An Express Entry draw is a selection process used by the Canadian government to invite skilled workers to apply for permanent residence in Canada. In this process, candidates who have submitted profiles to the Express Entry pool are ranked based on a points system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The government holds draws regularly, selecting the highest-ranking candidates and sending them invitations to apply for permanent residency in Canada. These draws help Canada choose skilled immigrants who can contribute to the economy and settle successfully in the country.

On October 29 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held one of its largest single draws of the year under the Express Entry system, issuing 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian permanent residence. The draw particularly targeted candidates with French‑language proficiency, and any profile eligible under the main Express Entry programs, Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), who had submitted a profile before 3:27 p.m. UTC on September 8, 2025. The cut‑off Comprehensive Ranking System score was 416. This is the third-largest draw so far in 2025 under the Express Entry system. As of this draw, out of the 2025 ITAs issued, candidates in the French-language proficiency category have received 36,000.

This draw signals a strategic shift by IRCC. The large volume of invitations tied to French proficiency suggests that immigration policy is not only about numbers, but also about linguistic diversity and national goals. According to projections, Canada is on track to meet, and possibly exceed, its target of new Francophone permanent residents through Express Entry. A CRS cut-off of 416 is comparatively accessible for a category draw. Candidates who may not have scored high enough under the “all-program” draws (which often see much higher thresholds) may now find this an attractive option, provided they meet the French-language and other eligibility requirements.

If you’re in the Express Entry pool and especially if you have French‑language ability, this draw is encouraging. It shows that Canada is willing to issue large batches of invitations and that the CRS bar can remain accessible under category‑based draws. However, the competition remains high, and preparation is key. Keep your profile updated, strengthen your credentials, and stay ready for the next opportunity.

Practical Tips

• Keep your Express Entry profile updated. • Submit your profile early- you must be in the pool before the tie-breaker date to qualify for a draw. • Track category-based draws- IRCC may release new ones at any time based on labour market needs. For everyone invited, congratulations! And for those still waiting, consider this a signal to refine your profile and strategy. Canada’s immigration journey continues, and this draw has added a bold bookmark to 2025’s story.