First Express Entry Draw in August: Canada Immigration Update

Great news for international job seekers! Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently issued more invitations to apply (ITAs) via the Express Entry system. This latest draw focused on candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), offering 225 ITAs to individuals in this category.

To qualify for this draw, candidates needed to secure a minimum score of 739 in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This points-based system evaluates factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. Candidates also needed to create their Express Entry profile before 6:35 a.m. UTC on April 23, 2025.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers to gain permanent residency (PR). It allows applicants to be evaluated based on a points system and invites those with the highest scores to apply for PR. Understanding this system can significantly aid your job search in Canada.

Recent Trends in Express Entry Draws

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 49,628 ITAs. This year’s draws have heavily focused on PNP candidates, making it an excellent option for international workers to consider. PNPs allow provinces to nominate individuals with specific skills that meet local labour market needs, providing a pathway to PR.

The Express Entry draws this year have included a mix of categories, with the majority dedicated to the PNP, along with draws for candidates with French-language proficiency and those in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). These categories cater to various skills and experiences, broadening opportunities for job seekers.

How to Get Sponsored to Work in Canada

If you’re considering moving to Canada for work, many employers are looking for candidates willing to take advantage of visa sponsorship. This process often requires an employer to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA assesses whether hiring a foreign worker will negatively impact the Canadian job market. As an international applicant, securing a job offer from a company willing to sponsor you can be a great first step.

Exploring Job Opportunities

If you’re just starting your job search, our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, offers a range of employment listings that include visa support for international applicants. Every job listing comes with the assurance of visa sponsorship, which is vital for navigating Canada’s immigration system.

Visa Pathways and Categories

Beyond Express Entry and PNPs, Canada also has other avenues for skilled workers. The CEC is particularly appealing for those with previous Canadian work experience, while specific category draws focus on critical sectors like healthcare and technology. Understanding these categories can help you target your job search effectively.

For instance, recent Express Entry draws have had a consistent focus on healthcare professionals, making it a promising area if that aligns with your skills. If you’re a healthcare worker, this could be the perfect time to explore opportunities in provincial healthcare systems across Canada.

Keeping Up with the Developments

Stay updated on the latest Express Entry draws and changes in immigration policies. The patterns of the draws show a preference for specific sectors, so aligning your skills with current demands can increase your chances of receiving an ITA.

As you navigate through this process, remember that Canada values skilled workers and is continuously looking to fill gaps in the market. Being prepared with a solid Express Entry profile, understanding LMIA requirements, and exploring job listings on sites like VisaJobsCanada.com can put you on the right track.

What do you think?

Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Canada? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.

VJC-Express Entry Updates