Canada’s immigration system is undergoing big changes in 2025, and the Express Entry program remains the primary pathway for skilled workers. A recently released IRCC internal memo provides insights into the draw schedule, ITA allocations, CRS cut-offs, and category priorities for the rest of the year.
If you are planning to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry, these updates are essential. Let’s break down the facts, numbers, and Harry’s expert suggestions to help you maximize your chances.
Quick Reference Summary – 2025 Express Entry
1. Remaining ITA Allocations (As of August 2025)
| Category | Total ITAs (2025) | ITAs Issued | Remaining ITAs | Opportunity Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education Occupations | 3,000 | 1,000 | 2,000 | 🔵 High |
| Healthcare & Social Services | 8,000 | 7,500 | 500 | 🟡 Limited |
| Trades Occupations | 3,300 | 0 | 3,300 | 🟢 Very High |
| French Proficiency | Ongoing | 21,000+ issued | Unlimited | 🔵 High |
My Insight:
“Trades and education occupations are the biggest opportunities in 2025. Candidates in these categories should apply immediately while ITAs are still available.”
2. Upcoming Express Entry Draw Schedule
| Expected Date | Type of Draw | Estimated ITAs | Predicted CRS Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2–3, 2025 | PNP-Only | 1,000+ | 730–800 |
| Mid-Sep 2025 | Trades Category | 1,500+ | 440–470 |
| End-Sep 2025 | French Proficiency | 2,000+ | 470–490 |
| Oct 2025 | Education Category | 1,000+ | 450–480 |
My Insight:
“PNP draws are coming first, but the real game-changer will be the trades and education category draws starting mid-September. Prepare your documents now so you don’t miss the opportunity.”
3. Recent CRS Cut-Off Trends (August 2025 Draws)
| Date | Category | ITAs Issued | Minimum CRS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 19, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services | 2,500 | 470 |
| Aug 18, 2025 | PNP-Only | 192 | 800 |
| Aug 8, 2025 | French Proficiency | 2,500 | 481 |
| Aug 7, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class | 1,000 | 534 |
| Aug 6, 2025 | PNP-Only | 225 | 739 |
My Insight:
“French proficiency draws remain consistent and competitive. Healthcare candidates also had great opportunities in August, but trades and education are the next big focus.”
My Top Suggestions for 2025 Applicants
1. Target Category-Based Draws
- If you’re in trades, education, or healthcare, you have higher chances even with a lower CRS score.
- 3,300 ITAs for trades are still untouched — the biggest advantage right now.
2. Apply for PNPs
- Provincial Nominee Programs can add 600 CRS points.
- Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and BC are actively issuing PNP nominations.
3. Improve Your French Skills
- Over 21,000 ITAs have been issued in French-only draws in 2025.
- Even basic French can lower your required CRS and increase your chances.
4. Keep Your Profile Updated
- Upload language scores, ECA reports, and work experience as soon as possible.
- Updated profiles often get priority in Express Entry draws.
5. Act Now for 2026 Targets
- ITAs issued after August 2025 will count toward 2026 immigration levels.
- Early applicants will benefit from priority processing in 2026.
Final Thoughts by Harry
The Express Entry 2025 schedule gives us a clear roadmap of IRCC’s priorities for the rest of the year. With thousands of ITAs still available — especially in trades, education, and French proficiency — the next few months are critical.
At Core Immigration Services, we specialize in:
- Profile evaluation & CRS improvement strategies
- Choosing the right Express Entry category
- PNP application assistance
- Ongoing updates on draw schedules
📧 Contact Harry – Manager & Immigration Operations Lead
📍 Core Immigration Services – Amritsar Branch
📞 +91-95696-39100 | ✉️ harry@coreimmigration.com
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