Canada PNP & Express Entry: 3,500 Invited in Latest Draw
Latest Express Entry Draw Targets Healthcare and Social Services Workers
- IRCC issued 3,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a targeted Express Entry draw
- Draw focused on candidates in healthcare and social services occupations
- Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 462
- Candidates needed to have submitted their profile before December 2, 2024
- Canada has issued 85,723 ITAs through Express Entry so far in 2025
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws lead in frequency this year
Canada continues to welcome skilled workers through its Express Entry system, and the most recent draw held by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is no exception. This time, the spotlight was on professionals in the healthcare and social services sectors—a continued reflection of Canada’s commitment to addressing workforce gaps in critical service areas.
3,500 Healthcare and Social Services Workers Invited
On November 13, 2025, IRCC issued 3,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with experience in healthcare and social services occupations. To qualify for this category-specific draw, applicants needed a minimum CRS score of 462 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before 10:19 p.m. UTC on December 2, 2024.
This draw marks the sixth time in 2025 that IRCC has targeted healthcare and social services professionals through Express Entry—signalling an ongoing effort to fill essential roles in Canada’s growing healthcare sector.
Express Entry Draw Trends in 2025
So far in 2025, there have been a total of 85,723 ITAs issued across various Express Entry draw types. The framework of draws this year shows a clear emphasis on targeted categories, with a strong focus on the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and French-language proficiency.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the draws held by IRCC in 2025 by category:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 21 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 12 |
| French-language proficiency | 7 |
| Healthcare and social services | 6 |
| Education | 2 |
| Trade | 1 |
Where Are Most ITAs Going?
While PNP draws are the most frequent, the highest number of ITAs have been issued to candidates with French-language proficiency and those applying through the Canadian Experience Class. Here’s how ITAs stack up by stream:
| Draw Type | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|
| French-language proficiency | 36,000 |
| Canadian Experience Class | 23,850 |
| Healthcare and social services | 13,292 |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 7,963 |
| Education | 3,500 |
| Trade | 1,250 |
It’s clear that IRCC is using its category-based draws strategically to meet Canada’s evolving economic and demographic needs. Whether it’s bolstering French-speaking communities or supporting the healthcare system, these targeted draws help ensure newcomers can contribute meaningfully right from the start.
Recent Draw Activity: A Busy November
November has been a busy month for Express Entry. The healthcare-focused draw on November 13 followed closely after:
- A Canadian Experience Class draw on November 12 (1,000 ITAs, CRS 533)
- A PNP draw on November 10 (714 ITAs, CRS 738)
- And a French-language proficiency draw on October 29 (6,000 ITAs, CRS 416)
With such a wide range of draw types and competitive CRS cut-offs, there’s a growing emphasis on ensuring your Express Entry profile is as strong as possible. If you’re unsure whether you could qualify, now’s a great time to check your CRS score and see where you stand.
What This Means for Future Applicants
If you’re in healthcare, social services, or another priority occupation, it’s an excellent time to consider or update your Express Entry profile. These targeted draws are tailored to Canada’s current labour market needs—and having the right experience could give you a major advantage.
Even if you’re not in a targeted stream, the variety of draw types this year shows that IRCC is keeping the door open to various skilled workers, especially those with Canadian experience or French fluency. And don’t forget—many provinces are actively seeking candidates through their PNP streams, which can boost your CRS score significantly.
Stay Ahead in the Express Entry Process
With more draws expected before the year ends, staying informed and ready is key to making the most of your opportunity. Take a few minutes to assess your profile and get expert insights on how to improve your CRS score or explore other pathways like the Manitoba PNP.
Curious about your Express Entry profile? Check your competitiveness now and get personalized advice on your next steps toward Canadian permanent residency.
We’ll keep you posted as more Express Entry draws roll out. Until then, stay hopeful, stay prepared, and stay tuned!
