IRCC Invites 536 PNP Candidates in Express Entry Draw #340
March 19, 2025
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to bolster the labor force in Canada by issuing Invitations to Apply (ITA) to skilled workers via the Express Entry system. On March 17, 2025, IRCC conducted the most recent Express Entry draw #340, inviting 536 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The draw is a testament to Canada’s continued strategy of choosing skilled and talented individuals who can drive Canada’s economy and labor force.
Key Highlights of Express Entry Draw #340
- Date of Draw: March 17, 2025
- Number of Issued ITAs: 536
- Minimum CRS Score: 736
- Tie-breaking Rule: March 12, 2025, 14:02:14 UTC
- Total Express Entry Profiles as of March 16, 2025: 236,909
- Total ITAs Issued in 2025: 23,183 (2,833 PNP candidates included)
CRS Score Requirement and Tie-Breaking Rule
The CRS cut-off in this round was 736 points, an increase of 69 points compared to the last PNP-targeted draw. Candidates who appeared in the Express Entry draw #340, receiving a nomination from a Canadian province, were given 600 additional CRS points, drastically increasing their possibility of an invitation. The tie breaker provision guaranteed that in case several candidates shared the same CRS score, those whose profiles were submitted prior to March 12, 2025, at 14:02:14 UTC were prioritized.
Express Entry and the Importance of PNP
The Express Entry system is still one of the most effective channels for skilled workers to gain permanent residence in Canada. It processes applications for three federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
To supplement this, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) also ensures that provinces pick candidates who address their economic and labor market demands. Most of the provinces have specific PNP streams corresponding with Express Entry draw #340 that enable them to nominate skilled candidates who plan to settle in the province.
Why Is the PNP Draw Significant?
The PNP draws are very advantageous to lower CRS-scoring candidates, as a provincial nomination gives an extra 600 CRS points, greatly enhancing their possibilities of getting an ITA for permanent residency. In Express Entry draw #340, most candidates took advantage of this benefit with nominations that raised their overall scores.
As Canada’s demand for skilled professionals increases, the provinces actively recruit candidates with specializations in in-demand fields, such as healthcare, technology, engineering, and trades. Through this process, Canada is assured of continuing to bring in high-caliber professionals who can be part of the country’s economic growth.
Canada’s Express Entry Trends in 2025
As of March 16, 2025, there were 236,909 Express Entry pool profiles, reflecting the increased interest of skilled workers to come to Canada. IRCC has so far in 2025 issued 23,183 ITAs, 2,833 of which have been issued to PNP candidates. These statistics reflect that Canada is committed to welcoming skilled immigrants and filling labor gaps through targeted immigration programs.
How to Improve Your Chances in Express Entry?
For candidates looking to receive an ITA in future draws, here are some strategic steps to enhance their CRS scores:
1. Apply for a Provincial Nomination
Getting a provincial nomination is the most efficient route to enhancing your CRS score by 600 points. Study various PNP streams and apply to the one that aligns with your qualifications and work experience.
A nomination can greatly improve your prospects of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in an Express Entry draw #340, bringing you closer to securing Canadian permanent residency.
2. Improve Language Proficiency
Higher IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF scores increase one’s CRS points by a great deal. One might consider retaking the test to get a better score in the English or French proficiency test, as this will enhance one’s chances of receiving an invitation in draw #340.
3. Gain Additional Work Experience
Candidates with more years of skilled work experience receive higher points. If possible, gain additional relevant experience in your field.
4. Pursue Further Education in Canada
Achieving a degree, diploma, or certificate in Canada can enhance CRS points and render candidates more desirable to employers and provinces. Furthermore, obtaining Canadian education can improve chances of immigration programs, particularly after an Express Entry draw #340, in which candidates with good academic records and Canadian experience have better chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
5. Secure a Job Offer in Canada
A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add up to 200 CRS points, increasing the likelihood of receiving an ITA.
Why Choose Canada for Immigration?
One of the most cherished destinations for skilled immigrants is Canada because of:
- Strong economy and job market
- High quality of life and safety
- World-class education and healthcare
- Welcoming multicultural environment
- Unobstructed avenues to permanent residence and citizenship.
Start Your Immigration Process Today!
If you are a highly trained professional and want to immigrate to Canada, it is the right time to act! With us, you can get expert advice on how to handle the Express Entry draw #340, PNP applications, and work permit procedures.
If you want to know more details about “IRCC Invites 536 PNP Candidates in Express Entry Draw #340“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
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