Canada conducted a new round of invitations under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) on November 26, 2025, a draw that signals slightly improved chances for workers already in the country. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) and set the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score at 531, marking the lowest CEC cut-off since July.
The draw also comes just two weeks after the November 12 round, where the cut-off stood at 533, indicating a slow but meaningful easing in competitiveness. This draw aligns with IRCC’s steady end-of-year activity, reinforcing Canada’s reliance on skilled temporary residents to stabilise its workforce and meet ongoing labour market needs.
Details of the November 26 CEC Draw
Invitation Round: #381
Date of Round: November 26, 2025
Type of Draw: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Number of ITAs Issued: 1,000
CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 531
Tie-Breaking Rule: October 08, 2025, at 19:02:26 UTC
Overview & Purpose of CEC Draws
CEC draws are a key pillar of Canada’s economic immigration strategy. They are designed to prioritise applicants who already have skilled work experience within Canada, individuals who are more likely to integrate quickly, adapt seamlessly, and contribute immediately to the labour market.
By conducting routine CEC draws, IRCC aims to convert temporary workers into permanent residents, especially those familiar with Canadian workplaces, language requirements, and professional standards. This approach ensures that high-skilled talent already filling important roles can remain in the country long-term.
In 2025, IRCC has issued more than 88,000 invitations across all Express Entry categories combined, reflecting an expansive push toward economic immigration and talent retention. The November 26 draw plays directly into this strategy.
Impact on Immigration & Applicants
For candidates, especially those already employed in Canada, this draw brings encouraging signals. A drop to 531 increases the likelihood of selection for individuals whose scores previously hovered just below the cut-off. With the year nearing its end, this slight dip could indicate more responsive adjustments by IRCC based on pool composition and labour demand.
From Canada’s perspective, maintaining momentum in CEC supports labour market stability. Many industries continue facing shortages, and converting temporary workers into permanent residents helps ensure long-term workforce continuity and economic resilience.
Broader 2025 Express Entry Trends
This draw is the second CEC-only draw in November, diverging from earlier patterns where IRCC routinely issued one program-specific round per month. Throughout 2025, IRCC has also used a mix of general draws, French-language preference rounds, category-based healthcare and STEM draws, trades-focused rounds, and provincial nominee invitations.
This diversified approach allows Canada to target multiple skill sets simultaneously, balancing economic priorities with demographic needs. The sustained frequency of CEC draws shows a continued push toward retaining workers already inside the country.
What Candidates Should Do Now
Candidates with CRS scores around 531 or higher have strong chances if additional CEC rounds occur before year-end. Those slightly below the threshold should keep profiles updated — especially language results and Canadian work experience, as minor score movements can make a significant difference.
With Canada prioritising the transition from temporary to permanent status, applicants who remain proactive, compliant, and competitive in the pool stand to benefit the most in the coming months.