CEC candidates invited in the First Express Entry Draw of October 2025

On October 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the 370th Express Entry draw, issuing 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 534, with the tie-breaking rule applied to candidates who submitted their profiles before February 21, 2025, at 04:01:57 UTC.

This draw is part of IRCC’s ongoing strategy to prioritize skilled workers already integrated into the Canadian labour market, particularly those in sectors facing shortages such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades.

Key Highlights of the October 1 Draw

✔️ Invitation Round: #370

✔️ Date of Round: October 1, 2025

✔️ Type of Draw: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

✔️ Number of ITAs Issued: 1,000

✔️ CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 534

✔️ Tie-Breaking Rule: February 21, 2025, at 04:01:57 UTC

Overview of the Draw

This round is part of a series of CEC-specific draws held throughout 2025. Since August, IRCC has consistently issued 1,000 ITAs per draw, maintaining a CRS cut-off of 534. This strategy demonstrates a deliberate approach to:

• Unlike general draws, which invite candidates from all Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class), program-specific draws like this allow IRCC to align immigration selections with current economic priorities.

• The CEC program targets candidates with Canadian work experience, aligning with IRCC’s focus on retaining skilled workers already integrated into the Canadian workforce.

• IRCC provides a significant opportunity for these individuals to transition to permanent residency, thereby supporting the retention of talent crucial for the country's economic growth.

• Express Entry draw demonstrates IRCC’s commitment to a skilled, experienced workforce in Canada. IRCC not only addresses immediate labour market gaps but also reinforces the importance of program-specific draws in shaping Canada’s immigration landscape in 2025 and beyond.

Impact on Canada’s Immigration Landscape

The October 1 CEC draw carries significant implications for both applicants and Canada’s workforce:

• Retention of Skilled Talent: By targeting candidates with Canadian work experience, the government ensures that skilled professionals already integrated into the labour market can continue contributing to the economy.
  
  

• Sector-Specific Support: Priority is given to sectors such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades, addressing acute labour shortages.
  
  

• Program-Specific Strategy: IRCC is increasingly favoring targeted draws over broader all-program rounds, which may mean longer waits for candidates in other categories like FSW and FSTP.
  
  

• Opportunities for CEC Candidates: Strong CRS profiles have a timely opportunity to secure permanent residency.

This draw indicates a continuation of IRCC’s program-specific selection strategy. Prospective immigrants under the CEC category should remain prepared, keeping their profiles up-to-date to maximize chances in upcoming draws.

Canada Express Entry Draw List 2025