this episode, we explore the newest Express Entry PNP and CEC draws, Quebec’s streamlined process for foreign physicians, and how the British Columbia Access Grant continues to make education more affordable. These updates highlight how Canada’s immigration and education systems are working together to attract talent and strengthen communities. Express Entry Opens August with 225 ITAs for PNP Candidates Canada began August 2025 with a targeted Express Entry draw for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. On August 6, 2025, IRCC issued 225 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) with a minimum CRS score of 739. Eligibility was limited to candidates who submitted their Express Entry profile before April 23, 2025, at 6:35 a.m. UTC. PNP draws remain significant because provincial nominations provide an automatic 600-point boost, making selection almost guaranteed. This draw reflects Canada’s continued reliance on PNPs to address specific regional labor needs and ensure that immigration benefits provinces and territories directly. Express Entry Draw Invites 1,000 CEC Candidates with CRS 534 Just a day later, on August 7, 2025, IRCC conducted Express Entry draw #359, inviting 1,000 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with a cut-off score of 534. The CEC category favors skilled workers who already have Canadian work experience, highlighting the value of in-country employment for permanent residency prospects. This year has seen fluctuating CRS scores for CEC draws, with recent cut-offs ranging between 518 and 547. The latest results reaffirm that skilled workers already contributing to Canada’s labor market remain a priority in the federal immigration strategy. Quebec Simplifies Work Permits for Foreign Physicians Quebec has introduced a major change to make it easier for foreign-trained doctors to work in underserved regions. Starting July 31, 2025, physicians will only need a single employer-specific C10 work permit, valid for up to five years. This replaces the previous two-step process that required both an assessment permit and a practice permit. The streamlined system reduces paperwork, speeds up integration, and allows healthcare facilities to fill critical vacancies more efficiently. Foreign physicians must still secure accreditation from the Collège des Médecins du Québec (CMQ) and meet standard immigration requirements. This change is expected to attract more global medical professionals to Quebec’s rural areas, strengthening healthcare delivery where it is most needed. British Columbia Access Grant Turns Five British Columbia’s Access Grant has reached its five-year milestone, having supported more than 88,000 students since 2020. The program provides up to $4,000 annually for full-time students and $1,000 for part-time students, covering not just tuition but also housing, food, transportation, and learning materials. Unlike loans, this is a non-repayable, upfront grant, which makes higher education more accessible and reduces financial stress for low- and middle-income families. With over $178 million distributed, the grant has been instrumental in closing skill gaps and ensuring that future workers are prepared for key industries like technology, healthcare, and natural resources. Subscribe to Canada Immigration News Podcast and Newsletter Join over 2 million subscribers who rely on Canada Immigration News Podcast for timely updates, expert analysis, and in-depth coverage of immigration and education news. Subscribe to our podcast and newsletter to stay ahead of Express Entry trends, provincial programs, and policy changes that could impact your journey to Canada.

Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve rapidly, as highlighted in the latest Express Entry developments and sector-specific policy updates. In this week’s episode of the Canada Immigration News Podcast, we break down the July 21, 2025, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Express Entry draw, explore the major healthcare and social worker intake, and look into new reforms for marine jobs and student city rankings. Canada's Express Entry Draw on July 21 Raises CRS Bar to 788 for PNP Candidates Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Express Entry draw on July 21, 2025, issuing 202 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). The required Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 788, a significant increase of 38 points from the previous PNP draw on July 7. This jump underscores the growing competitiveness for PNP pathways, where even candidates with provincial nominations must meet increasingly high thresholds. Applicants were selected based on profiles submitted before June 5, 2025. These results reaffirm the critical value of securing a provincial nomination, which automatically adds 600 CRS points. As Express Entry draws become more targeted and selective, PNPs remain a crucial route for skilled workers to gain permanent residency. 4,000 Healthcare and Social Workers Invited in July 22 Occupation-Specific Draw Just one day after the PNP round, IRCC conducted a massive category-based draw on July 22, inviting 4,000 healthcare and social service professionals. With a relatively low CRS cut-off of 475, this draw marked the third healthcare-focused round in 2025, showing a strong commitment to filling labor shortages in Canada’s essential services. The tie-breaking rule was applied to profiles created before March 13, 2025. This initiative aligns with the federal government's push to bolster the health sector workforce by targeting occupations in demand, such as nurses, doctors, and social workers. Canada Eases Rules for Marine Sector Jobs Under International Mobility Program Canada updated its International Mobility Program (IMP) on July 18, introducing new clarity on work permit requirements for marine occupations. The revised rules under paragraph 186(s) now better define when foreign nationals can work without a permit. The policy specifically benefits sectors like shipping, above-deck retrofitting, and marine operations. For marine professionals, this reform opens more streamlined entry routes into Canada’s job market. Canadian shipping firms, international hires, and HR teams now have clearer pathways for compliance and employment. QS Rankings: Four Canadian Cities Among Top 100 Global Student Destinations Canada’s reputation as a global education hub remains strong, with four of its cities- Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa, featured in the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2026. Montreal led the way at #18, followed by Toronto at #22, Vancouver at #29, and Ottawa at #80. While affordability continues to challenge students in these cities, their international appeal is fueled by diversity, strong employer networks, and top-tier universities. These rankings highlight Canada’s continued relevance in the global academic landscape. Subscribe to Canada Immigration News Podcast & Newsletter Stay ahead of critical immigration updates and opportunities. Join over 2 million subscribers by following the Canada Immigration News Podcast and signing up for our newsletter. Get timely insights, draw analysis, job trends, and policy changes delivered straight to your inbox every week.

Welcome to Canada Immigration News Podcast #84, where we break down the latest developments from the world of Canadian immigration. In this episode, we look at IRCC’s most recent Express Entry draws, a record-breaking CEC cut-off score, Saskatchewan’s wage hike, and updates to proof of funds requirements for Express Entry applicants. Canada Invites 356 PNP Candidates in Express Entry Draw #354 On July 7, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry draw #354, inviting 356 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 750. This draw required candidates to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before March 19, 2025, and continues Canada’s strategy to use PNP draws to support regional labor market needs. A PNP nomination gives candidates an automatic 600-point CRS boost, making it a key pathway for those with in-demand skills. CEC Draw #355 Issues 3,000 Invitations with Record-Low Cut-Off Score Just one day after the PNP round, IRCC conducted Express Entry draw #355 on July 8, 2025, targeting Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates. A total of 3,000 ITAs were issued, with a remarkably low CRS cut-off of 518, the lowest since September 2024. Applicants needed to have created their profile before October 2, 2024, at 1:48 a.m. UTC. This draw highlights a positive trend for CEC hopefuls, with scores consistently falling: the previous two CEC draws had cut-offs of 521 and 529. Saskatchewan Minimum Wage Rising to $15.35 by October 2025 In economic news relevant to newcomers, Saskatchewan will raise its minimum wage to $15.35/hour starting October 1, 2025. This follows the province’s indexation formula that adjusts wages based on inflation and average hourly wages. This increase will benefit workers in entry-level positions across sectors like hospitality, agriculture, and retail. For prospective immigrants considering Saskatchewan, the new wage standard reflects a growing and stable local economy. IRCC Updates Proof of Funds Requirements for Express Entry Applicants As of July 7, 2025, IRCC has revised the proof of funds requirements for candidates applying under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Federal Skilled Trades (FST) programs. The new figures are based on 50% of Canada’s Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) and vary by family size. For example, a single applicant now needs to show $15,263 in available funds, while a family of four must demonstrate access to $28,362. Candidates already in the Express Entry pool have until July 28, 2025, to update their profiles without affecting their ranking. These changes reflect new economic benchmarks and reinforce IRCC’s commitment to maintaining financial readiness as a core eligibility factor. Trends in Express Entry Draws: A Balanced Approach So far in 2025, IRCC has alternated between PNP and CEC draws, reflecting a balanced selection strategy. With CRS scores dropping and regular rounds of invitations, there is growing optimism among Express Entry candidates. IRCC has issued 45,201 ITAs through Express Entry so far this year. If you're looking to boost your chances, consider retaking your language test, gaining Canadian work experience, or seeking provincial nomination in alignment with your occupation. Subscribe to Our Podcast and Newsletter Join over 2 million subscribers who rely on Canada Immigration News for timely updates, expert analysis, and real-time insights. Subscribe to the Canada Immigration News Podcast for weekly episodes and sign up for our newsletter to get the latest immigration trends delivered straight to your inbox.

Welcome to episode 83 of the Canada Immigration News Podcast. In this episode, we dive into Canada's recent Express Entry draws, analyze Saskatchewan’s record-breaking employment numbers, and break down Alberta’s latest AAIP invitations across four vital sectors. Canada Express Entry Draw #349 Invited 500 Healthcare and Social Services Professionals On June 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry draw #349, focusing on candidates in healthcare and social services occupations. A total of 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to applicants with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 504. To be eligible, candidates must have submitted their profile before 6:47 a.m. UTC on March 31, 2025, as per the tie-breaking rule. This was the second healthcare-focused draw of the year, emphasizing Canada’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing skilled professionals in high-demand sectors. IRCC Conducted Express Entry Draw #350 Inviting 125 PNP Candidates On June 10, 2025, IRCC conducted Express Entry draw #350, issuing 125 ITAs to candidates nominated through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The cut-off score for this draw was 784, which is 58 points higher than the previous PNP draw. The tie-breaking rule was set at September 12, 2024, at 18:12:15 UTC. As of June 9, 2025, the Express Entry pool had 256,653 active profiles. In total, 35,342 candidates have received invitations in 2025, including 4,992 PNP candidates. Saskatchewan Job Market Booms with Lowest Unemployment and Strong Growth in 2025 Saskatchewan is making headlines for its impressive job market performance in 2025. The province now holds the lowest unemployment rate in Canada, thanks to strategic planning and policy support. In May 2025, the labor force reached 653,900 with 518,800 full-time jobs—the highest on record. Employment among women rose by 10,900, a 3.8% increase from last year, while male employment also climbed by 5,300 or 1.6%. These figures highlight Saskatchewan’s economic resilience and the growing importance of newcomers in maintaining labor force momentum. Alberta Invites 92 Candidates Across 4 Priority Sectors Between May 22 and June 3, 2025, Alberta held four targeted draws under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). These draws invited 92 candidates across high-demand sectors including healthcare, agriculture, technology, and construction. The AAIP’s sector-based approach ensures alignment with Alberta’s economic needs and offers opportunities for skilled workers in key industries to secure a provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residency. Stay Updated with Canada Immigration News! Join over 2 million subscribers who stay informed with the latest updates on Express Entry, PNP draws, immigration policies, and job opportunities in Canada. Subscribe to the Canada Immigration News Podcast for expert insights and in-depth discussions, and sign up for our newsletter to get breaking news delivered straight to your inbox. Stay ahead in your immigration journey with the most trusted updates!