Canada Express Entry: 1,000 ITAs for Healthcare Jobs
IRCC Issues 1,000 Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draw for Healthcare and Social Services
- IRCC invited 1,000 candidates in a targeted draw for healthcare and social services roles.
- The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 476.
- Candidates needed to have submitted their Express Entry profile before November 26, 2025, at 7:44 a.m. UTC.
- This marks the third Express Entry draw in December 2025.
- Over 106,000 total Invitations to Apply (ITAs) have been issued so far in 2025.
- Healthcare and social services continue to be a top priority in Canada’s immigration strategy.
Canada continues to welcome skilled professionals to help fill high-demand roles, and the latest Express Entry draw is another example of this commitment. On December 12, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a category-based draw under the Express Entry system, issuing 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the healthcare and social services sector.
Details of the December 12th Express Entry Draw
If you’re a healthcare or social services professional looking to settle in Canada, the latest Express Entry draw might be of particular interest. Here’s what candidates needed to qualify:
- Minimum CRS Score: 476
- Profile Submission Deadline: Before 7:44 a.m. UTC on November 26, 2025
This draw was part of a targeted approach focusing on specific occupational sectors, helping Canada address mounting labour shortages in critical services like healthcare — a sector that continues to feel the strain post-pandemic.
Express Entry Trends in 2025
So far, 2025 has been an exceptionally active year for Express Entry draws. With 106,599 ITAs issued and counting, it’s clear that IRCC is ramping up efforts to attract global talent across a range of professions.
The majority of draws this year have centred on the following streams:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 22 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 14 |
| French-language Proficiency | 8 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 6 |
| Education | 2 |
| Trade | 1 |
It’s worth noting that while the PNP stream leads in the number of draws, French-speaking candidates and those with Canadian work experience (CEC) have benefited the most in terms of total ITAs issued.
Breakdown of ITAs Issued by Stream in 2025
| Draw Type | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|
| French Language Proficiency | 42,000 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 30,850 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 13,500 |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 9,376 |
| Education | 3,500 |
| Trade | 1,250 |
This shows a clear preference for French-speaking candidates and those with Canadian work experience, followed by healthcare professionals — a reflection of Canada’s immigration priorities for 2025.
Recent Express Entry Highlights: A Busy December So Far
The December 12 draw was the third Express Entry draw this month, and it’s following closely on the heels of some major ones:
- December 10: A Canadian Experience Class draw invited 6,000 candidates — the largest in over 16 months.
- December 8: The largest PNP draw of the year was held.
- November 28: A massive draw invited 6,000 candidates who demonstrated strong French language skills.
Clearly, IRCC is closing out the year with a strong push to meet its immigration targets, especially in key occupational categories.
What This Means for Healthcare and Social Services Professionals
If you’re working in healthcare or social services — whether you’re a nurse, social worker, or allied health professional — this is a golden opportunity. Canada’s need for skilled professionals in these sectors is growing, and the immigration system is increasingly recognizing this through targeted draws.
Even if you didn’t receive an ITA in this round, don’t be discouraged. The trend suggests more draws are likely on the horizon. Now is the time to make sure your Express Entry profile is up-to-date, and that you meet the eligibility criteria for your targeted stream.
Looking Ahead: How to Improve Your Chances
Wondering how to become a more competitive candidate? Here are some helpful tips:
- Boost your CRS score: Consider ways to improve your language test results, add work experience, or pursue a provincial nomination.
- Consider the Manitoba PNP: Provincial programs like Manitoba’s can give you a significant CRS boost.
- Keep your documents ready: Ensure all paperwork is accurate and timely. You don’t want to miss out due to documentation delays.
- Seek support: Consulting with an immigration expert can give you a strategic edge in navigating the system.
Final Thoughts
The December 12 draw is another strong signal that Canada is committed to welcoming skilled workers in essential sectors. If you’re in the healthcare or social services field, your skills are in demand — and Express Entry is one of the fastest ways to make your Canadian dream a reality.
Make sure your Express Entry profile reflects your strengths and is aligned with current immigration trends. With more targeted draws expected in the coming months, now’s the perfect time to get ready.
Check How Competitive Your Express Entry Profile Is
Want more updates on immigration draws and Express Entry strategies? Be sure to check out our latest immigration news and stay ahead of the curve.
