Canada has once again shown its openness to skilled immigrants by inviting new applicants under its Express Entry system. The latest draw, held on August 18, 2025, saw 225 invitations sent to candidates applying through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The lowest-ranked candidate had a score of 800 in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
This news comes after a major change was announced in March 2025, when the Canadian government decided to remove job offer points from the CRS system. This adjustment applies to both new and existing candidates. Under the new rules, extra CRS points for job offers are only given to senior management positions (Major Group 00) with 200 points, or to other skilled occupations with 50 points. For most other candidates, job offers no longer give additional points.
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship immigration program for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents. It is managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and includes four main categories:
Federal Skilled Worker Program
Canadian Experience Class
Federal Skilled Trades Program
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Through Express Entry, Canada uses the CRS scoring system to rank applicants. Points are given based on age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Candidates with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.
The PNP allows provinces and territories to select candidates who meet their local labor needs. Those who are nominated by a province get a significant boost in their CRS score, improving their chances of receiving an invitation.
To apply for PR through the PNP:
Check eligibility for the province you want to live in.
Submit an application to that province or territory.
If approved, receive a Provincial Nomination Certificate.
Use that certificate to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry.
The removal of job offer points is a big shift. For years, having a job offer in Canada gave applicants a clear advantage. Now, the focus is more on skills, education, and adaptability, rather than simply securing a job before arrival.
Experts believe this change makes the system fairer, as many skilled immigrants struggled to find Canadian job offers while still abroad. By adjusting the rules, Canada is opening more opportunities for qualified candidates worldwide.
Draw Number: 361
Date: August 18, 2025
Invitations Issued: 225
Lowest CRS Score: 800
Tie-breaking Date: February 11, 2025
The previous PNP draw on August 6, 2025, also invited 225 candidates, but the lowest score required was 739. This shows that the CRS cut-off can change depending on the number of applicants and the government’s immigration targets.
Canada continues to be one of the most welcoming countries for immigrants. With its strong economy, high living standards, and focus on family-friendly policies, it attracts thousands of skilled workers each year. The Express Entry system ensures that Canada selects people who can contribute to its workforce and community.
For those dreaming of building a life in Canada, the key is to stay informed about changes in immigration rules and prepare applications carefully. While competition is tough, opportunities remain open for skilled workers worldwide.
The WHO warned that the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo is spreading faster than response efforts with o
Kyrgyz and Tajik officials discuss new agricultural collaborations and shared goals during a meeting
A deadly suicide bombing targeting a train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province killed more than 30 pe
Kyrgyzstan engages foreign investors in talks about green energy, industrial growth, and infrastruct
