Express Entry
Record-Breaking CEC Express Entry Draw Issues 3,000 ITAs with Lowest-Ever Cut-Off Score of 518
Canada has just taken another major step in welcoming skilled workers through its Express Entry system. IRCC issues 3000 ITAs to Canada Experience Class candidates in the latest CEC Express Entry draw. This news is sending waves of excitement through the immigration community and could signal a turning point for those waiting in the pool.
CEC Express Entry Draw Highlights
On July 8, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw that brought relief and new hope to thousands. Here are the vital details:
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Date: July 8, 2025
- Number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 3,000
- Minimum CRS Score: 518 (lowest since September 2024)
- Profile Creation Deadline: October 2, 2024, 1:48 a.m. UTC
Just one day before, on July 7, there was a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw with 356 ITAs and a much higher CRS cut-off of 750.
Express Entry Draw Summary – 2025
| Date | Draw Type | ITAs | CRS Cut-off |
| July 8 | Canadian Experience Class | 3,000 | 518 |
| July 7 | Provincial Nominee Program | 356 | 750 |
| June 26 | Canadian Experience Class | 3,000 | 521 |
| June 12 | Canadian Experience Class | 3,000 | 529 |
In total, IRCC has issued 45,201 ITAs through Express Entry so far in 2025.
Why the Focus on CEC? New Opportunities for Skilled Workers
Canada’s strategy in 2025 is clear: retain talent already contributing to its economy. By prioritizing Canadian Experience Class draws, IRCC recognizes the value of applicants who have adapted to local work culture and standards. The CEC draw targets skilled workers with at least one year of Canadian work experience. This focus is reflected in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, which aims for over 124,000 new permanent residents via Express Entry this year alone.
The Canadian Experience Class: How to Qualify
The CEC stream is ideal for international students and skilled workers with Canadian job experience. Here’s a quick guide to eligibility:
- Work Experience: Minimum 1 year (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), full-time or equivalent part-time, within the last 3 years
- Language Proficiency:
- CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1
- CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3
- Admissibility: No criminal or medical barriers
- Express Entry Profile: Your CRS score is based on age, education, work history, and language results
Tip: Higher language scores and additional Canadian experience can boost your CRS significantly.
After Receiving an ITA: Your Next Steps
Once you receive that all-important invitation, timing and accuracy are everything. Here’s a checklist to stay on track:
- Accept ITA: Log in and confirm within 60 days
- Documents Needed:
- Valid passport
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
- Educational Credential Assessment (if required)
- Proof of work experience (T4s, pay slips, employer letters)
- Police certificates, medical exam results
- Submit Application: Double-check everything before uploading
- Application Fee: Around CAD 1,365 per adult (2025)
- Monitor Status: Most CEC applications are processed within 6 months
- Landing Process: After approval, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence. If in Canada, you can complete the landing virtually. If abroad, you’ll activate your PR status upon arrival.
The latest CEC Express Entry draws mark a positive turn for skilled workers already living and working in Canada. With 3,000 ITAs issued in the July 2025 CEC draw and a cut-off score dropping to 518, the door is opening wider. If you meet the requirements, now is the time to strengthen your profile especially in language skills and Canadian work experience.
IRCC issues thousands of invitations to CEC candidates, showing that the Canadian Experience Class is the strongest pathway for skilled immigrants in 2025. Stay tuned with Canada Immigration News for real-time news, tips, and updates to help you reach your Canadian dream.
