Canada Express Entry 2025: 6,500 ITAs Issued with CRS Cut-Off Set at 428

Canada has issued 6,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the French language proficiency category of Express Entry. This draw, the first of 2025, reflects Canada’s commitment to attracting French-speaking immigrants. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score for this draw was set at 428, creating an accessible opportunity for many applicants.

On February 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted this significant draw. The minimum CRS score of 428 opens doors for numerous French-speaking candidates. The tie-breaking rule was established for February 10, 2025, at 16:41:38 UTC.

Record Number of Invitations Issued

The previous draw focused on French-speaking candidates occurred on December 3, 2024. At that time, only 800 candidates received invitations with a CRS cut-off of 466. The substantial increase in invitations this time signals a growing emphasis on attracting French-speaking talent to Canada.

How Does the Express Entry System Work?

Express Entry serves as Canada’s primary immigration pathway for skilled foreign workers. It manages three major programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked using the CRS. This system evaluates applicants based on several factors:

• Language proficiency (English or French)
• Education
• Work experience
• Age

Other adaptability factors

In cases where multiple candidates share the same lowest CRS score, IRCC uses the profile submission date as a tie-breaker.

Language Proficiency: A Key Factor in CRS Scores

Candidates aiming for Express Entry must take an approved language test. They must meet the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English or the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French. Strong language skills can significantly enhance CRS scores, improving the chances of receiving an ITA.

Latest CRS Score Distribution

As of February 16, 2025, the CRS score distribution among candidates in the pool was as follows:

• 601-1200: 768 candidates
• 501-600: 21,203 candidates
• 451-500: 69,892 candidates
• 401-450: 64,222 candidates
• 0-300: 5,726 candidates

These figures highlight intense competition among candidates, especially within the 451-500 CRS range, which has the largest number of applicants.

PNP Draws Also Continue

In addition to Express Entry, Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) remains a vital pathway to permanent residency. The latest PNP draw on February 17, 2025, issued 646 invitations with a CRS cut-off score of 750. The PNP allows provinces to select skilled workers to address local labor market needs.

If nominated, candidates receive an extra 600 CRS points, virtually ensuring an ITA in a future Express Entry draw.

What’s Next for Express Entry Applicants?

Canada typically conducts Express Entry draws every two weeks. With a strong focus on French-speaking immigrants, candidates proficient in French should seize this opportunity. They can improve their CRS scores and keep their profiles updated to enhance their chances of success.