Canada has conducted its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw of 2025. The draw, which took place on January 8, issued 1,350 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates eligible under the CEC program. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 542, marking a competitive threshold for applicants.
Details Of The Draw
Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Cut-off CRS Score |
8-Jan | Canadian Experience Class | 1,350 | 542 |
This draw follows the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw that took place on January 7 in which 471 candidates were invited with a minimum CRS score of 793. These draws signify a gradual increase in activity after a slow December during which fewer ITAs were issue.
A Step Towards Meeting Immigration Goals
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an immigration program under Canada’s Express Entry system, which is designed for skilled workers who have gained work experience in Canada and want to become permanent residents. It recognizes the value of Canadian work experience as a key factor for successful integration into Canadian society and the economy.
Under the Levels Plan for 2025, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will emphasize the “In-Canada Focus” allocation, prioritizing candidates already residing in Canada. This includes applicants from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), with the potential to invite candidates from two additional Express Entry programs. Additionally, the “Federal Economic Priorities” allocation will focus on candidates who align with Canada’s labour market and demographic goals. These individuals will be selected through category-based invitations within the Express Entry system, ensuring a strategic approach to addressing the country’s economic needs.
IRCC has also changed the groups that it will prioritize under category-based selections.
The priority categories this year include:
- – Healthcare occupations;
- – Trades occupations; and
- – French-language proficiency.
Understanding the CRS Score Threshold
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is a points-based mechanism used to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability are considered in determining an individual’s score.
For this draw, the CRS cut-off score was set at 542, reflecting the competitive nature of the pool and the high qualifications of candidates. Those who received ITAs can now proceed to submit their applications for permanent residence, taking them one step closer to achieving their goal of settling in Canada.