The New Express Entry program remains the pathway for more skilled workers as Canada’s economy grows and more diverse communities develop. On January 8, 2025, the first Express Entry draw of the year targeted only those applying through the Canadian Experience Class. This promises to be another exciting year under the Canada-Express Entry route as it provides the opportunity to welcome the high-skilled entrants who already have experience and a history within the country contributing to its achievements.
Key Highlights of the January 8, 2025, New Express Entry Draw
In the landmark draw round #332, IRCC issued 1,350 ITA to candidates under the CEC. The cut-off score for this round was 542 points, an increase of 3 points from the previous CEC-specific draw on November 19, 2024.
This round tie-break rule is applied to candidates whose profiles were submitted before 01:10:06 UTC on December 7, 2024. It emphasizes fairness and transparency by making sure that applicants with the same score on the Comprehensive Ranking System have equal opportunities to participate.
As of the draw date, the Express Entry pool was 227,763 strong, representing the great interest among the world’s skilled workers looking to move to Canada. The total ITAs issued in 2025 now rise to 1,821 through two draws.
Why is Canadian Experience Class a Priority for IRCC?
One of the most sought immigration streams designed for skilled workers who have had experience working in Canada is the Canadian Experience Class. CEC candidates usually possess solid ties to the country such as work experience in Canada, language proficiency and familiarity with the societal norms of Canada, making them a perfect candidate for a permanent residence due to the ease of accessing Canada’s workforce and communities.
The emphasis of IRCC on CEC candidates is a reflection of the need to retain skilled talent already in Canada. Targeting this group ensures a smoother transition for new permanent residents and encourages economic growth and innovation.
Opportunities for CEC Candidates
This latest draw is, therefore, a golden opportunity for any CEC candidates who meet the CRS cut-off score to take a step closer to permanent residency. Given the Canadian work experience they have, that makes them well-positioned to be successful and to thrive in Canada’s job market.
The January 8 draw highlighted a need for CEC candidates to make sure their Express Entry pool ranking remains competitive. Improvement in either language test, gaining additional experience, or the pursuit of post-secondary education in Canada can lead to substantial CRS increases. For potential applicants targeting obtaining an ITA in the subsequent draws, every such step shall have meaningful added value.
Benefits of Becoming a Permanent Resident in Canada
Canada has rightly earned its ranking as the destination for immigrants because of its strong economy, fine quality of life, and liberal approach towards immigration. CEC candidates are provided with the following reasons to acquire permanent residency:
- Stability and Security: A permanent resident holds a special place in Canada’s world-class healthcare system and other social benefits, which can really help put one’s mind at ease and be secure.
- Career Advancement: Permanent residency unlocks access to much more career prospects and positions which involve long-term commitment.
- Pathway to citizenship: being a permanent resident opens the path for the pursuit of Canadian citizenship that has even wider rights and freedom.
- Opportunities for Family: Your permanent residence status can also help your immediate family members in their education, healthcare, and many other ways.
Is Canadian experience class still open?
As of January 2025, the CEC is open and continues to be an essential pathway for permanent residency for candidates with Canadian work experience. Applications for economic immigration programs are governed by the Express Entry system; recent draws issued invitations to candidates under the CEC, marking the program as an integral component of Canada’s immigration strategy. For example, in August 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released 3,300 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to CEC candidates in one draw. This shows that the CEC is an active and a viable pathway for skilled workers looking to settle permanently in Canada.
Take the Next Step Today
The recent CEC-specific Express Entry draw is a reminder of Canada’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled workers. If you’re ready to take the next step toward permanent residency, now is the time to act.
Does CEC come under Express Entry?
Yes, it does fall under the Express Entry system, which is Canada’s main entry program for skilled immigrants wishing to settle in that country permanently. CEC targets individuals who have one year of skilled work experience in Canada and who are interested in making the transition to permanent residency. It is quite helpful for international graduates and temporary foreign workers already in Canada.
The New Express Entry system will have CEC candidates included in its revamped system under which they enjoy a faster processing time and compete for the ITA through a comprehensive ranking system. If you fall within the eligibility criteria for this stream, then the CEC under New Express Entry would provide you with an efficient access to permanent residency.
If you want to know more details about “Ottawa Holds New Express Entry Draw for Canadian Experience Class in 2025“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
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