IRCC Conducts Express Entry Draw For Canadian Experience Class Candidates, Issuing 1,000 ITAs

In a significant step toward addressing Canada’s labor market needs, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw on September 3, 2025, specifically targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This draw issued 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence, further emphasizing Canada’s commitment to retaining skilled workers with Canadian work experience.

Key Details of the September 3, 2025 Draw

The latest draw saw 1,000 ITAs issued to CEC candidates, with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cutoff of 534. This score determines eligibility based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. Notably, the tie-breaking rule applied to this draw, meaning only those who submitted their Express Entry profiles before August 14, 2025, at 08:28:38 UTC, were considered if they had a CRS score of 534.

Recipients of ITAs now have 60 days to submit their applications for permanent residency. This timeframe is critical, as failure to meet the deadline may result in the ITA being invalidated.

Eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class

To qualify for the CEC, applicants must have accumulated at least one year of skilled, paid work experience in Canada within the past three years. This experience must be in an occupation classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3. Additionally, candidates must have a valid Express Entry profile to be considered for an ITA.

Express Entry Trends in 2025

The September 3 draw aligns with IRCC’s strategy in 2025 of conducting targeted Express Entry draws. So far this year, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws have been the most frequent, with 16 rounds, followed by CEC draws at 8 rounds. Other notable targeted draws have focused on French-language proficiency and healthcare/social services sectors.

Recent draws include:

This approach underscores Canada’s strategic focus on attracting and retaining immigrants who can address specific labor market needs, particularly in high-demand sectors and regional economies.

Looking Ahead

While Express Entry draws are typically held every two weeks, IRCC may adjust the schedule based on its strategic priorities. Prospective immigrants are advised to stay informed about draw trends and actively work on improving their CRS scores to enhance their chances in future rounds.

Summary

The September 3, 2025 CEC Express Entry draw continues Canada’s focus on skilled workers with Canadian experience, requiring a CRS score of at least 534 and inviting 1,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency. This draw reflects IRCC’s tailored approach to economic immigration, aligning with the country’s labor market priorities and regional needs.

How to Improve CRS for Future Draws

For candidates aiming to enhance their chances in upcoming Express Entry draws, there are several strategies to improve their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. These include:

• Enhancing language proficiency scores: Candidates can improve their English or French language test results, such as IELTS or TEF, to gain more points.
• Gaining more Canadian work experience: Acquiring additional skilled work experience in Canada can significantly boost CRS scores.
• Pursuing further education in Canada: Completing further education in Canada can provide additional points under the education section of the CRS.
• Applying to Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams: Receiving a provincial nomination grants candidates an additional 600 CRS points, drastically improving their chances of receiving an ITA.

Express Entry Trends in 2025

The September 3 draw for the CEC follows IRCC’s pattern in 2025 of using targeted draws focused on specific categories:

• Provincial Nominee Program draws have been the most frequent (16 rounds), followed by Canadian Experience Class (8 rounds).
• Other targeted draws included French-language proficiency and healthcare/social services.

This strategy highlights Canada’s focus on:

• Attracting immigrants with local work experience who are expected to integrate more successfully.
• Responding to regional labor market needs via the PNP.
• Supporting high-demand sectors and retaining talent already adapted to work and life in Canada.

Looking Ahead

Express Entry draws are generally held about every two weeks, but the timing can vary depending on IRCC strategy. The next draw is anticipated around September 17, 2025, if this pattern continues. Staying informed about draw trends and maintaining a high CRS are crucial for prospective immigrants.

Summary

The September 3, 2025 CEC Express Entry draw continued Canada’s focus on skilled workers with Canadian experience, requiring a CRS score of at least 534 and inviting 1,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency. This draw, part of a series of targeted rounds in 2025, is emblematic of IRCC’s tailored approach to economic immigration and labor market priorities.

Conclusion

The September 3, 2025 Express Entry draw for the Canadian Experience Class highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting and retaining skilled workers with Canadian work experience. By issuing 1,000 ITAs with a CRS score cutoff of 534, IRCC continues to prioritize candidates who are well-integrated into the Canadian labor market. This draw aligns with broader trends in 2025, emphasizing targeted immigration strategies to address specific economic and regional needs. Prospective immigrants are encouraged to stay informed about draw trends, improve their CRS scores, and explore additional pathways such as provincial nominations to enhance their chances in future rounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was the CRS cutoff for the September 3, 2025 CEC draw?

The CRS cutoff for the September 3, 2025 Canadian Experience Class draw was 534.

How many ITAs were issued in the September 3, 2025 draw?

IRCC issued 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the September 3, 2025 CEC draw.

What is the tie-breaking rule for this draw?

Candidates who submitted their Express Entry profiles before August 14, 2025, at 08:28:38 UTC, were prioritized if they had a CRS score of 534.

What happens after receiving an ITA?

Recipients of ITAs have 60 days to submit their complete application for permanent residency. Failing to meet this deadline may result in the ITA being invalidated.

How can I check if I am eligible for the Canadian Experience Class?

To be eligible for the CEC, you must have at least one year of skilled, paid work experience in Canada within the past three years in an occupation classified under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3, and have a valid Express Entry profile.

How can I improve my CRS score for future draws?

You can improve your CRS score by enhancing language test results, gaining more Canadian work experience, pursuing further education in Canada, or obtaining a provincial nomination, which awards 600 CRS points.

When is the next Express Entry draw expected?

Express Entry draws are typically held every two weeks, so the next draw is anticipated around September 17, 2025, depending on IRCC’s strategic priorities.