Important Update: Canada Invites More Healthcare and Social Services Workers Through Express Entry
Hello everyone, and welcome back to the blog! It's an exciting time in Canadian immigration, with news breaking fast and policy evolving..
Today, we have important news regarding how Canada invites skilled individuals to become permanent residents. This information comes from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Canada uses a system called Express Entry to manage applications from skilled workers who wish to live here permanently. It's a points-based system where individuals earn points for their skills, education, work experience, and language abilities.
On June 4, 2025, IRCC conducted a specific invitation round, targeting individuals in healthcare and social services occupations. Canada has an ongoing need for professionals in these areas.
Details of the Recent Express Entry Draw
Here are the key points from the latest draw:
Draw Type: This was a category-based selection for Healthcare and Social Services occupations.
Invitations Issued: 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were sent out.
Minimum CRS Score: Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 504 to be invited.
Tie-breaking Rule: To be considered, profiles needed to have been submitted before 6:47 a.m., Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on March 31, 2025.
This specific draw highlights Canada's focus on filling essential roles within its healthcare and social services sectors.
Understanding Express Entry Draws in 2025: Key Trends
So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 35,217 ITAs through the Express Entry system. Reviewing the draws this year helps us understand Canada's immigration priorities:
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Dominance: The PNP Express Entry stream has been very active, with 9 draws so far. Candidates nominated by a Canadian province receive an additional 600 CRS points, which significantly increases their chances of receiving an ITA.
Category-Based Selection: Beyond the recent healthcare and social services draw, Canada has also conducted specific draws for Education occupations and those with French-language proficiency. This approach allows Canada to target individuals with skills in high-demand areas.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals who have already gained work experience in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class remains a key pathway, with 4 draws conducted this year.
The Express Entry Process: Timelines to Consider
Once an individual receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA), they have 60 days to submit their complete application for permanent residence. The Canadian government's goal is to process these applications within six months from the date a complete application is received.
An Express Entry profile remains active for one year. If an ITA is not received within this period, candidates can submit a new profile, provided they continue to meet eligibility requirements.
Conclusion: Optimizing Your Express Entry Profile
These recent draws underline Canada's strategic focus on addressing specific labour needs through its immigration system. If you are considering immigrating to Canada through Express Entry, it is important to:
Ensure your profile is accurate and optimized to reflect all your qualifications.
Determine if your occupation falls within a priority category for targeted draws.
Explore options for Provincial Nominee Programs that align with your skills.
Understanding these trends can help you better position yourself for a successful application for Canadian permanent residence.