Express Entry in 2025: What You Need to Know About the New Category-Based Invitations
Canada’s Express Entry system is evolving—and fast. In 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced category-based invitations, a significant shift from the traditional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)-only approach. Now, as we move through 2025, these targeted draws are becoming a defining feature of Canada’s immigration landscape.
But what do these changes mean for you? Whether you’re already in the Express Entry pool or considering applying, understanding how these new categories work could be the key to unlocking your Canadian permanent residency.
What Are Category-Based Draws?
Under the old system, invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued primarily based on CRS scores—meaning the highest-scoring candidates were invited, regardless of their background.
Now, IRCC has started issuing ITAs based on specific occupational categories, language skills, and other targeted criteria. The goal is to fill urgent labour shortages in key sectors and ensure that newcomers are set up for success.
Who’s Being Invited in 2025?
So far in 2025, the most common category-based draws have focused on the following groups:
- Healthcare occupations (e.g. nurses, doctors, physiotherapists)
- STEM professionals (e.g. software engineers, data scientists)
- Trades workers (e.g. electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
- Transport workers (e.g. truck drivers, crane operators)
- Agricultural and agri-food workers
- French-language proficiency (regardless of occupation)
These categories are expected to evolve throughout the year, depending on labour market needs.
How Do Category-Based Draws Work?
To be eligible for a category-based invitation, you still need to:
- Be in the Express Entry pool under one of the three main programs (FSW, CEC, FSTP)
- Meet the criteria for the specific category, such as occupation or language ability
Then, within that category, IRCC will rank candidates using the CRS. The minimum score for these draws is often lower than traditional all-program draws, meaning you might have a better chance if you qualify under a targeted category.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada or are already in the pool:
- Update your Express Entry profile to reflect your current job title, NOC code, and language test scores.
- Identify if you fall into any priority categories—especially if you work in healthcare, STEM, or trades.
- Consider improving your French—French language draws remain active and often invite candidates with lower CRS scores.
Even if your CRS score is under 500, you may still receive an invitation if you’re in a high-priority category.
Is This Good News?
For many candidates, yes. This new approach helps individuals who may not have extremely high CRS scores but offer valuable skills that Canada needs now.
However, it also means that simply having a strong CRS score might not be enough if you don’t fall into a targeted group—especially as more of the ITAs shift toward these categories.
How We Can Help
Our team has successfully guided candidates through the evolving Express Entry system, including:
- Identifying if you qualify for a priority category
- Improving your CRS score with tailored strategies
- Creating a strong, accurate profile to avoid refusals or delays
Final Thoughts
Express Entry is no longer one-size-fits-all. In 2025, targeted, strategic applications are more important than ever. If your skills match one of Canada’s top needs, now might be the best time to apply.
If you’re unsure how the new system affects your chances, book a consultation with one of our experts.
