In its latest round of invites, IRCC on November 25, 2025, issued 777 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under a PNP‑only draw, setting the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) threshold at 699, a considerable 39‑point drop from the previous PNP draw.
The draw reflects a growing emphasis on provincial‑nominee backed immigration pathways, offering hope to skilled immigrants who hold nominations from Canadian provinces or territories but may have previously found the CRS cut-off out of reach.
Draw Details
Invitation Round: #380
Date of Round: November 25, 2025
Type of Draw: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Number of ITAs Issued: 777
CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 699
Tie-Breaking Rule: September 06, 2025, at 01:16:22 UTC
This lowered threshold means that the bar for PNP‑backed candidates has eased a bit, enhancing the chances for those with provincial endorsements but mid‑range CRS scores.
Purpose of PNP Draws
PNP draws are a strategic tool in Canada’s immigration framework, allowing provinces and territories to nominate candidates who meet local labour market and demographic needs.
By prioritising those with provincial endorsements, IRCC ensures that selected candidates are more likely to settle successfully, integrate into local communities, and contribute to regional economies.
These draws also help Canada meet broader immigration targets and maintain a steady flow of skilled workers into the country. PNP-only draws, with variable CRS cut-offs, reflect a demand-driven approach, balancing national immigration objectives with regional workforce requirements.
Implications for PNP Applicants and Canada’s Immigration Landscape
For nominees waiting for an ITA: the drop to 699 is a significant positive; those with valid province nominations but CRS scores previously below older cutoffs now stand a strong chance. Given 777 ITAs issued, many could find their path to permanent residence opened soon.
For new provincial nominees: this draw sends a clear signal: PNP-backed profiles still have high priority and may benefit even if their CRS scores are modest. As 2025 nears its end, IRCC seems to be accelerating invites under PNP rounds to meet broader immigration targets for 2026‑2028.
For Canada’s labour market & provinces: by selecting PNP‑endorsed candidates, provinces gain access to immigrants more likely to settle, work, and integrate locally, helping fill skill gaps and supporting economic growth tailored to regional needs.
2025 Express Entry & PNP Draws Trend
2025 has seen multiple PNP‑targeted draws, with varying CRS cut‑offs depending on demand and province quotas. For example, the draw on November 10 issued 714 ITAs with a cut-off of 738.
The latest reduction in cut‑off to 699 may indicate a shift toward easing entry for provincially‑nominated candidates, possibly reflecting changes in labour demand, pool composition, or broader adjustments based on immigration targets under the upcoming multi‑year plan.
With IRCC reportedly accelerating PNP invitations before year-end, more draws of similar or larger size than this round may be expected soon.
What PNP Applicants Should Do Now
If you have a valid provincial nomination and a CRS around 690–720, consider that your chances have improved. This draw shows IRCC is willing to go well below previous cut‑offs.
Ensure your Express Entry profile is updated: education, language tests, experience, and nomination documentation; any lapse may affect eligibility, especially under tie-breakers.
Stay alert for further draws: given the current momentum, more PNP‑based invitations may come before 2026 begins.
For those still without a nomination: exploring PNP streams now may be a smarter bet than relying solely on general draws or other Express Entry categories, the recent pattern rewards provincial endorsement heavily.