Canada has just conducted a new Express Entry draw, bringing fresh opportunities for skilled workers looking to secure permanent residence (PR). If you’ve applied through the Express Entry system, now is the time to check whether you’ve received an Invitation to Apply (ITA). With thousands of candidates in the pool, competition remains high, and every point in your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score matters.
For those unfamiliar with Canada’s Express Entry, this system manages applications for three economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The latest draw has invited candidates with a CRS cut-off score of 736, specifically for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.
Also Check: Earning ₹10 Lakh Salary & ₹3 Lakh LTCG? Shocking Tax You’ll Pay in FY 2025-26 – Check Now!
What is Express Entry and How Does it Work?
Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system for skilled workers. It operates as a points-based system, ranking candidates based on age, education, work experience, language ability, and other factors. The highest-ranked candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in periodic draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Express Entry Programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) – For skilled professionals with work experience abroad.
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST) – For skilled tradespeople with qualifications in demand.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For applicants with Canadian work experience.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – For candidates nominated by a province, which adds 600 CRS points.
Latest Express Entry Draw: Who Was Invited?
The March 17, 2025, draw was a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-specific draw, meaning all 536 invitations went to PNP nominees. Since PNP candidates automatically receive 600 additional CRS points, the cut-off score was 736, which means candidates had at least 136 base CRS points before their PNP boost.
This is the third Express Entry draw this month, following a French-speaking candidates’ draw on March 6 and another PNP-focused draw on March 3.
Also Check: Trump’s Global Tariff Strategy: Canadian Officials Reveal Their Latest Insights
How to Check If You Got an ITA
Follow these simple steps to check your Express Entry status:
1. Log in to Your IRCC Account
- Visit the IRCC website: Canada Express Entry Portal
- Enter your credentials (GCKey or Sign-In Partner login).
2. Check Your Messages
- Look for a new message titled “Invitation to Apply”.
- If you see an ITA notification, congratulations! You now have 60 days to submit your complete PR application.
3. Verify Your CRS Score
- If you didn’t receive an invitation, check the cut-off score and compare it to your CRS score.
- If your score is below 736, you might need to improve your profile (explained below).
What to Do If You Didn’t Get an ITA
1. Improve Your CRS Score
If your score is below the cut-off, here are some proven ways to boost your CRS ranking:
- Get a Provincial Nomination (PNP) → Adds 600 points.
- Retake Your Language Test (IELTS/CELPIP) → Higher scores add up to 100 extra points.
- Gain Additional Work Experience → More experience increases your CRS score.
- Get an LMIA-Approved Job Offer → Adds 50–200 points.
- Pursue Further Education in Canada → A diploma or degree from Canada gives an edge.
2. Enter a PNP Stream
Many provinces have separate PNP streams that target candidates with specific job skills. Popular ones include:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
- British Columbia PNP (BC PNP)
- Alberta Express Entry Stream
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
3. Stay Updated on Future Draws
- IRCC frequently adjusts CRS cut-off scores based on labor market needs.
- Check the IRCC website and reliable sources like CIC News for updates.
(FAQs)
1. How Often Does Canada Conduct Express Entry Draws?
Usually every two weeks, but frequency can vary.
2. How Long is an ITA Valid?
You have 60 days to submit your PR application after receiving an ITA.
3. What is a Good CRS Score in 2025?
A score above 475 is competitive, but PNPs can help lower-ranked candidates.
4. What Happens if I Miss an ITA Deadline?
Your ITA expires, and you must re-enter the pool.
Also Check: Schools to EXPOSE the Truth! UK Kids to Be Trained in Spotting Fake News
