Express Entry: 4,500 Candidates Invited in Third Draw of the Week
In a significant move to address labor market needs and promote bilingualism, Canada conducted its third Express Entry draw of September 2025 on September 4. This draw invited 4,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence, specifically targeting those with strong French language proficiency.
Overview of the Draw
The September 4 draw issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 446 or higher. This marks the largest draw of the week, both in size and linguistic focus, underscoring Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled Francophone immigrants.
Recent Express Entry Activity
Earlier this week, two other Express Entry draws took place. On September 3, 1,000 ITAs were issued through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), with a higher CRS cutoff of 534. A day earlier, on September 2, 249 ITAs were issued via the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), requiring a minimum CRS score of 772.
Ontario also made headlines by issuing 1,893 invitations through its provincial program on September 3, targeting foreign workers and international students.
Canada’s Focus on Francophone Immigration
This draw highlights Canada’s strategic approach to immigration. By prioritizing French language proficiency, the government aims to strengthen bilingual communities and integrate skilled Francophone workers into the labor market. This aligns with Canada’s broader goal of promoting linguistic diversity and addressing regional labor shortages.
What’s Next for Invited Candidates?
Candidates who received an ITA in this draw must act promptly. They have 60 days to accept the invitation, submit their application for permanent residency, and pay the required fees. The application process includes providing documents such as language test results, educational credentials, and medical exam results.
Once approved, candidates will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), which they must activate by entering Canada if they are abroad. Those already in the country can complete the process virtually.
Strategic Insights for Future Applicants
Improving French language skills can significantly boost a candidate’s chances of receiving an ITA in future targeted draws. Additionally, gaining Canadian work experience or securing a provincial nomination can enhance CRS scores, increasing competitiveness in the Express Entry pool.
Canada’s Immigration Outlook
This draw reinforces Canada’s reliance on targeted Express Entry rounds to meet specific policy objectives. The increasing focus on French-speaking candidates reflects a broader effort to strengthen bilingual communities and support regional economic growth.
The frequency and size of recent draws also highlight Canada’s high demand for skilled immigrants, particularly those who can contribute to the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
Source: CIC News
Comprehensive Guide for Invited Candidates and Strategic Immigration Insights
Detailed Steps for Invited Candidates
Candidates who received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the September 4 draw must adhere to the following steps to successfully proceed with their application for permanent residency:
- Accept the Invitation: Candidates must log into their Express Entry profile and accept the invitation within the 60-day deadline.
- Submit Application: Prepare and submit the online application for permanent residency, ensuring all required documents are included. These include language test results, educational credentials, reference letters, police clearance certificates, and medical exam results.
- Pay Fees: The application fee is approximately CAD 1,365 per adult (as of 2025). Ensure timely payment to avoid delays in processing.
- Track Application: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to process applications within six months. Candidates are advised to regularly monitor their application status online.
- Prepare for Landing: Once approved, candidates will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). If residing outside Canada, they must enter the country to activate their permanent residency status. Those already in Canada can complete the process virtually.
Strategic Insights for Future Applicants
Prospective applicants can enhance their chances of success in future Express Entry draws by considering the following strategies:
- Improving French Proficiency: Given the increasing focus on French-speaking candidates, enhancing French language skills can significantly improve eligibility for targeted draws.
- Boosting CRS Score: Candidates can increase their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by gaining Canadian work experience or securing a provincial nomination, both of which are highly valued in the Express Entry system.
Canada’s Immigration Outlook and Policy Objectives
This draw underscores Canada’s strategic use of targeted Express Entry rounds to achieve specific policy goals and address labor market needs. The prioritization of French-speaking candidates aligns with the country’s efforts to strengthen bilingual communities and support regional economic growth.
The frequency and size of recent draws highlight Canada’s high demand for skilled immigrants, particularly those who can contribute to the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity. This approach is expected to continue, with a focus on attracting skilled workers who can integrate into Canada’s labor market and enrich its multicultural fabric.
Source: CIC News
Conclusion
Canada’s third Express Entry draw of September 2025 underscores the country’s strategic approach to immigration, with a strong emphasis on attracting French-speaking candidates to strengthen bilingual communities. By issuing 4,500 ITAs, this draw highlights the government’s commitment to addressing labor market needs and promoting linguistic diversity. Candidates who received an ITA must act swiftly to complete their application process, while future applicants can improve their chances by enhancing their French proficiency and boosting their CRS scores. As Canada continues to rely on targeted Express Entry draws, the focus on skilled, bilingual immigrants is expected to remain a key pillar of its immigration policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Express Entry system?
The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for selecting skilled immigrants to meet labor market needs. It manages applications for permanent residence through three main programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
How do I apply for Express Entry?
To apply, create an online profile, provide required documents (language test results, educational credentials, etc.), and enter the Express Entry pool. If selected, you will receive an ITA to apply for permanent residence.
Why is Canada focusing on French-speaking candidates?
Canada aims to strengthen bilingual communities and address regional labor shortages by prioritizing French-speaking candidates. This aligns with its goal of promoting linguistic diversity and supporting economic growth.
How long does it take to process Express Entry applications?
IRCC typically processes Express Entry applications within six months. Candidates can monitor their application status online and should prepare to activate their permanent residency upon approval.
How can I improve my CRS score?
Enhance your CRS score by improving French language skills, gaining Canadian work experience, or securing a provincial nomination. These factors are highly valued in the Express Entry system.
