Express Entry: IRCC Invites More Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidates in Latest Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held another round of invitations under the Express Entry system, focusing on candidates from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Key Highlights of the July 21, 2025 Draw:

• Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 202
• Minimum CRS Score Required: 788
• Eligibility Cut-Off: Profiles must have been submitted before June 5, 2025 at 11:50 p.m. (UTC)
  
  

This marks the third Express Entry draw in July 2025, following a CEC draw on July 8 and another PNP draw on July 7.

Express Entry Draw Trends in 2025

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 45,403 ITAs across multiple categories. The focus has remained largely on candidates in the PNP, with consistent draws also targeting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), French-speaking candidates, and those in priority occupation categories such as healthcare, education, and skilled trades.

Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025:

Breakdown of Draw Types in 2025

IRCC has been following a pattern of alternating PNP and CEC draws nearly every two weeks.

Is 40 Too Old to Apply Under Express Entry?

Age affects your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry. Candidates aged 20–29 get the highest score (110 points for age). However, the score declines gradually with age, reaching 0 points at age 45.

For instance:

• At age 40, you receive 50 points
• At age 45 or older, you receive 0 points
  
  

Still, candidates over 40 have two strong options:

1. Category-Based Draws

These are designed for candidates with in-demand skills, work experience, or language abilities. The lowest CRS cut-off for category-based draws in 2025 has been as low as 379, compared to over 520 in standard CEC draws.

IRCC currently operates six specialized categories, focusing on:

• Healthcare
• STEM
• Skilled trades
• Transportation
• Agriculture
• French-language proficiency
  
  

This helps lower CRS cut-offs for eligible applicants with relevant backgrounds.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

PNPs remain one of the best strategies for candidates over 40. Every province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) offers nomination pathways aligned with Express Entry. If nominated under an Express Entry stream, you gain 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw.

Need Help Understanding Your Options?

If you're over 40 and exploring Express Entry, category-based draws and provincial nominations could significantly improve your chances of permanent residency in Canada.