The new year has kicked off with renewed momentum for Canada’s Express Entry system. Following a quieter December, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has resumed issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under Express Entry, signalling its focus on meeting the ambitious immigration targets set for 2025. This update delves into the recent developments, analyzes the draw trends, and provides insights into the composition of the Express Entry pool as of January 2025.
December 2024: A Month of Selective Draws
In December, IRCC conducted three Express Entry draws, significantly fewer than the six held in both October and November. These draws targeted specific candidate categories, emphasizing the prioritization of enhanced Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and French-language proficiency—key themes that have dominated Express Entry trends in recent months.
A total of 2,561 ITAs were issued in December across the following draws:
| Draw Number | Date | Draw Type | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off |
| 328 | December 2, 2024 | Provincial Nominee Program | 676 | 705 |
| 329 | December 3, 2024 | French Language Proficiency | 800 | 466 |
| 330 | December 16, 2024 | Provincial Nominee Program | 1,085 | 727 |
While Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates were not invited in December, this could be attributed to pending policy adjustments, such as the possible removal of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for valid job offers. However, IRCC has yet to confirm this speculation.
Trends Shaping Express Entry
The sustained focus on PNP and French-language proficiency candidates reflects Canada’s strategic commitment to addressing regional labour shortages and promoting Francophone immigration outside Quebec. These priorities align with the “In-Canada Focus” allocation outlined in the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, reinforcing the government’s goal of strengthening the Canadian workforce and community diversity.
Express Entry Pool Composition: January 2025
As of January 8, 2025, the Express Entry pool consisted of 227,763 candidates, with a notable increase of 6,453 profiles since mid-December. Over half of these new profiles scored within the 501-600 CRS range, indicating a rise in highly competitive applicants.
| CRS Score Range | Number of Candidates |
| 0-300 | 5,554 |
| 301-350 | 21,788 |
| 351-400 | 50,607 |
| 401-410 | 11,611 |
| 411-420 | 12,224 |
| 421-430 | 11,901 |
| 431-440 | 13,030 |
| 441-450 | 11,938 |
| 451-460 | 12,397 |
| 461-470 | 13,034 |
| 471-480 | 14,965 |
| 481-490 | 12,492 |
| 491-500 | 12,811 |
| 501-600 | 23,240 |
| 601-1200 | 171 |
Insights for Candidates
Understanding the distribution of scores can help candidates gauge their competitiveness within the Express Entry system. For instance:
- High CRS Scores: Candidates in the 501-600 range are highly competitive and more likely to receive ITAs in upcoming draws.
- Mid-Range Scores: Those scoring between 45 -and 500 should consider strategies to boost their CRS score, such as obtaining a provincial nomination or improving language test results.
- Lower Scores: Applicants in the lower ranges may explore alternative pathways, including Provincial Nominee Programs tailored to specific labour needs.
Why Choose SWEC for Your Canada PR Journey?
Navigating the intricacies of Canada’s Express Entry system can be overwhelming, but SWEC is here to simplify the process. As a trusted name in visa consultancy, SWEC offers expert guidance to help you enhance your CRS score, secure provincial nominations, and prepare a competitive application.
Our proven track record of success and personalized support ensures that your dream of settling in Canada is within reach.
A Promising Start to 2025
The first month of 2025 highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled immigrants who can contribute to the nation’s economic and cultural growth. With Express Entry draws resuming and pool compositions shifting, now is the time to strategize and optimize your application.
Let SWEC be your partner in this transformative journey. Contact us today to kickstart your Canada PR process and turn your aspirations into reality.
